New York City Home Buyer Rebate: How Much Cash You Get Back
Commission rebates to buyers are legal in New York City. Most buyers can get about 2% of the price back in cash at closing, roughly $18,140 on a median-priced New York City home.
Look up your rebate
For example, $500,000
What is a commission rebate in New York City?
When you buy a home in New York City, the seller usually pays your agent a commission of around 3% of the price, already built into what you pay. A commission rebate is when your buyer's agent gives part of that back to you, in cash, at closing. It is legal in New York, and it is your own money returned to you at no extra cost.
How much is a rebate on a New York City home?
The recent median New York City home price is about $907,000 (Redfin, New York City median sale price, 2026). A 2% buyer rebate on that is roughly $18,140, paid to you at closing. Enter your own price above to see your number.
Frequently asked questions
What is a commission rebate in New York City?
A commission rebate in New York City is when your buyer's agent returns part of the commission they earn on your purchase to you, in cash, at closing. The buyer's-agent commission is already built into the home's price, so a rebate simply hands part of that money back to you.
Are buyer commission rebates legal in New York City?
Yes. New York City follows New York law, and commission rebates to buyers are legal in New York. A licensed New York City agent may rebate part of their commission to the buyer they represent.
How much is a buyer rebate in New York City?
About 2% of the purchase price, paid to you at closing. On a $907,000 New York City home (the recent median) that is roughly $18,140.
Are commission rebates taxable in New York City?
Generally no. The IRS treats a buyer rebate as a reduction in the home's purchase price, not income, so you lower your cost basis instead of paying tax on it (IRS Letter Ruling 157111-06). This is general information, not tax advice.
What is the largest commission rebate I can get in New York City?
There is no legal cap in New York. Rebates commonly run about 2% of the price, and some rebate-friendly New York City brokerages return more. On a $907,000 home a 2% rebate is about $18,140. Get the exact amount in writing before you sign a buyer-representation agreement.
Official sources
See the full New York rebate guide and rules →
This is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules change, so confirm the current rule with the New York Dept. of State, Division of Licensing Services, N.Y. Real Prop. Law § 442 (linked above) before you rely on it.
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