Question 1

What is the typical real estate commission in Hawaii?

Accepted Answer

Hawaii real estate commissions typically range from 2.5% to 6% of the sale price, split between the listing agent and buyer's agent. The exact rate varies by island, price range, brokerage, and negotiation. Koho tracks actual reported rates from thousands of Hawaii closings.

Question 2

Who pays the real estate commission in Hawaii?

Accepted Answer

Traditionally, the seller pays both the listing agent and buyer's agent commissions from sale proceeds. Under the August 2024 NAR settlement, buyer-agent compensation is now negotiated separately and disclosed upfront. Sellers are no longer required to offer buyer-agent compensation through the MLS.

Question 3

Have real estate commissions changed after the NAR settlement?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The August 2024 NAR settlement decoupled buyer-agent and seller-agent compensation. Buyers must now have a written buyer's representation agreement before touring homes. Sellers no longer need to offer buyer-agent compensation through MLS, increasing transparency and in many cases lowering total commission costs.

Question 4

Are Hawaii real estate commissions negotiable?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Real estate commissions in Hawaii are fully negotiable. There is no fixed or standard rate. Koho's commission data shows the range of rates actually paid across different islands, price ranges, and brokerages. Real benchmarks to negotiate from.