Commission is often one of the final questions sellers ask — not because it's unimportant, but because by this stage, sellers are deciding who they trust to manage risk and execute properly.
At Graham Real Estate, we believe commission should be understood in terms of outcomes, protection, and execution, not just percentage.
The Short Answer
Commission compensates for strategy, execution, negotiation, and risk management throughout the entire selling process — not just marketing exposure. What matters most is not the fee itself, but what mistakes are avoided and what outcomes are protected.
How Our Commission Is Structured
Commission is typically calculated as a percentage of the final sale price and is shared between the listing brokerage and the buyer's brokerage. The exact structure is reviewed clearly and transparently before listing.
More important than the structure is what is included and how actively it is managed throughout the sale.
What You're Actually Paying For
Our role extends far beyond putting a home on MLS®. Sellers are paying for:
- Accurate pricing and positioning strategy
- Ongoing market monitoring and repositioning oversight
- Buyer psychology analysis and negotiation management
- Handling subject conditions, timelines, and risk points
- Coordination with legal, financing, and conveyancing professionals
- Clear communication and decision support from listing to completion
Most costly mistakes in a sale happen after an offer arrives — not before.
Why Commission Isn't Just About Marketing
Marketing creates interest. Execution converts it into results. Many listings fail or underperform due to:
- Overpricing without a correction plan
- Poor negotiation during conditional periods
- Missed signals from buyer feedback
- Weak handling of subject removals or deadlines
- Reactive decision-making under pressure
Lower Commission vs. Better Outcome
A lower commission does not automatically mean a better net result. In practice, outcomes are often affected more by pricing accuracy, negotiation strength, risk management during conditions, time on market and momentum, and avoided price reductions.
A stronger outcome at a slightly higher fee often results in more money in your pocket, not less.
What This Means for You as a Seller
The right question isn't "What do you charge?" — it's "What risks are being managed, and what outcomes are being protected?"
When commission is evaluated through that lens, the conversation becomes much clearer.
Local Market Context & Advisory Note
Commission structures and service levels vary by market and property type. This guidance reflects current Central Okanagan norms and should always be reviewed in the context of your specific property, goals, and timing.