Trying to find a real estate agent, but you want to know something about commissions before you take the plunge? That's a smart move, because a knowledgeable buyer or seller is one who can make the best deal. Here's some information about real estate agent commissions you might not know.

Though real estate commisions vary across the United States, its fair to say that commissions average 4-6% of the sale price of the house. So suppose a $300,000 house has just sold for a 5% commission, then there's $15,000 made on comissions. But before you assume that the real estate agent is getting rich, consider this. Commissions are usually splt 50-50 between the buyer's agent's company and the seller's agent's company. So each company now has about $7,500. Out of this $7,500 nationally the company will keep about 58% or $4,350. That leaves $3,150 for the agent.

Most real estate agents don't get rich on this kind of arrangement. The median earnings for a real estate agent in the United States was just over $35,000 in 2004. Some agents make a good living, but many don't really make much money at all.

It is always best to compare several different real estate agents before making your final selection. You'll quickly learn which are the most knowledgeable and able to help.