Commission Calculator
Enter a sale amount and commission rate to see the commission owed and the net amount to the seller.
Calculator verified • Last updated: August 2026
Sale Details
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How Commission Is Calculated
Commission is simply a percentage of the sale amount, paid to the agent or salesperson who facilitated the transaction. Enter the total sale price and the agreed commission rate, and the calculator shows both the commission itself and what's left over for the seller.
Commission = Sale Amount x Rate
Worked Example
On a home sale of 300,000 dollars at a 6% commission rate, the total commission comes to 18,000 dollars, leaving the seller with a net amount of 282,000 dollars. If that commission is split evenly between the listing agent and the buyer's agent, each side's share (before any brokerage cut) works out to 9,000 dollars.
Real Estate Commission vs. Sales Commission
The same math applies whether the "sale amount" is a home, a car, or a retail transaction with a commissioned salesperson — only the typical rate differs. Real estate commissions commonly run in the 5-6% range and are usually split between two agents and their brokerages; retail and other sales commissions vary widely by industry and role, sometimes just a percentage or two, sometimes tiered based on volume.
Common Commission Mistakes
Assuming the full commission rate goes to a single agent is a common misunderstanding — in real estate specifically, the total is usually split at least once between the listing and buyer's agents, and often again between each agent and their brokerage. Forgetting that commission is calculated on the full sale amount, not the seller's equity or profit, also leads to surprises when the net proceeds are lower than expected.
Commission Terms You Should Know
Commission Rate — the percentage of the sale amount paid as commission, agreed upon before the transaction.
Net Proceeds — what remains after commission (and often other closing costs) are subtracted from the sale amount.
Split Commission — a commission divided between two or more parties, such as a listing agent and a buyer's agent, or an agent and their brokerage.
This calculator provides estimates for educational and planning purposes only. "Net Amount to Seller" subtracts commission only and does not include other closing costs, prorations, or a mortgage payoff — actual net proceeds will vary. Consult a qualified real estate professional or financial advisor for guidance specific to your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who typically pays real estate commission?
Historically the seller paid commission out of the sale proceeds, splitting it between their own agent and the buyer's agent. Commission structures have been shifting in some markets, so always confirm who's responsible for what in your specific listing or buyer agreement.
How do I calculate my share of a split commission?
Take the total commission and multiply it by your agreed share percentage — for example, a 50/50 split between two agents means each takes 50% of the total commission amount, before any brokerage cut is taken out on top of that.
Is commission negotiable?
In most markets, yes — commission rates are not fixed by law and can be negotiated between the seller and their agent. Typical rates vary by region and by the services included, so it's reasonable to discuss the rate before signing an agreement.
Does my displayed share already account for my brokerage's cut?
Not unless you enter it — use the optional Brokerage's Cut of Your Share field to see your actual take-home after your brokerage's percentage is taken out on top of the agent split. Without it, "Your Share" only reflects the agent-to-agent split, not what you personally keep.
Is Net Amount to Seller the seller's true walk-away cash?
No — it only subtracts commission from the sale amount. It doesn't include other closing costs such as transfer taxes, title fees, prorated property taxes, or a remaining mortgage payoff, all of which further reduce what a seller actually walks away with.