Real Estate Education
How Do Real Estate Agents Get Paid in South Florida?
June 9, 2026 · 6 min read · By Pure Equity Realty
Brokers don't pay agents a salary, they split commissions. But the structure varies enormously between traditional, cap-based, and flat-fee brokerages. Here's how to evaluate any compensation plan.
"Do brokers pay real estate agents?" comes up constantly from people looking at real estate as a career. The short answer: not in the way most jobs work. Florida real estate agents are independent contractors, not employees. They do not receive a salary, health insurance, or benefits from their broker. They earn a share of each commission when a transaction closes. How that share is structured, and what you give up to get it, varies a lot depending on the brokerage you choose.
The commission split model
When a transaction closes, the total commission (typically 2.5 to 3% per side post-NAR settlement) flows first to the broker. The broker then pays the agent their contractually agreed share. That split is set when the agent joins the brokerage and can be renegotiated as production grows.
Common split structures in South Florida:
- 50/50: Traditional model for newer agents or those on heavily supported platforms. You keep 50% of each commission earned.
- 70/30: Common at mid-tier brokerages. You keep 70%, broker keeps 30%.
- 80/20 or 90/10: Higher splits for experienced or high-producing agents.
- 100% commission with desk fee: Agent keeps all commission but pays a monthly desk fee ($200 to $600/month) to the broker.
- Cap model: Agent pays a split (typically 80/20) until reaching an annual cap (often $16,000 to $30,000 paid to broker), then keeps 100% for the rest of the year. KW popularized it; the model is now widespread.
What brokers provide in exchange for the split
Florida law requires every active licensee to work under a licensed broker, so that supervision is not optional. Beyond the legal requirement, brokers typically provide errors and omissions (E&O) insurance coverage, MLS access, training, brand recognition, and transaction management support. Some offer office space and lead generation systems. The actual value of that package differs considerably from one shop to the next.
High-split and 100% commission brokerages generally offer less infrastructure. You trade margin for autonomy. Traditional brokerages offer more support but take a larger cut. The right choice depends on your experience level and how you run your business.
Net income after splits and expenses
The split percentage is only part of the picture. What matters is what you take home after all costs. A 90% split at a brokerage charging $1,500 a month in fees can net less than a 70% split at a no-fee brokerage if your transaction volume is modest.
Run a simple model before you commit. Estimate your projected transaction volume and average commission per side, apply the split, subtract all brokerage fees and your personal business expenses, then compare across the options you are considering. The highest-percentage split does not always produce the most take-home income.
At Pure Equity Realty, our compensation structure is designed to reward production while giving agents the infrastructure they need to build real careers in South Florida. Contact us to learn about agent opportunities across our six-county service area.
Thinking about joining a South Florida brokerage?
Compare your options before you sign anything. Our team works with agents at every stage, from newly licensed to top producers. Reach out here or explore our about page to learn more about how we operate.
Frequently asked questions
Do brokers pay real estate agents a salary in Florida?
No. Florida real estate agents are independent contractors. Brokers do not pay salaries, withhold taxes, or provide employee benefits. Income comes entirely from commission splits when transactions close.
What is a typical commission split for a new agent in South Florida?
New agents often start at a 50/50 or 60/40 split (agent/broker). As production grows, splits generally improve through negotiation or by moving to a cap-based model.
Can I negotiate my split with a broker?
Yes. Most brokerages will negotiate, especially if you bring a track record or commit to a production target. It is worth asking directly before you sign an independent contractor agreement.
What is a cap model and how does it work?
Under a cap model, you pay a split until your total contribution to the broker hits a set dollar amount (the cap). After that, you keep 100% of commissions for the remainder of the anniversary year. It is most useful for agents doing enough volume to hit the cap before year-end.
Are desk fees worth it compared to a split?
Depends on your volume. At low production levels, a desk fee brokerage can cost more than a traditional split arrangement. At high volume, keeping 100% of commissions quickly offsets a fixed monthly fee. Model both scenarios using your realistic numbers.
