Compensation is typically based on a percentage of the sales price, split between the buying and selling brokers, and then between the agent(s) and his/her real estate agency. While a split based on the percentage received by the broker is generally normal, in some brokerages agents may pay a monthly "desk fee" for office costs, monthly fee, etc. and then retain 100% of the commission received.
According to various trade journals such as Realty Times, the first year failure rate is over 86%, and for those brokers or agents who have survived, over 70% have an income less than $30,000. A National Association of Realtors survey found a median income in 2004 of $37,600 for agents, and $52,800 for brokers, though many top agents earn six-figure incomes. [10]. Even for those who have survived for years, most earn a modest income comparable to that of the American middle class. However, many agents work only on a part-time basis.