Jan. 1, 2006 - My Agent says there IS a miniumum fee to list my house?

As I have indicated in another post, there is no standard fee. 

 All commissions are negotiable by law.  But that does not mean that each Company/Broker and each agent therein cannot set a minimum fee for themselves.  Some Companies have a minimum fee and have set a policy that none of their agents can do business for less than that amount.  It is their right to set policies that will insure their business is strong and profitable. 

At Sound Realty we do not charge agents based on what they charge consumers.  Consequently, we do not impose any restrictions on our agents with regard to their ability to negotiate commissions with consumers. 

It is important for you to know if you are negotiating for a Full Service Discount, or if you are negotiating for a Limited Service Discount.  Most limited service options are presented as flat fees, while most full service discounts are presented as percentages of sale price, but be sure to note this distinction with your agent at the time the fee is set in the listing contract.

From what I have seen, owners who choose the deepest discounts offer a full service fee for the buyer's representation, but not for themselves. 

 Be careful not to shortchange yourself in that regard.