The seller pays realtor commissions not the buyer typically.

@Mike G. its times like these where brokers earn their commission in my opinion.

On the listing side, they're offering a quick close in exchange for 10-30k in value left on the table, with fees adding up to a 7% commission  + closing costs.  

It is unlawful for any licensed real estate broker, or broker-salesperson or salesperson to offer, promise, allow, give or pay, directly or indirectly, any part or share of his or her commission, compensation or finder’s fee arising or accruing from any real estate transaction to any person who is not a licensed real estate broker, broker-salesperson or salesperson, in consideration of services performed or to be performed by the unlicensed person.

My earned commission would wash out most commissions offered on the listing side if I had to go that route. 

Redfin gives a portion of their commission back to their customers (Buyers).

I did have to pay commissions and closing costs of around $7,000, so my net gain from appreciation was $13,000. 

then you can use the 1031.To answer your question though you must do 2 things if you want to defer all tax - first you must purchase at least as much as your net sale (contract price minus closing costs and commissions). 

Technically, you are not actively working with clients, but you can refer people who are looking to buy or sell to an active agent and get a 25%-30% referral fee on any commissions generated.

We all agree that a $20-40,000 commission is a little silly on a mid-priced home right?