Is listing the same as selling?

No, but it’s easy to get confused. In a real estate transaction, the listing agent represents the home seller and helps put the property on the market, while the selling agent (also called the buyer’s agent) represents the prospective buyer. Think of it this way: the listing agent lists the property; the selling agent brings in the buyer. Most real estate agents are licensed to serve in either role, but in any given home sale, they usually represent only one party.

Is it better to be a listing agent or a buyer's agent?

It depends on your personality, market experience, and goals. Listing agents typically manage fewer clients at once but may face more competition. Buyer’s agents, on the other hand, often spend more time house hunting with clients. In terms of earnings, selling agents and listing agents generally earn similar commissions—around 2 to 3%—but listing agents may have more control over the selling process.

Can a listing agent sell a house?

Yes, and this situation is known as dual agency—when one real estate professional represents both the seller and the buyer. While legal in some states, dual agency can create a conflict of interest because the agent must balance the interests of both the buyer and the seller. In fact, it’s illegal in several states, including Colorado and Florida, due to the risks involved.

What is the difference between listing commission and selling commission?

The total commission on a real estate deal is usually 5–6% of the final sale price, split between the listing agent and the selling agent. The listing commission goes to the agent who markets and lists the property, while the selling commission is paid to the agent who brings in the prospective buyer. Both listing and selling agents are usually licensed real estate agents working under a broker, who also receives a portion of the commission.

How do listing and selling agents get paid?

Selling agents are paid a commission when the deal closes, just like listing agents. These commissions are usually paid from the sale proceeds and are not upfront fees. Both types of real estate agents typically work under a commission-split agreement with their broker. Commissions are based on the asking price or fair market value and paid at closing.

Do I really need an agent to buy or sell a house?

While it’s possible to handle a home sale or purchase without a real estate agent, most buyers and sellers benefit from working with one. Real estate professionals bring experience, handle paperwork, and know how to evaluate potential buyers or listings. According to the National Association of Realtors, sellers who work with agents tend to sell faster and for more money. Choosing the right agent—whether a buying agent or a seller’s agent—can save time and stress during the home-buying process.

Selling Agent vs Listing Agent - What's the Difference?

Listing Agent vs. Selling Agent: What’s the Difference? (2025 Simple Guide)

If you’re starting the home buying or selling process, understanding the role of a listing agent vs a selling agent is essential.

These terms are often confused, even though they represent opposite sides of a real estate transaction.

This 2025 guide offers simple, clear definitions and highlights a third path that can save you time and money.

Listing Agent vs. Selling Agent: The Simple Definitions

What Is a Listing Agent?

A listing agent, also called a seller’s agent, is a licensed real estate agent who represents the home seller in a transaction. Their job involves marketing the property, setting a competitive asking price, and negotiating on the seller’s behalf to secure the best terms and final sale price.

Main Goal: Get the highest price and most favorable terms for the seller.

What Is a Selling Agent?

A selling agent is commonly referred to as the buyer’s agent. This real estate professional represents the buyer and helps them evaluate potential properties, submit offers, and handle the closing process.

Main Goal: Help the buyer find the right home and negotiate the best deal.

The Listing Agent’s Role, Explained

A listing agent’s job goes far beyond putting a “For Sale” sign in the yard. Here are their typical duties:

Conduct a comparative market analysis to determine fair market value.
Help set the home’s asking price based on comparable properties in the local housing market.
Hire professional photographers and coordinate marketing efforts.
Place the home on the multiple listing service (MLS).
Schedule showings and host open houses to attract potential buyers.
Negotiate offers, manage contingencies, and ensure legal disclosures are made.

Listing agents typically earn 2% to 3% of the final sale price, paid at closing. NAR’s Home Buyers and Sellers Profile notes that 89% of sellers hired a real estate agent, mainly to help set a competitive price.

The Selling Agent’s Role, Explained

The real estate selling agent is the buyer’s advocate. Their job involves:

Understanding buyer needs, budget, and goals.
Finding potential properties and setting up tours.
Advising on offer prices, financing, and contingencies.
Coordinating with other professionals, like mortgage lenders or home inspectors.
Navigating the homebuying process, from offer to closing.

A buyer’s agent typically earns 2% to 3% of the sale price. 2025 commission data shows the average selling agent earns 2.67%—about $9,800—often still paid by the seller to attract buyers.

Listing Agent vs. Selling Agent: Quick Comparison

Feature

Listing Agent (Seller’s Agent)

Selling Agent (Buyer’s Agent)

Represents

Home Seller

Home Buyer

Main Goal

Get highest price for seller

Find best deal for buyer

Commission

2-3% of sale price

Key Duties

Marketing, pricing, showings

Property search, offers, negotiations

Timeline

30-60+ days average

Cash Buyer Alternative

No agents needed – Direct purchase

What Is Dual Agency? (And Why It’s Controversial)

How Dual Agency Works

Dual agency happens when one licensed real estate agent represents both the buyer and the seller in the same transaction. It often arises when a buyer contacts the listing agent directly, and that agent acts as the dual agent.

Pros and Cons of Dual Agency

Pros

Fewer parties involved, which can streamline communication.
Faster real estate transactions in some cases.

Cons

Clear conflict of interest since the agent must serve both the buyer and seller.
As of 2025, dual agency is banned or limited in states like Colorado, Florida, and Kansas. In Massachusetts, a proposed bill seeks a full ban, citing conflicts of interest. Where it’s legal, both parties must give written consent.

While dual agents must remain neutral, critics argue that it often favors the seller.

Skip the Agents Altogether: A Third Option for Home Sellers

Sell Directly to a Cash Buyer

What if you could skip the real estate agent model entirely?

Selling to a direct cash buyer like iBuyHomes lets you avoid:

Agent commissions (saving you 5-6% total).
Staging, showings, and listings.
Delays from financing or the buyer backing out.

We make a fair market offer based on comparable properties, without any fees.

The Easiest Path for Today’s Sellers

Let’s recap:

A listing agent (also called a seller’s agent) represents the homeowner and handles the marketing, pricing, and showings of the property.
A selling agent (or buyer’s representative) works on behalf of the buyer, helping them find suitable homes and negotiate offers.
Both are licensed real estate professionals who typically split a 5–6% commission based on the final sale price.

But here’s the thing:

Most real estate transactions involve multiple steps, coordination between listing and selling agents, and thousands of dollars in fees.

At iBuyHomes, we offer a direct, commission-free alternative. You don’t need to hire a real estate agent, wonder about whether the selling agent represents your best interests, or ask “what’s the difference between an agent vs. selling agent” again. We’re not part of the traditional real estate industry—we’re the shortcut.

There’s no exclusive right to a contract. No open houses. No delays. Just a fast, direct offer for your property-based needs.

Want to sell your home without worrying about agents and commissions? See how our process works.

This is your opportunity to skip the back-and-forth with many agents, bypass costly fees, and move forward with confidence.

Selling Agents vs. Listing Agents – What’s the Difference?

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