Roth: Great answer!

Digger: Regarding "averages..." Who wants an "average" Realtor?

Good luck!

Digger:
Both of these responses are accurate and I am sure you feel it doesn't help you much. Because of laws against "price fixing", "collusion", and "anti-competitive practices" licensed real estate agents have to dance around your question. Luckily, I don't have to.

According to the National Association of Realtors in a letter to 60 Minutes on May 17, 2007:

* * *All real estate commissions are negotiable and the average is 5.1 percent, according to the most recent available data. * * *

But as Patti said, "Anchorage may differ quite markedly." You also may see marked differences in commission percentages for land verses homes and possibly between $100,000 properties verses $10,000,000 properties. I have HEARD that "standard commission" for land is 10%. I've never bought or sold land but I personally do not think that is "reasonable". However, if 19 out of 20 parcels of land are listed in my local MLS (Multiple Listing Service) with a 50% commission split showing 5.5% for the buyer's agent, I would be a fool not to agree to 11% commission so that half of the listing agent's commission can go to the buyer's agent.

So, do as Patti suggested. If the majority are saying 5%, than 5% would be reasonable. The next step is to make sure you know what your are getting for that 5% and WHO is getting it. If the MLS has 19 out of 20 homes showing 2.5% commission shared (co-broke) and your listing is for 5%, you will be at a disadvantage if your agent only shares 2.0%.

Good luck. I'd like to know what you find out. Is everything in Anchorage more expensive?
Ruth

What you think is reasonable may not be what is considered "standard".

Although commissions are sometimes negotiable, most areas have standard commissions that Realtors charge. For example, Anchorage may differ quite markedly from Chicago, where I practice.

If you want to know what is standard, make some phone calls to local brokerages and/or ask friends how have used Realtors. Then, decide if that is "reasonable" to you. If not, find an agent who is willing to negotiate.

Keep in mind - some won't. There are so many hidden costs involved in marketing a home, not to mention that the final commission an agent is left with after splitting cost with a co-broker, his broker, paying taxes, board fees and MLS fees, is often far less than what you think an agents end up with.

Some agents feel their service is worth every penny. And many clients agree.