Real Estate Shock! The Truth About 0% Buyer’s Commission Homes in Silicon Valley
If you’ve seen listings in the Bay Area advertising “0% commission for buyers” or “commission-free homes,” you may have wondered if it’s really possible to buy a home without paying any agent fees. The good news is that in most cases, it absolutely is. A 0% buyer’s commission doesn’t mean there’s no commission at all — it means the seller pays the entire commission, so the buyer gets full professional representation at no cost.
Traditionally, sellers have covered both the listing agent’s and the buyer’s agent’s commissions. Recently, some agents have begun highlighting “0% buyer’s commission” on listings to make it clear that the buyer does not have to pay for their agent’s services. It’s a marketing shift designed to attract buyers who might otherwise assume they’ll be responsible for extra fees. In reality, it’s a smart move that makes the buying process more affordable and transparent for everyone involved.
Having your own buyer’s agent is still one of the most important steps you can take when purchasing a home in San Mateo or Santa Clara County. The listing agent’s job is to represent the seller’s best interests and secure the highest possible sale price. Your agent’s role is to protect you, to make sure you don’t overpay, to catch hidden issues in disclosures, and to negotiate the best possible terms. With the seller covering the commission, you can enjoy all these benefits without any out-of-pocket cost.
Lisa Lum at Coldwell Banker Realty, helps buyers take full advantage of this opportunity. She ensures her clients understand exactly how commissions are structured and guides them through every stage of the process. From finding homes where the seller pays full commission to preparing strong offers and negotiating credits, Lisa uses her experience and market knowledge to help buyers get the most value for their investment.
Across Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Burlingame, Mountain View, Cupertino, and Los Altos, the market remains competitive. Homes often sell quickly, and understanding how to structure an offer can make or break a deal. Lisa provides her clients with deep neighborhood insights, real-time market data, and expert negotiation strategies that give them a clear edge. Whether you’re buying your first condo or upgrading to your dream home, her guidance ensures a smooth, confident experience — and you don’t pay a cent in commission.
The best part about a 0% buyer’s commission is that it removes one more barrier to homeownership. You get a knowledgeable professional on your side, the seller covers the cost, and you can focus entirely on finding the right home and securing the best deal. It’s one of the few win-win situations in real estate, and Lisa makes sure her clients take full advantage of it.
In an evolving market, where transparency and value matter more than ever, Lisa Lum continues to stand out as a trusted Coldwell Banker Realtor® based in Menlo Park, serving buyers throughout San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties. Her approach is built on clarity, integrity, and results, giving every buyer the confidence to move forward knowing they’re fully represented and protected.
Call Lisa today at 650.668.1868 or email at lisa.lum@cbrealty.com to learn how to buy your next home in the Bay Area with expert guidance, strong negotiation, and zero commission costs to you.