Published January 6, 2026
Understanding Real Estate Commissions - The Truth for Minnesota Buyers and Sellers
There's a lot of misleading information circulating about real estate commissions, and as your trusted Wright County and Sherburne County real estate experts, we want to set the record straight for Elk River, St. Cloud, and Minnesota homebuyers and sellers.
Debunking the Myths
First, there has never been a "standard" 6% commission in real estate. This is false. Commissions have always been negotiable and vary based on experience, services offered, and market conditions. We've seen commissions range from as low as 4% to over 7% depending on the complexity of the transaction.
What's Changed?
Recent industry changes mean buyer agent commissions are no longer disclosed on the MLS. However, buyer representation hasn't gone away—it's simply negotiated differently. Commissions can now be negotiated into the purchase agreement or arranged directly between brokerages.
Why This Matters
Previously, all parties could pay for their representation at closing rather than out-of-pocket, making homeownership more accessible. This structure is still possible—it's just discussed differently now. As licensed Realtors serving Hennepin County, Stearns County, and beyond, we ensure our clients understand their options upfront.
Trust Your Real Estate Professional
Real estate is one of life's biggest purchases. Most people make only 3-4 real estate transactions in their lifetime. Don't rely on sensationalized headlines—reach out to experienced agents with questions. The New Doors New Beginnings team is committed to transparency, collaboration, and putting our clients first.
We're prepared for the future and ready to leverage our tools and knowledge to serve you.