Average Realtor Commission in Fairfax, Fairfax County – What Sellers Should Know

Are you a homeowner in Fairfax, Fairfax County, Virginia thinking about selling your home? You’re in the right place! In this post, we’ll break down exactly what to expect—from Realtor commissions to closing costs—and show how our 1.5% full-service program can potentially save you thousands of dollars. Let’s dive in.

Why Understanding Commissions Matters in Fairfax

Fairfax County isn’t just any housing market. With its strong job base, proximity to Washington, D.C., and consistently high buyer demand, homes here often sell quickly—but that doesn’t mean you should overlook the costs involved. Realtor commission is typically the single largest selling expense you’ll face. Understanding how commissions work and how to reduce them can make a major difference in your net proceeds.

Typical Realtor Commission in Fairfax County

When selling a home in Fairfax, Realtor commission usually falls between 5% and 6% of the final sale price. This amount is typically split between:

• Listing agent – The agent who markets and sells your home (about 2.5%–3%).
• Buyer’s agent – The agent who brings the buyer (about 2.5%–3%).

For perspective:

• Virginia average commission: Around 5.35% total — about 2.59% to the listing agent and 2.76% to the buyer’s agent.
• On a $600,000 home: Commission alone can reach $30,000 in traditional setups.

The Full Picture — Costs Beyond Commission

Many sellers focus on commission but forget there are other costs at closing. In Fairfax County, you should also budget for:

• Transfer taxes – 0.25% of the sale price (includes Virginia’s state grantor’s tax and WMATA regional transportation fee).
• Title insurance – Protects the buyer and lender against legal claims on the property.
• Recording fees – Charged by the county to update ownership records.
• Prorated property taxes and HOA dues – Based on your closing date.

These additional expenses often total 2%–4% of your home’s sale price. That means your overall selling costs—commission + other fees—can reach 7%–9% of the sale price.

Example on a $600,000 home:

• Commission: $30,000 (at 5%)
• Other closing costs: $12,000–$24,000
• Total cost: $42,000–$54,000

Why Commission Rates Vary — and How to Reduce Them

Realtor commission rates aren’t fixed. They can vary based on:

• Market conditions – In a strong seller’s market, agents may be more open to reducing their rate.
• Property value – High-value properties can sometimes be listed for a lower percentage.
• Repeat clients – Some agents offer loyalty discounts.
• Service models – Full-service discount brokerages, like our 1.5% program, reduce your listing-side commission without sacrificing service.

Our 1.5% Full-Service Program — How It Works

We believe sellers deserve professional marketing, skilled negotiation, and full transaction management—without paying a premium. That’s why we offer a 1.5% listing agent fee.

You’ll still get:

• Professional photography and video tours
• MLS listing + premium online marketing
• Open houses and private showings
• Negotiation and contract management
• Guidance through inspections and closing

FAQs – Realtor Commission in Fairfax, Fairfax County Virginia

• What’s the average Realtor commission in Fairfax County?
  Typically 5%–6% of the home’s sale price, split between listing and buyer’s agents. On a $600,000 home, that’s around $30,000 total.
• Is Realtor commission negotiable in Virginia?
  Yes. Commission rates are not set by law and can be negotiated based on market conditions, property type, and the services offered. Our 1.5% program is one example of a reduced-rate option.
• Besides commission, what other selling costs should I expect?
  Plan for 2%–4% of your sale price in transfer taxes, title fees, recording charges, and prorated property taxes.