Let’s Be Honest: Commission Isn’t What’s Pricing Buyers Out of the Scottsdale Market

There’s been a lot of noise lately about commissions and whether they’re to blame for high home prices. As someone who’s spent more than two decades in real estate, from commercial development to luxury residential sales here in Scottsdale, I can tell you with confidence: commissions aren’t what’s keeping buyers out of the market.

What’s Really Driving Prices in Scottsdale

Home values are determined by supply and demand, not what agents earn. And in Scottsdale, recent market data shows continued upward pressure on prices and constrained inventory. This is a clear sign that demand is still very strong. According to Rocket Homes, Scottsdale inventory in mid-2025 was just ~2,652 homes, and year-over-year median prices were up nearly 5.9%. Meanwhile, localized submarkets like North Scottsdale have seen price increases over 4%. Overall in Arizona, a September 2025 study estimates a housing shortfall of more than 50,000 units. Together, these trends show that demand continues to outpace supply, even in today’s shifting interest-rate climate.

Between limited new construction, continued relocation from out of state, and buyers looking for premium lifestyle communities like DC Ranch, Optima Camelview, and Windgate Ranch, inventory remains tight.

That competition, not commissions, is what drives prices up. Even if commissions disappeared tomorrow, home prices wouldn’t suddenly fall. The market dictates value based on what buyers are willing to pay for quality, location, and lifestyle.

Why Many Sellers Still Offer Buyer Agent Commission

Even with the recent commission rule changes, many Scottsdale sellers continue to offer buyer-agent compensation. Here’s why:

• It broadens your buyer pool. Many buyers, especially first-time homeowners or relocating professionals, can’t easily cover additional out-of-pocket fees.

• It supports smoother transactions. A buyer with an experienced agent is better prepared, more realistic, and easier to negotiate with, which benefits the seller, too.

• It helps homes sell faster and often for more. Properties that include buyer-agent compensation tend to attract more serious and qualified buyers.
  

In neighborhoods like Southwest Village or Talon Ranch, where buyers are often discerning and competition can be fierce, every advantage matters.

What This Means for You as a Buyer or Seller

The new commission rules didn’t break real estate. They made it more transparent and flexible. Buyers and sellers now have clearer options, but the fundamentals haven’t changed: you still need a strategy, a strong advocate, and a trusted advisor who understands this market inside and out.

That’s where I come in.

With 22 years of experience across both commercial and residential real estate, I’ve helped clients succeed in every type of market — up, down, or uncertain. My role is to help you make smart, confident decisions that protect your investment and achieve your goals.

So instead of focusing on fees, let’s focus on what really matters:

• How to position your home to sell for top dollar.

• How to structure an offer that stands out in a competitive market.

• And how to navigate this evolving landscape with clarity and confidence.

  
  

Because the truth is, it’s not the broker’s fee. It’s the free market.And with the right strategy, you can win in it.