[conductr]

Technically, the 6% goes to the Seller agent. They promote on the listing how much they're willing to share with the Buyer's agent; half is customary but not set in stone.

There are agents for your situation. They'll collect the 3% (or whatever it is) and rebate it back to you at or after closing; less some fixed fee ($600 in my experience). They are not going to do much for you, but if you already found the house yourself and are familiar with the buying contracts/process. It's an option that can save you a lot.

This may differ by state of course. My experience is limited to Texas. But I've bought and sold property using these type of agents. When selling, you just do all the work (hire a photographer $200-500, write the description $0+, and they load it to the MLS for you as the listing agent). I'm of the opinion that for most properties, the only value added marketing is the MLS. When they talk about their websites and portals and ads they run in print media I roll my eyes.

[philips]

In Oregon it is illegal, by statute, to give a refund to a real estate client.