{"content_id":"eyutdbhzcw","slug":"officetel-brokerage-fee-higher-reason","locale":"en","schema_type":"Article","category":"knowledge_base","category_name":"Knowledge Base","title":"Why Office-Apartment Brokerage Commissions Are Higher Than Those for Residential Properties, and How They Are Calculated","summary":"Even if an officetel is actually occupied by residents, under the real estate brokerage commission system, it is generally treated as a property other than a residential unit, and thus may be subject to higher commission rates than residential properties. However, for officetels that meet certain requirements—such as having an exclusive floor area of 85 square meters or less—a maximum commission rate of 0.4% for leases and 0.5% for sales and exchanges applies.","author":{"name":"Injoys Editorial Team","url":"https://injoys.com/ko/about"},"key_points":["Since officetels are classified as commercial facilities under the Building Act, the standard commission schedule for residential properties does not apply to them.","Officetels with a usable floor area of 85 square meters or less that are equipped with a private kitchen, a private flush toilet, and bathing facilities are subject to a separate officetel tax rate.","The maximum tax rates for officetels that meet residential requirements are 0.5% for sales and exchanges, and 0.4% for leases and other transactions.","Officetels that do not meet the requirements are considered non-residential properties for brokerage purposes, and the brokerage fee may be negotiated within 0.9% of the transaction amount.","Since 0.4% is not a fixed rate that must be paid but rather a statutory maximum rate, the amount of the brokerage commission must be negotiated and confirmed before signing the contract."],"content_markdown":"When signing a lease for an officetel, people are sometimes surprised to find that the brokerage fee is higher than for apartments or villas, even though it feels just like a “home.” The correct legal term is not “brokerage fee” but “brokerage compensation,” and the key reason for this difference is that officetels are not treated the same as general residential properties under the brokerage compensation system.\n\n## Key Conclusion\n\nThe reason officetel brokerage fees may seem expensive is that, in principle, officetels are not classified as residential properties but fall under the category of non-residential properties subject to brokerage. However, there are separate, reduced rates for officetels below a certain size that are actually used for residential purposes.\n\n| Category | Application Conditions | Maximum Rate for Leases, etc. | Maximum Rate for Sales and Exchanges |\n|---|---:|---:|---:|\n| Officetels Meeting Residential Requirements | Exclusive floor area of 85㎡ or less and meeting certain facility requirements | 0.4% | 0.5% |\n| Officetels Not Meeting Requirements | Do not meet the above requirements | Negotiable within 0.9% | Negotiable within 0.9% |\n| Housing | Subject to the housing brokerage fee schedule in city or provincial ordinances | Differentiated by transaction amount bracket | Differentiated by transaction amount bracket |\n\nIt is important to note that 0.4% is not a “fixed rate that must be paid unconditionally,” but rather a “maximum rate that cannot be exceeded.” The actual brokerage commission is determined through negotiation between the client and the licensed real estate broker within this cap.\n\n## Why Can Officetels Have Higher Brokerage Fees Than Residential Properties?\n\n### 1. Officetels Are Classified Differently from Residential Properties, Regardless of Actual Occupancy\n\nEven if an officetel has a bed, kitchen, and bathroom and is actually occupied by people, it is not automatically subject to the same brokerage fee schedule as general residential properties under the law. The Enforcement Rules of the Licensed Real Estate Broker Act distinguish between brokerage fees for residential properties and those for non-residential properties.\n\nFor this reason, officetels are first classified as “non-residential properties,” and a separate officetel rate is applied only if they meet certain requirements.\n\n### 2. If Residential Requirements Are Not Met, a Rate of Up to 0.9% May Apply\n\nThe 0.4% rental commission rate does not always apply simply because the property is being used for residential purposes. To qualify for the separate officetel rate under the law, all of the following requirements must be met:\n\n- The exclusive floor area must be 85 square meters or less\n- It must have a private, built-in kitchen equipped with water and sewerage facilities\n- It must have a private flush toilet\n- It must have bathing facilities\n- A configuration where the bathing facilities are included within the private flush toilet may also be recognized\n\nIf these requirements are not met, the property is considered a non-residential brokerage subject, and the brokerage commission is negotiated within 0.9% of the transaction amount. In this case, the rate may feel significantly higher than the residential lease rate.\n\n## Brokerage Commission Rates for Residential Officetels\n\nThe upper limits for brokerage commissions on officetels that meet the requirements are as follows:\n\n| Transaction Type | Upper Limit Rate | Meaning |\n|---|---:|---|\n| Sale/Exchange | 0.5% | Up to 0.005 × transaction amount |\n| Lease (Jeonse, monthly rent, etc.) | 0.4% | Up to 0.004 × transaction amount |\n\nThe phrase “up to” is important here. The maximum rate simply indicates the upper limit that a broker may charge; it does not mean that the exact percentage must be paid. A 2026 legal interpretation by the Ministry of Government Legislation also held that brokers must consult with the client when determining brokerage fees for officetels that meet residential requirements.\n\n## How to Calculate Brokerage Fees for Officetel Monthly Rent Leases\n\nFor monthly rent leases, the transaction amount is calculated not just based on the security deposit, but by multiplying the monthly rent by a certain factor.\n\n### Basic Formula\n\n- General monthly rent transaction amount = Security deposit + Monthly rent × 100\n- If the calculated amount is less than 50 million won = Security deposit + Monthly rent × 70\n- Maximum brokerage commission = Transaction amount × Applicable maximum rate\n\nIf the officetel lease meets residential requirements, simply multiply the calculated transaction amount by 0.4%.\n\n## Calculation Example: Security Deposit 30 million won, Monthly Rent 700,000 won\n\n| Item | Calculation |\n|---|---:|\n| Security Deposit | 30,000,000 won |\n| Annualized Monthly Rent | 700,000 won × 100 = 70,000,000 won |\n| Transaction Amount | 30,000,000 won + 70,000,000 won = 100,000,000 won |\n| Maximum Commission Rate for Residential Officetel Leases | 0.4% |\n| Maximum Brokerage Fee | 100,000,000 KRW × 0.004 = 400,000 KRW |\n\nTherefore, for a residential officetel lease agreement with a security deposit of 30 million won and a monthly rent of 700,000 won, the maximum brokerage fee is 400,000 won. Since this is a maximum limit, the actual amount charged can be negotiated before signing the contract.\n\n## Why is there a difference compared to a residential home under the same conditions?\n\nFor example, in Seoul, the maximum commission rate for residential leases in the transaction amount range of 100 million won or more but less than 600 million won is 0.3%. Since the transaction amount in the example above is 100 million won, the maximum brokerage commission for a residential property in Seoul would be 300,000 won.\n\nOn the other hand, if an officetel with the same security deposit and monthly rent meets residential requirements, the 0.4% cap rate for officetel leases applies, resulting in a cap of 400,000 won. This difference arises because the starting points for brokerage fee regulations differ, even when the same space is used for residential purposes.\n\n| Example | Transaction Amount | Applicable Cap Rate | Maximum Brokerage Fee |\n|---|---:|---:|---:|\n| Example of a residential lease in Seoul | 100 million won | 0.3% | 300,000 won |\n| Officetel Lease Meeting Residential Requirements | 100 million won | 0.4% | 400,000 won |\n| Officetel Not Meeting Residential Requirements | 100 million won | Within 0.9% | Negotiable, up to 900,000 won |\n\nHowever, since real estate brokerage commissions for residential properties may vary depending on local ordinances and transaction price brackets, you must check the latest rate tables for the relevant city or province when signing an actual contract.\n\n## Checklist to Review Before Signing a Contract\n\nTo verify whether the brokerage commission for an officetel is being charged excessively, it is recommended to follow the steps below.\n\n1. **Verify the designated use in the Building Registry**: Confirm whether it is an officetel or another type of business facility or neighborhood commercial facility.\n2. **Verify the exclusive floor area**: Check whether the exclusive floor area is 85 square meters or less, not the gross floor area.\n3. **Verify facility requirements**: Confirm that the unit has a private built-in kitchen, a private flush toilet, and bathing facilities.\n4. **Calculate the transaction amount**: For monthly rent, first apply the formula: security deposit + monthly rent × 100.\n5. **Apply the Maximum Rate**: For officetel leases that meet residential requirements, calculate the maximum rate based on 0.4%; for sales and exchanges, use 0.5%.\n6. **Confirm the Agreed-Upon Amount**: Since the maximum rate is the upper limit, clearly agree on the actual amount to be paid before signing the contract.\n7. **Verify the Property Verification and Explanation Document**: Confirm that the brokerage commission amount and the basis for its calculation are listed correctly on the document and receipt.\n\n## Common Points of Confusion\n\n### Does living in a property automatically mean the residential rate applies?\n\nNo. The residential brokerage fee schedule does not apply based solely on whether you actually live there. For officetels, separate officetel rate requirements must be considered.\n\n### Is 0.4% a non-negotiable amount?\n\nNo. 0.4% is the maximum rate applied to officetels that meet residential requirements in transactions such as leases. This means the rate cannot exceed the statutory cap, but it does not mean you must pay the full 0.4%.\n\n### Are jeonse (lump-sum deposit leases) included in “rental agreements, etc.”?\n\nGenerally, jeonse and monthly rent leases—as opposed to sales or exchanges—fall under “rental agreements, etc.” Jeonse and monthly rent for officetels that meet residential requirements are calculated based on the 0.4% cap.\n\n## Summary\n\nThe reason officetel brokerage fees may seem higher than those for residential homes is not simply because brokers are trying to charge more. Under the system, officetels are classified differently from residential homes, and a separate, reduced rate applies only if certain requirements are met.\n\nTenants should verify the following: “Is the exclusive floor area 85 square meters or less?” “Does it meet the requirements for a dedicated kitchen, toilet, and bathing facilities?” “Has the monthly rent amount been calculated correctly?” and “Is the agreed-upon amount within the cap rate?” By verifying these four points, you can relatively clearly determine why the officetel brokerage fee was set at that amount and whether there has been any overcharging.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eWhen signing a lease for an officetel, people are sometimes surprised to find that the brokerage fee is higher than for apartments or villas, even though it feels just like a “home.” The correct legal term is not “brokerage fee” but “brokerage compensation,” and the key reason for this difference is that officetels are not treated the same as general residential properties under the brokerage compensation system.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#key-conclusion\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"key-conclusion\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eKey Conclusion\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe reason officetel brokerage fees may seem expensive is that, in principle, officetels are not classified as residential properties but fall under the category of non-residential properties subject to brokerage. However, there are separate, reduced rates for officetels below a certain size that are actually used for residential purposes.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCategory\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eApplication Conditions\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMaximum Rate for Leases, etc.\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMaximum Rate for Sales and Exchanges\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOfficetels Meeting Residential Requirements\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eExclusive floor area of 85㎡ or less and meeting certain facility requirements\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.4%\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.5%\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOfficetels Not Meeting Requirements\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDo not meet the above requirements\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNegotiable within 0.9%\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNegotiable within 0.9%\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHousing\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSubject to the housing brokerage fee schedule in city or provincial ordinances\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDifferentiated by transaction amount bracket\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDifferentiated by transaction amount bracket\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is important to note that 0.4% is not a “fixed rate that must be paid unconditionally,” but rather a “maximum rate that cannot be exceeded.” The actual brokerage commission is determined through negotiation between the client and the licensed real estate broker within this cap.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#why-can-officetels-have-higher-brokerage-fees-than-residential-properties\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"why-can-officetels-have-higher-brokerage-fees-than-residential-properties\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhy Can Officetels Have Higher Brokerage Fees Than Residential Properties?\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003ca href=\"#1-officetels-are-classified-differently-from-residential-properties-regardless-of-actual-occupancy\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"1-officetels-are-classified-differently-from-residential-properties-regardless-of-actual-occupancy\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e1. Officetels Are Classified Differently from Residential Properties, Regardless of Actual Occupancy\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven if an officetel has a bed, kitchen, and bathroom and is actually occupied by people, it is not automatically subject to the same brokerage fee schedule as general residential properties under the law. The Enforcement Rules of the Licensed Real Estate Broker Act distinguish between brokerage fees for residential properties and those for non-residential properties.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor this reason, officetels are first classified as “non-residential properties,” and a separate officetel rate is applied only if they meet certain requirements.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003ca href=\"#2-if-residential-requirements-are-not-met-a-rate-of-up-to-09-may-apply\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"2-if-residential-requirements-are-not-met-a-rate-of-up-to-09-may-apply\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e2. If Residential Requirements Are Not Met, a Rate of Up to 0.9% May Apply\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 0.4% rental commission rate does not always apply simply because the property is being used for residential purposes. To qualify for the separate officetel rate under the law, all of the following requirements must be met:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe exclusive floor area must be 85 square meters or less\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIt must have a private, built-in kitchen equipped with water and sewerage facilities\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIt must have a private flush toilet\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIt must have bathing facilities\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA configuration where the bathing facilities are included within the private flush toilet may also be recognized\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf these requirements are not met, the property is considered a non-residential brokerage subject, and the brokerage commission is negotiated within 0.9% of the transaction amount. In this case, the rate may feel significantly higher than the residential lease rate.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#brokerage-commission-rates-for-residential-officetels\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"brokerage-commission-rates-for-residential-officetels\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eBrokerage Commission Rates for Residential Officetels\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe upper limits for brokerage commissions on officetels that meet the requirements are as follows:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTransaction Type\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eUpper Limit Rate\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMeaning\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSale/Exchange\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.5%\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eUp to 0.005 × transaction amount\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLease (Jeonse, monthly rent, etc.)\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.4%\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eUp to 0.004 × transaction amount\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe phrase “up to” is important here. The maximum rate simply indicates the upper limit that a broker may charge; it does not mean that the exact percentage must be paid. A 2026 legal interpretation by the Ministry of Government Legislation also held that brokers must consult with the client when determining brokerage fees for officetels that meet residential requirements.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#how-to-calculate-brokerage-fees-for-officetel-monthly-rent-leases\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"how-to-calculate-brokerage-fees-for-officetel-monthly-rent-leases\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eHow to Calculate Brokerage Fees for Officetel Monthly Rent Leases\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor monthly rent leases, the transaction amount is calculated not just based on the security deposit, but by multiplying the monthly rent by a certain factor.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003ca href=\"#basic-formula\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"basic-formula\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eBasic Formula\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGeneral monthly rent transaction amount = Security deposit + Monthly rent × 100\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf the calculated amount is less than 50 million won = Security deposit + Monthly rent × 70\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaximum brokerage commission = Transaction amount × Applicable maximum rate\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf the officetel lease meets residential requirements, simply multiply the calculated transaction amount by 0.4%.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#calculation-example-security-deposit-30-million-won-monthly-rent-700000-won\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"calculation-example-security-deposit-30-million-won-monthly-rent-700000-won\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eCalculation Example: Security Deposit 30 million won, Monthly Rent 700,000 won\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eItem\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCalculation\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSecurity Deposit\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e30,000,000 won\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAnnualized Monthly Rent\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e700,000 won × 100 = 70,000,000 won\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTransaction Amount\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e30,000,000 won + 70,000,000 won = 100,000,000 won\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMaximum Commission Rate for Residential Officetel Leases\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.4%\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMaximum Brokerage Fee\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e100,000,000 KRW × 0.004 = 400,000 KRW\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTherefore, for a residential officetel lease agreement with a security deposit of 30 million won and a monthly rent of 700,000 won, the maximum brokerage fee is 400,000 won. Since this is a maximum limit, the actual amount charged can be negotiated before signing the contract.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#why-is-there-a-difference-compared-to-a-residential-home-under-the-same-conditions\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"why-is-there-a-difference-compared-to-a-residential-home-under-the-same-conditions\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhy is there a difference compared to a residential home under the same conditions?\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor example, in Seoul, the maximum commission rate for residential leases in the transaction amount range of 100 million won or more but less than 600 million won is 0.3%. Since the transaction amount in the example above is 100 million won, the maximum brokerage commission for a residential property in Seoul would be 300,000 won.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn the other hand, if an officetel with the same security deposit and monthly rent meets residential requirements, the 0.4% cap rate for officetel leases applies, resulting in a cap of 400,000 won. This difference arises because the starting points for brokerage fee regulations differ, even when the same space is used for residential purposes.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eExample\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTransaction Amount\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eApplicable Cap Rate\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMaximum Brokerage Fee\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eExample of a residential lease in Seoul\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e100 million won\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.3%\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e300,000 won\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOfficetel Lease Meeting Residential Requirements\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e100 million won\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.4%\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e400,000 won\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOfficetel Not Meeting Residential Requirements\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e100 million won\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWithin 0.9%\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNegotiable, up to 900,000 won\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, since real estate brokerage commissions for residential properties may vary depending on local ordinances and transaction price brackets, you must check the latest rate tables for the relevant city or province when signing an actual contract.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#checklist-to-review-before-signing-a-contract\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"checklist-to-review-before-signing-a-contract\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eChecklist to Review Before Signing a Contract\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo verify whether the brokerage commission for an officetel is being charged excessively, it is recommended to follow the steps below.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVerify the designated use in the Building Registry\u003c/strong\u003e: Confirm whether it is an officetel or another type of business facility or neighborhood commercial facility.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVerify the exclusive floor area\u003c/strong\u003e: Check whether the exclusive floor area is 85 square meters or less, not the gross floor area.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVerify facility requirements\u003c/strong\u003e: Confirm that the unit has a private built-in kitchen, a private flush toilet, and bathing facilities.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCalculate the transaction amount\u003c/strong\u003e: For monthly rent, first apply the formula: security deposit + monthly rent × 100.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eApply the Maximum Rate\u003c/strong\u003e: For officetel leases that meet residential requirements, calculate the maximum rate based on 0.4%; for sales and exchanges, use 0.5%.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConfirm the Agreed-Upon Amount\u003c/strong\u003e: Since the maximum rate is the upper limit, clearly agree on the actual amount to be paid before signing the contract.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVerify the Property Verification and Explanation Document\u003c/strong\u003e: Confirm that the brokerage commission amount and the basis for its calculation are listed correctly on the document and receipt.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#common-points-of-confusion\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"common-points-of-confusion\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eCommon Points of Confusion\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003ca href=\"#does-living-in-a-property-automatically-mean-the-residential-rate-applies\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"does-living-in-a-property-automatically-mean-the-residential-rate-applies\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eDoes living in a property automatically mean the residential rate applies?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. The residential brokerage fee schedule does not apply based solely on whether you actually live there. For officetels, separate officetel rate requirements must be considered.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003ca href=\"#is-04-a-non-negotiable-amount\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"is-04-a-non-negotiable-amount\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eIs 0.4% a non-negotiable amount?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. 0.4% is the maximum rate applied to officetels that meet residential requirements in transactions such as leases. This means the rate cannot exceed the statutory cap, but it does not mean you must pay the full 0.4%.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003ca href=\"#are-jeonse-lump-sum-deposit-leases-included-in-rental-agreements-etc\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"are-jeonse-lump-sum-deposit-leases-included-in-rental-agreements-etc\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eAre jeonse (lump-sum deposit leases) included in “rental agreements, etc.”?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGenerally, jeonse and monthly rent leases—as opposed to sales or exchanges—fall under “rental agreements, etc.” Jeonse and monthly rent for officetels that meet residential requirements are calculated based on the 0.4% cap.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003ca href=\"#summary\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"summary\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eSummary\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe reason officetel brokerage fees may seem higher than those for residential homes is not simply because brokers are trying to charge more. Under the system, officetels are classified differently from residential homes, and a separate, reduced rate applies only if certain requirements are met.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTenants should verify the following: “Is the exclusive floor area 85 square meters or less?” “Does it meet the requirements for a dedicated kitchen, toilet, and bathing facilities?” “Has the monthly rent amount been calculated correctly?” and “Is the agreed-upon amount within the cap rate?” By verifying these four points, you can relatively clearly determine why the officetel brokerage fee was set at that amount and whether there has been any overcharging.\u003c/p\u003e\n","tags":["Officetel","Brokerage fee","Real estate contract","Rent calculation","Residential officetel"],"faqs":[{"question":"What is the main reason why brokerage commissions for officetels are higher than those for residential properties?","answer":"This is because, even if an officetel is used for actual residential purposes, it is classified under the real estate brokerage commission system as a property other than a residential home, rather than as a residential home. Only officetels that meet certain requirements are eligible for a separate, reduced commission rate."},{"question":"Does the 0.4% lease tax apply to all residential officetels without exception?","answer":"No. The 0.4% cap on lease rates applies if the unit has a usable floor area of 85 square meters or less and meets the legal requirements for facilities, such as a private kitchen, a private flush toilet, and bathing facilities."},{"question":"Is the 0.4% rate for officetel leases a fixed rate?","answer":"This is a maximum rate, not a fixed rate. Brokerage commissions cannot exceed this limit, and the actual amount is determined through mutual agreement between the client and the licensed real estate broker."},{"question":"What is the maximum brokerage fee for an officetel with a security deposit of 30 million won and a monthly rent of 700,000 won?","answer":"The transaction amount is 30 million won + 700,000 won × 100 = 100 million won. For a lease of an officetel that meets residential requirements, the maximum brokerage fee is 100 million won × 0.4% = 400,000 won."},{"question":"Is the 0.4% rate also applied to officetels rented on a jeonse basis?","answer":"Since a jeonse lease is classified as a lease agreement rather than a sale or exchange, the maximum brokerage fee for an officetel that meets residential requirements is 0.4% of the jeonse deposit."},{"question":"What about officetels with a usable floor area exceeding 85 square meters?","answer":"Officetels with a usable floor area exceeding 85 square meters do not meet the separate relaxation rate requirements for officetels; therefore, they are considered non-residential properties subject to brokerage, and the brokerage fee may be negotiated at a rate of up to 0.9% of the transaction amount."},{"question":"What is the maximum brokerage commission for the sale of an officetel?","answer":"The maximum commission rate for brokerage services involving the sale or exchange of officetels that meet certain requirements—such as having a usable floor area of 85 square meters or less—is 0.5%. If the officetel does not meet these requirements, the commission rate may be subject to negotiation within 0.9%."},{"question":"What should I check if it seems like the brokerage fee is too high?","answer":"You must verify the exclusive area, facility requirements, the formula for calculating the transaction amount, the applicable rate, and the brokerage fee listed in the Property Verification and Explanation Statement. If the rate exceeds the maximum limit, this serves as grounds for requesting an adjustment."}],"sources":[{"url":"https://www.law.go.kr/LSW/lumLsLinkPop.do?lspttninfSeq=106773","title":"National Law Information Center, Enforcement Rules of the Licensed Real Estate Broker Act, Article 20","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.law.go.kr/LSW/expcInfoP.do?expcSeq=342651\u0026mode=2","title":"Legislative Affairs Bureau Interpretation No. 25-0969: Whether Brokerage Fees for Officetels Are Subject to Negotiation","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.easylaw.go.kr/CSP/CnpClsMain.laf?ccfNo=2\u0026cciNo=2\u0026cnpClsNo=2\u0026csmSeq=649","title":"Easy-to-Find Information on Everyday Laws: Calculating Real Estate Brokerage Commissions","type":"source"},{"url":"https://land.seoul.go.kr/land/broker/brokerageCommission.do","title":"Guide to Real Estate Brokerage Commissions in Seoul","type":"source"}],"images":[{"id":101,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6OTY5LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--5eab5d76a7fab2ce6b62f4d444f22bbf4a53a1e1/ChatGPT%20Image%202026%E1%84%82%E1%85%A7%E1%86%AB%207%E1%84%8B%E1%85%AF%E1%86%AF%209%E1%84%8B%E1%85%B5%E1%86%AF%20%E1%84%8B%E1%85%A9%E1%84%92%E1%85%AE%2001_09_04.webp","is_representative":true,"generation_method":"upload","mime_type":"image/webp","original_filename":"ChatGPT Image 2026년 7월 9일 오후 01_09_04.png","translations":{"ko":{"alt":"주택과 오피스텔을 저울에 올려 중개보수 차이와 주거용 조건을 보여주는 벡터 일러스트","caption":"오피스텔과 주택의 중개보수 차이, 주거용 요건 충족 여부에 따른 비용 변화를 시각화한 장면입니다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"Vector illustration comparing brokerage fees for a house and an officetel on a balance scale","caption":"The scene visualizes how officetel brokerage fees can differ from housing fees depending on residential conditions.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"住宅とオフィステルの仲介手数料の違いを天秤で示すベクターイラスト","caption":"オフィステルの住居要件の有無によって仲介手数料が変わる仕組みを表した場面です。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Ilustración vectorial que compara comisiones de corretaje entre una vivienda y un officetel","caption":"La escena muestra cómo las condiciones residenciales de un officetel pueden influir en la comisión de corretaje.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Ilustrasi vektor timbangan yang membandingkan biaya broker rumah dan officetel","caption":"Adegan ini menggambarkan perbedaan biaya broker officetel dan rumah berdasarkan syarat hunian yang terpenuhi.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Ilustração vetorial comparando taxas de corretagem de uma casa e um officetel em uma balança","caption":"A cena mostra como as condições residenciais de um officetel podem alterar a taxa de corretagem.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"以天秤比較住宅與辦公住宅仲介費差異的向量插圖","caption":"畫面呈現辦公住宅是否符合居住條件時，仲介費可能出現不同計算結果。","description":null}}},{"id":102,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6OTc2LCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--2e76797da17f1382fe1fd55d773f3a1f5b3329ff/ChatGPT%20Image%202026%E1%84%82%E1%85%A7%E1%86%AB%207%E1%84%8B%E1%85%AF%E1%86%AF%209%E1%84%8B%E1%85%B5%E1%86%AF%20%E1%84%8B%E1%85%A9%E1%84%92%E1%85%AE%2001_24_28.webp","is_representative":false,"generation_method":"upload","mime_type":"image/webp","original_filename":"ChatGPT Image 2026년 7월 9일 오후 01_24_28.png","translations":{"ko":{"alt":"오피스텔 건물과 설비 체크리스트, 계산기, 협의 장면이 연결된 중개보수 절차 그림","caption":"오피스텔 중개보수는 주거용 요건 확인과 계산, 협의 과정을 거쳐 판단된다는 점을 보여줍니다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"Officetel building linked to facility checklist, calculator, and brokerage fee negotiation scene","caption":"The illustration shows how officetel brokerage fees depend on eligibility checks, calculation, and negotiation.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"オフィステルの建物と設備チェックリスト、計算機、仲介報酬の協議場面","caption":"オフィステルの仲介報酬は、居住用要件の確認、計算、協議を経て判断されることを示しています。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Edificio officetel conectado con lista de requisitos, calculadora y negociación de comisión","caption":"La ilustración muestra que la comisión de un officetel se decide tras revisar requisitos, calcular y negociar.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Gedung officetel terhubung dengan daftar fasilitas, kalkulator, dan negosiasi biaya broker","caption":"Ilustrasi ini menunjukkan biaya broker officetel ditentukan lewat pemeriksaan syarat, perhitungan, dan negosiasi.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Prédio officetel ligado a lista de requisitos, calculadora e negociação da taxa de corretagem","caption":"A ilustração mostra que a corretagem de um officetel depende de requisitos, cálculo e negociação.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"辦公住宅大樓連接設施檢查表、計算機與仲介費協商場景","caption":"插圖呈現辦公住宅仲介費需經居住條件確認、計算與協商後判斷。","description":null}}}],"published_at":"2026-07-09T13:35:53+09:00","updated_at":"2026-07-09T13:35:53+09:00","license":"cc_by","translation_status":"reviewed","available_locales":["ko","en","ja","es"],"data_locales":["ko","en","ja","es","id","pt","zh-hant"],"url":"https://injoys.com/en/articles/officetel-brokerage-fee-higher-reason"}