Real estate agents normally get paid on commission & split them with other companies & their own company. The agents normally pay their own expenses such as education, licensing, association dues, vehicle, advertising, etc. Agents are independent contractors & pay their own income taxes. Agents can represent the seller, landlord, renter, or the buyer. Builders pay agents to bring them buyer customers. The commissions are negotiable. Sellers & buyers can choose to not use an agent at all. Who actually pays the agents? This question is like "what comes first, the chicken or the egg?" Is the seller paying the agents or is the buyer who brings the money to the table really paying the agents? Whichever you believe, be sure to simply have a written agreement regarding fees with your agent so everyone is on the same page.