After Getting No Offers, A Home Seller Was Hit With A $26,000 Bill From Their Agent—'Can She Legally Extract Any Money From Me?'

A home seller was left stunned after receiving a $26,000 bill from their real estate agent, despite the property not selling after eight months on the market. The seller, who shared their experience on Reddit, explained that the agent initially agreed to the listing price but later pushed for a significant price cut. When the seller refused, the agent sent an invoice for her time, claiming $280 per hour.

An Unexpected Demand

The seller detailed the ordeal, explaining that the agent presented two options: either lower the asking price by 30% or cancel the contract. “She sent me an estimate of $26,000 for her costs, which includes $280/hr for her time,” the seller wrote. However, they pointed out that their contract only specified a 3% commission upon the sale of the home, with no mention of additional charges.

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When the seller refused to cancel or pay the invoice, the agent reportedly became hostile. “She turned on me and started insulting my property, how it’s not worth much, and that I am way over my head,” they said.

‘She Doesn't Have a Leg to Stand on’

The post quickly gained traction, with commenters overwhelmingly supporting the seller. Many urged them to report the agent to her managing broker and file a complaint with the state real estate commission.

“You have a contract based on commission IF it sells. Unless there is another clause to cover her actual costs, she doesn't have a leg to stand on,” one user wrote. Another commenter agreed: “The entitlement of real estate agents is insane. You don't win every deal and lose hours when you do, welcome to sales.”

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Several users suggested that the agent might be trying to pressure the seller into canceling so she could collect fees that wouldn't otherwise be enforceable. “She's now behaving like a massive grinch to try and provoke you into terminating her,” one person said. “If it isn’t in the listing agreement, it's not enforceable. I would cease all communication with her. She's now dead to you.”

Others questioned the legitimacy of the hourly rate. “$280/hr for a realtor 🤣,” and “Even doctors don’t get $280/hr!” Another added, “I work with consultants with advanced degrees and professional certs and state licenses in difficult fields, and their rates – salary + indirect + a fee isn’t $280/hour.”

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What Should the Seller Do?

Commenters emphasized the importance of reviewing the contract to confirm there are no hidden clauses that justify the agent's demands. They also advised against canceling the contract prematurely, as it could trigger potential fees. Many encouraged the seller to report the agent to her broker, the state real estate board, and the National Association of Realtors. If the agent continues demanding payment, seeking legal advice could be a wise move.

The seller stood firm, stating, “I am not canceling the contract, and I am not paying anything.”

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