I have taken upfront fees for many years.   I charge what I charge, nothing is reduced or discounted.

Good question Michael, there are tradeoffs in every negotiation, guaranteed money upfront does take part of the risk out of the deal and likely should be rewarded.

Of course it does depend on how much upfront, and how much of a reduction.

I am always willing to be creative when it comes to getting a home sold and me paid.

Michael J. Perry I wouldn't reduce my fee, but I do charge a non-refundable retainer fee that is credited back at the closing.

I am open to any win win...

Attorneys charge a retainer fee; why not real estate agents

 Never sell yourself short.

I don't negotiate on my commission

If it made business sense.

Michael J. Perry - never thought of it.

What happens if the property does not sell?

Have you ever heard of ACRE? It is a group of people who believe we ought to charge per item instead of a straight commission.  Jennifer Allan-Hagedorn use to run the organization I believe.

We don't do upfront fees but would like to see that trend change and adjust the backend accordingly.

I'd like that a lot.  Many lawyers charge upfront regardless the result. 

Creativity is something we all need to consider.

Michael,

Not a fan of this.  A

Michael J. Perry It depends on the property.

I think it depends  if the upfrot money is refunded if no deal is made

Nope.

Do you mean a fee that is refunded if the property does not sell?

I've never thought about this.  Aside from specialized marketing expenses that the seller demanded, I don't think I would do this.

Sounds like an unearned commission which you will find is not acceptable to your State Real Estate Governing bod

As in buyer agent? Sure but I haven't heard any scenario yet where it's come up.