Buying or selling your home is a big deal.
Your realtor is doing all they can to help you through the process.
And when it is finally time to close the deal, you may have a sense of joy and want to extend that appreciation by giving your realtor a tip.
But is that really necessary? Are they expecting it?
Here are a few things to consider when making the decision to tip your realtor.
Should You Tip Your Realtor?
NO – Realtors are not expecting to be tipped.
While a kind gesture, it is not necessary or expected that you give your realtor a tip.
Think of it this way – would you tip your doctor, lawyer, or financial advisor? Probably not.
Your realtor is a professional who is being paid for their services.
YES – If you feel like your realtor truly went above and beyond, a tip is a nice way to show your appreciation.
If you feel like your realtor did an exceptional job and went above and beyond what was expected, then a tip is a nice way to show your appreciation.
For example, if they helped you sell your home in a short amount of time or found you the perfect home even though it was outside of your initial budget, a tip would be a nice way to say thank you.
Bottom line – it is completely up to you whether or not you want to tip your realtor.
If you do decide to give a tip, make sure it is in addition to any agreed-upon commission.
Your realtor will be just as happy with a handwritten thank you note expressing your appreciation.
Your Realtor Is Already Getting Paid
While you may feel the urge to tip your realtor for all their hard work, it’s important to remember that they are already being paid for their services.
Realtors typically earn a commission based on the sale of the home – usually 5-6% of the final sale price.
So, if you’re selling your home for $200,000, your realtor’s commission would be $10,000-$12,000.
On the other hand, if you’re buying a home, your realtor’s commission will be paid by the seller.
This is why you may hear people say that buyers don’t need to use a realtor – because they are not paying the commission.
However, using a realtor can save you a lot of time, stress, and money in the long run.
And, if you do decide to use a realtor, it is still important to remember that they are being paid for their services.
Should I Bring a Gift for My Realtor at Closing?
This is also completely up to you and is not expected.
If you do decide to give a gift, make sure it is something that your realtor will actually use and appreciate.
A nice bottle of wine or a gift card to a local restaurant or spa would be a thoughtful gesture.
A simple thank you note expressing your appreciation is also a nice gesture.
The bottom line is that you should not feel obligated to give a tip or gift to your realtor.
The bottom line is that you should not feel obligated to tip your realtor or give them a gift at closing.
While it is a nice gesture, it is not expected or necessary.
What Do I Get My Realtor as a Thank You Gift?
If you decide to give your realtor a gift as a thank you, make sure it is something that they will actually use and appreciate.
A nice bottle of wine or a gift card to a local restaurant or spa would be thoughtful gifts.
A simple thank you note expressing your appreciation is also always appreciated.
Do Realtors Give Closing Gifts to Buyers?
It is not uncommon for realtors to give their clients a closing gift, but it is not expected or required.
If your realtor does give you a gift, it is usually something small like a bottle of wine or a gift card to a local restaurant.
Again, while it is a nice gesture, you should not feel obligated to reciprocate.
What kind of gifts do you receive most often from clients?
Here is a list of some gift ideas that your clients may enjoy:
- Gift cards to local restaurants or cafes
- Tickets to a show or a nearby attraction
- A basket of local goodies such as wine, cheese, fruit, etc.
- A gift certificate for a massage or other spa treatment
- Custom Tote Bag
- Travel Mug
- Water Bottle
- Real Estate-Themed T-Shirt
- Starbucks Gift Card
- Gas Card
- Beauty/Self-Care Gift Card
- Wine
- Cutting Board
- Plants
- Treats
- Referrals/Reviews
The best gift you can give your realtor is a referral or a positive review.
If you had a positive experience working with your realtor, letting others know about it is the best way to show your appreciation.
You can leave a positive review on their website, Google, or social media.
You can also tell your friends and family about your experience and recommend that they use your realtor if they are buying or selling a home.
What are the legal and professional regulations regarding accepting a gift from a client by a real estate agent?
There are no legal or professional regulations regarding gifts from clients, but it is always appreciated if the gift is something that the agent can use.
It is also important to be aware of any company policies regarding gifts and commissions.
Some companies may have policies that state that agents cannot accept gifts over a certain value or that agents must declare any gifts
What would be an inappropriate ‘thank you’ gift to give a realtor?
- Some inappropriate gifts to give a realtor include:
- Gifts that are too personal such as clothing or jewelry
- Gifts that are overly expensive
- Gifts that are not related to the business such as tickets to a sporting event
How can I show appreciation to my realtor without giving a gift?
There are many ways to show appreciation to your realtor without giving a gift.
A simple thank you note is always appreciated.
You can also write a positive review or refer your realtor to your friends and family.
Final Thoughts
While tipping your realtor is not necessary, it is a nice way to show your appreciation if you feel like they went above and beyond.
If you decide to give a tip, make sure it is in addition to any agreed-upon commission and that it is something that your realtor will actually use and appreciate.
A simple thank you note expressing your appreciation is also a nice gesture.
