Questions

Should ONLY buyers pay? Sellers? Split? At what ratio? Should brokers ONLY get a percentage or are flat fees (either as a standalone cost or ON TOP of the percentage cut? Are they even NEEDED?

Real estate

Commercial sellers / property managers: Brokers specialize in arranging transactions for offices, retail spaces, and industrial buildings.

Finance & securities

These professionals charge higher fees, often a percentage of assets under management, in exchange for a wide range of services.

Insurance.

Commissions: Brokers typically earn a commission paid by the insurance company as a percentage of the policy's premium. They may also earn a smaller "renewal commission" when the policy is renewed.

Broker fees: In addition to or in place of a commission, a broker may charge a fee directly to the client for their advisory or administrative services

Business and mergers and acquisitions

Brokers commonly charge a commission of 10% to 12% on smaller deals, with the percentage decreasing on larger transactions.

Retainers: For larger M&A deals, advisors often charge an upfront retainer fee in addition to a success fee paid at closing.

Mortgages.

Lender-paid compensation: In most cases, the lender pays the broker a commission, which may result in the borrower paying a slightly higher interest rate. Some pay borrower directly, typically 1% to 2% of the total loan amount, usually paid at closing.

Shipping and logistics.

Commission: A freight broker's compensation is typically a percentage of the difference between what the shipper pays and what the carrier charges or flat fee. This can range from 10% to 25% depending on the load.

Customs.

Transaction fees: For each entry or declaration, customs brokers charge a service fee, which can be a flat rate or based on a percentage of the goods' value.

Luxury goods

Art brokers: Facilitate the buying and selling of art and charge a commission or fee based on the transaction.

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