Scottsdale Real Estate Agent Salary: How Much Does a Real Estate Agent Make?

If you’re selling a home in Scottsdale, you may be wondering how real estate agents are paid and how much they actually make. And if you’re considering becoming an agent yourself, income potential is probably top of mind.

The short answer? Real estate agent income in Scottsdale varies widely depending on experience, sales volume, market conditions, and whether an agent works full-time or part-time. Below, we’ll break it all down using realistic 2025–2026 figures and reliable industry data.

How much does a real estate agent make in Scottsdale?

In Scottsdale, AZ, most real estate agents earn income through commissions rather than a fixed salary. Based on regional MLS data, national labor statistics, and brokerage income reports, here’s what agents typically earn:

Estimated Scottsdale real estate agent income (2025–2026):

• New or part-time agents: $35,000 – $60,000 per year

• Mid-level full-time agents: $75,000 – $120,000 per year

• Top-producing agents: $180,000 – $300,000+ per year

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and platforms like Indeed and Glassdoor, Arizona real estate agents earn above the national median due to strong home values and transaction volume; especially in luxury-focused markets like Scottsdale.

Why Scottsdale agent earnings are higher than average

Scottsdale is not a typical real estate market. Several local factors push earning potential higher:

• Higher-than-average home prices (often $700K–$1M+ in many neighborhoods)

• Strong luxury and second-home demand

• Seasonal influx of buyers

• Low inventory markets driving competition

Because commissions are based on a percentage of the sale price, agents selling higher-value homes earn more per transaction than agents in lower-priced markets.

How do real estate commissions work in Scottsdale?

Most Scottsdale real estate agents earn 2.5%–3% of the home’s sale price on the listing side. That commission is typically split with:

• The buyer’s agent

• The agent’s brokerage

For example:

• $850,000 home sale

• 2.5% listing commission = $21,250

• After brokerage split (often 70/30 or 80/20), the agent may net $14,000–$17,000 before expenses

This explains why agents who close even 10–15 transactions per year can earn solid six-figure incomes.

Do top agents in Scottsdale earn six figures?

Yes, many do, and some earn significantly more.

Top-producing Scottsdale agents often:

• Close 25–50+ transactions per year

• Specialize in luxury, relocation, or investment properties

• Build strong referral networks

• Invest heavily in marketing and client experience

According to National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports, the top 10% of agents nationwide earn over $200,000 annually, and Scottsdale’s price point puts many local top agents well above that benchmark.

How much do new real estate agents make in Scottsdale?

New agents typically earn less in their first 1–2 years while building experience and a client base.

Typical first-year earnings:

• $35,000 – $50,000 (often inconsistent month to month)

Many new agents work part-time, join teams, or rely on savings during this period. According to NAR, nearly 75% of agents who succeed long-term report income growth after their second year.

How many homes does an agent need to sell to make $100,000?

Let’s look at a realistic example:

• Average Scottsdale home price: ~$800,000

• Agent net per transaction (after split): ~$15,000

To earn $100,000 before taxes and expenses, an agent would need to close 7–8 transactions per year at that price point.

This is very achievable for established, full-time agents in Scottsdale.

What expenses do real estate agents pay out of pocket?

Agent income is gross commission, not take-home pay. Common expenses include:

• Brokerage splits and desk fees

• MLS and association dues

• Marketing and advertising

• Photography, staging, and signage

• Licensing and continuing education

• Self-employment taxes

According to industry estimates, agents may spend 20%–35% of gross income on business expenses.

Why home sellers should understand agent income

For sellers, knowing how agents are paid helps explain:

• Why commission structures exist

• How incentives align with selling price and speed

• Why experienced agents may charge higher rates

A skilled agent’s income reflects not just sales, but negotiation ability, marketing investment, legal knowledge, and risk management; all of which directly impact a seller’s bottom line.

Is becoming a real estate agent in Scottsdale worth it?

For motivated professionals, Scottsdale remains one of Arizona’s most attractive real estate markets.

Pros:

• High price points

• Strong buyer demand

• Six-figure income potential

Challenges:

• Competitive market

• Inconsistent early income

• No guaranteed salary

According to NAR and Arizona Regional MLS data, agents who treat real estate as a full-time business not a side gig are far more likely to reach higher income levels.

Final thoughts

So, how much does a real estate agent make in Scottsdale?

It depends, but the potential is strong. Whether you’re a homeowner curious about commissions or a future agent exploring career options, Scottsdale’s real estate market offers opportunity for those who understand the numbers and commit to the work.

Scottsdale Real Estate Agent Salary Summary