How do business brokers get paid?

Business brokers typically earn commissions from completed sales that they facilitate. In addition to their commision, they may also work for an hourly rate or have a retainer fee. Depending on the brokerage and contract between the broker and client, these payments may be payment installments or lump sums. For example, payment may consist of a combination of an upfront retainer for expenses used in the sale, along with a commission at the completion of the sale. Commissions can average between 5% to 12%, but this is also dependent on the client and size of the business.