Updated October 2026
Before signing a brokerage contract, most sellers ask the same question: how much does a real estate broker cost in Quebec, and what does the commission really include? Here are the rules that apply, how to calculate the amount and the questions to ask to compare offers wisely.
The broker's remuneration: what the law says
In Quebec, a real estate broker's remuneration (commonly called the commission) is not set by any fixed rate. It is negotiated between you and the broker and written into the brokerage contract, a mandatory OACIQ form (Organisme d'autoréglementation du courtage immobilier du Québec). Since June 2022, this contract must be in writing for a residential transaction: verbal contracts are no longer allowed.
The remuneration can take two forms:
- A percentage of the sale price, the most common formula;
- A fixed amount, agreed in advance regardless of the price obtained.
The contract also sets out its duration, the services included and the share of the remuneration offered to the broker representing the buyer.
Who pays the commission?
In the vast majority of residential sales, the seller pays the remuneration, out of the sale proceeds, at the notary's office. The listing broker usually shares part of it with the agency of the broker representing the buyer.
The buyer may also sign a brokerage contract – purchase with their own broker. That contract states how the broker will be paid: most often through the share offered by the seller, but it may provide for an amount payable by the buyer if that share is insufficient or absent. Read it before signing.
Taxes are added
A broker's remuneration is a taxable service: GST (5%) and QST (9.975%) are added to the agreed amount, i.e. 14.975% more.
Sample calculation
For illustration only, for a house sold for $550,000 with an agreed remuneration of 4%:
- Remuneration: $550,000 × 4% = $22,000
- GST: $22,000 × 5% = $1,100
- QST: $22,000 × 9.975% = $2,194.50
- Total: $25,294.50, deducted at the notary's office when the sale closes
The actual percentage varies with the property type, price, market and services included. That is exactly what is discussed when the contract is signed.
When is the remuneration payable?
As a rule, the remuneration becomes payable once a promise to purchase is accepted and the sale closes. The brokerage contract also covers particular situations, for example if the seller sells directly, during or shortly after the contract, to a buyer introduced by the broker. Take the time to review these clauses with your broker.
What the commission should get you
Comparing percentages alone is like comparing prices without looking inside the box. Well-invested remuneration covers in particular:
- A comparative market analysis based on actual sales in your area, to set the right price from the start;
- Marketing: professional photos, description, listing on Centris and Realtor.ca, advertising, open houses;
- Managing showings and following up with visiting brokers;
- Negotiating promises to purchase, conditions and deadlines;
- Follow-up through to the notary: inspection, financing, documents, seller's declarations;
- Consumer protection: the broker is supervised by the OACIQ, must hold professional liability insurance and meet verification obligations.
Can a broker represent both the buyer and the seller?
No. Since June 2022, a broker can no longer represent both the seller and the buyer in the same residential transaction. If the buyer has no broker, the seller's broker must inform them of their right to retain one. The seller's broker may treat them fairly and help with certain forms, but continues to act in the seller's interest.
How to compare two brokers' offers
- What is the recommended list price, and which comparable sales support it?
- Which specific services are included (photos, video, advertising, open houses)?
- What share of the remuneration is offered to the buyer's broker?
- What is the contract term, and under what conditions can it end?
- What are the broker's recent results in your area (time on market, gap between asking and selling price)?
Thinking of selling? Start by finding out what your property is really worth: request your free evaluation, with no obligation. We will then discuss services and remuneration openly, with figures to back them up.
