How Should I Pay a Showing Assistant?

By Tammy Northcutt

Tammy Northcutt is the Operating Principal of Keller Williams Realty Preferred in Orland Park and CEO of The Wexler Group Team.

Are you showing home after home, rushing from one tour to the next, and trying to keep up with your buyers at the same time? If this feels familiar, you’ve reached the point where a showing assistant can help you take the next step. But how should you pay them?

While there is no one-size-fits-all strategy, here’s what you can do and some things you should consider.

1. Know their role. Before selecting a pay plan, clarify the role you want them to play. First, clarify whether your showing assistant is licensed or unlicensed. A licensed assistant can show homes on your behalf, while an unlicensed one cannot. They can help with scheduling, planning, or opening doors under your supervision. When you know their role, you avoid risk and protect your business.

2. Choose a simple plan. There are three common ways to structure compensation for a showing assistant, depending on your business needs. Some agents prefer a flat fee per showing, which works well for occasional help or specific tours. Others opt for an hourly rate to provide a consistent experience for high-volume, steady support. For those who want to align rewards directly with closed transactions, a commission split on buyer deals is a popular performance-based option.

Regardless of the method you choose, it is important to remember that compensation rates are not fixed and should be determined based on your unique market and business model. Because real estate regulations and licensing requirements vary significantly by state, you should always consult with your managing broker and legal counsel to ensure your pay structure complies with local laws and industry standards.

3. Set clear expectations. Before they start, write down the rules. Decide who schedules tours. Decide who talks with the client. Decide how you track mileage, payments, and time. When everything is clear, your assistant knows how to win. This prevents stress and keeps the work smooth.

4. Watch the return. A showing assistant should help you earn more or save more time. Track the hours they cover. Track the extra clients you can take because of them. If your income grows, the system is working. If not, adjust the plan.

Hiring a showing assistant can help you grow faster and with less stress. You can serve more clients, keep your buyers happy, and protect your time. If you need assistance selecting the right pay plan or setting up your system, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Call, text, or email us for a complimentary consultation. We’ll help you pick the best plan for your goals and your market.