Answers by Macayla Callison

That’s not offensive at all — it’s a fair question. Real estate commissions are negotiable, and it’s completely reasonable to have a conversation about compensation. That said, I always encourage clients to look at value, not just cost. A strong agent can often net you more money (as a seller) or negotiate better terms (as a buyer), which can more than make up for the commission difference. The best approach is open communication. A good agent won’t be offended by a respectful conversation — they’ll explain what services, marketing, negotiation strategy, and experience they bring to the table so you can decide what makes the most sense for you. At the end of the day, you want someone who’s aligned with your goals and fully invested in getting you the best outcome.