One of the most profitable and competitive markets for real estate brokers is Mumbai. The commission structure, which changes according to the type of property, deal size, and customer agreements, is a significant component that affects a broker’s earnings. Knowing how commissions operate will help you optimise your profits and properly structure your transactions, regardless of your level of expertise as a real estate agent.

Mumbai’s Standard Broking Rates
Although actual costs can vary depending on the type of property and deal complexity, Mumbai’s real estate market generally adheres to commission rules. Below is a summary of the most popular commission arrangements:
- Residential Property Sales: both the buyer and the seller contribute 1% to 2% of the property’s transaction value.
- Sales of commercial real estate: 1% to 2% (or more in upscale areas) from both sides
- Residential rental transactions: the renter pays one month’s rent, and occasionally the landlord does as well.
- Commercial rental transactions: based on the size of the property and the length of the lease, rent can range from one to three months.
Because of the premium property values in high-demand neighbourhoods like Bandra, Powai, and South Mumbai, brokers may be able to negotiate larger commissions.
The Elements That Affect Broking Commissions
How much a broker can make on a deal depends on a number of factors:
a) Type of Property and Location: Because of their high transaction value, luxury homes and commercial real estate in neighbourhoods like BKC, Nariman Point, and Lower Parel get higher commissions.
b) Resale versus New Properties:
- New Projects: Depending on the developer’s sales approach, builders offer brokers commissions that range from 1.5% to 5%. Bonuses for bulk purchases are among the extra incentives that some developers provide.
- Resale Properties: The buyer’s and seller’s brokers split the commission, which typically ranges from 1% to 2%.
c) Rental Lease Tenure: Higher commissions, sometimes expressed as a percentage of the entire lease value, are frequently obtained from longer rental agreements (5+ years) in commercial buildings.
d) Listings that are Exclusive versus Non-Exclusive
- Exclusive Listings: Brokers managing exclusive sales, in which they act as a property’s only agent, are able to bargain for larger commissions.
- Open Listings: Price battles between rival brokers may result in cheaper commissions.
3. Who Covers the Broker’s Fee?
In Mumbai, buyers, sellers, renters, or landlords usually divide the broking charge. This is how it typically operates:
- In real estate transactions, the buyer and seller each pay 1% to 2% in broking fees.
- For rentals: Although the landlord may also contribute in premium rentals, the renter typically pays one month’s rent.
- In commercial leases, the lessee (tenant) usually pays the cost; nevertheless, in areas with intense competition, landlords may provide incentives.
4. Strategies for Brokers to Increase Their Commission Revenue
a) Focussing on Markets with High Value: Because of the larger commission percentages, concentrating on pre-launch projects, luxury residences, or commercial properties can greatly increase revenue.
b) Bargaining for Increased Commissions: Brokers can provide value-added services like these to support higher commissions rather than keeping to conventional rates:
- Transaction management from start to finish
- Investment insights and market analysis
- Legal and financial support for purchasers
c) Collaborating with builders and developers: Brokers that close numerous agreements or bring in high-net-worth clients might receive greater commission slabs from many Mumbai developers.
d) Using Digital Marketing to Generate Leads: To draw in high-value customers and exclusive listings, top-performing brokers use social media marketing, Google Ads, and SEO-optimized real estate websites.
5. Real Estate Commissions: Legal and Tax Considerations
- RERA Compliance: Broking fees and agreements must be transparent for all registered brokers under MahaRERA.
- GST on Broking: An 18% GST is applied to broking commissions over ₹20 lakh per year.
- Income Tax Implications: Brokers are eligible for tax deductions on business expenditures and are required to report their earnings.
Conclusion
Brokers hoping to establish a successful real estate company in Mumbai must comprehend the commission system. Brokers can increase their profits and establish long-term success in the market by employing digital tools, concentrating on high-value properties, and engaging in wise negotiations.
How do you set up your commissions as a Mumbai real estate broker? Leave a comment below about your experiences!