Intro:

Ever wonder how REALTORS® actually make money — and how much of that “commission check” they actually keep? Around Columbus, it’s one of the most common (and misunderstood) questions I get. Let’s peel back the curtain on where the money really goes once a home sells.

1. Commissions Are Split Several Ways

Say a $500,000 home sells with a 6% total commission — that’s $30,000. Sounds big, right? But here’s the breakdown: half usually goes to the buyer’s agent, half to the listing agent, and each of those agents splits their share with their brokerage. In the end, most agents keep only about 35–50% of that total.

2. Brokerages Provide the Legal & Marketing Backbone

Every REALTOR® works under a brokerage — it’s required by law. The brokerage provides compliance oversight, marketing platforms, and back-end support. That’s why agents share a portion of their earnings — it’s the cost of running a legitimate, professional business.

3. Expenses Eat a Chunk of Every Check

Signs, photos, drone videos, lockboxes, MLS fees, licensing, insurance, client gifts, gas, and countless Starbucks runs — they all come out of pocket. It’s not uncommon for full-time agents in Powell or Dublin to reinvest 20–30% of their income back into their business.

4. The Best Agents Focus on Volume, Not Just Price

High-end deals in Dublin or New Albany are great, but consistency is king. Top agents thrive by closing steady volume — blending mid-range transactions with occasional luxury listings to build predictable income.

5. Passion and Persistence Trump Paychecks

The best REALTORS® aren’t chasing the biggest commission — they’re chasing client satisfaction. Build relationships, deliver results, and the income takes care of itself. That’s how careers — not just closings — are built.

CTA:

👉 Thinking about entering the real estate market, or just curious what it takes to make it in Columbus real estate? Let’s chat — I’ll give you the real numbers and what life as a full-time REALTOR® actually looks like.

[Contact Patrick Murphy, REALTOR® — Columbus, Powell & Dublin Expert]