Who Pays the Buyer's Agent in Las Vegas?

In Las Vegas, the buyer's agent can be paid by the seller, the builder, the buyer, or a mix. Your written buyer agreement sets the amount, and fees are fully negotiable and not set by law. Sellers can still agree to pay it, but since August 17, 2024, those offers can no longer be posted on the MLS.

I'm Ryan Rose | Real Broker, LLC, a Las Vegas buyer's agent. Buyers ask me this before almost anything else, so here is how payment really works today.

What Changed After the NAR Settlement?

NAR's practice changes took effect on August 17, 2024. Two of them matter most to buyers.

First, offers of pay for buyer's agents are no longer allowed on MLS listings. NAR says sellers can still offer that pay outside the MLS. Sellers can also offer buyer concessions on the MLS, such as help with closing costs.

Second, agents who use the MLS must sign a written agreement with you before touring a home. That agreement must state the agent's pay as a set amount or rate. It must also bar the agent from collecting more than that from any source.

So Who Actually Pays the Buyer's Agent?

It is worked out deal by deal. Here are the common ways it goes on a resale home:

• The seller pays. Some sellers agree to it up front. Others agree when your offer asks for it.
• The buyer pays. If the seller will not cover it, your agreement says what you owe.
• A split. The seller covers part and you cover the rest.

Your agent should find out early what a seller is willing to do. That way you know your full cost before you write an offer. And if you pay part of it, ask your lender how that affects the cash you need at closing.

Who Pays the Buyer's Agent on New Construction?

Builders typically pay the buyer's agent, so working with Ryan usually costs the buyer nothing extra.

One tip matters a lot here. Many builders want your agent with you on your first visit, or registered before it. Bring your agent from the start, or call before you walk into a sales office.

How Can a Buyer Plan for This?

Talk about the fee on the first call, before any tour. Ask your agent to explain the agreement line by line. Then decide together how your offers will ask the seller to handle it.

I lay this out for every buyer before we see a single home, so you are never guessing. If you want to talk it through, contact Ryan Rose or call 702-747-5921.

Quick Answers

Do sellers in Las Vegas still pay buyer's agents?

Many still can, and it is negotiable. The offer just cannot be posted on the MLS.

Can I ask the seller to pay my agent in my offer?

Yes. Your offer can ask the seller to cover it, and the seller can say yes, no, or counter.

What is a typical buyer's agent fee in Las Vegas?

There is no set rate. Fees are negotiable and not set by law, so compare what each agent offers.

Is this tax or lending advice?

No. Ask your lender how agent fees affect your loan, and ask a CPA about any tax questions.

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Source: NAR: What the NAR Settlement Means for Home Buyers and Sellers, NRS Chapter 645