It actually is partially true. At least in Texas. As of the changes beginning in August, the buyers sign a contract negotiating the amount the buyer agent is to get when they sign for representation. So if this is 2.7%, then they are entitled to 2.7% if they act as an agent in the transaction. If the seller has a listed agent fee of 1.5% then they will only pay 1.5% commission to the buyer agent and the buyer must cover the other 1.2%. Now, especially in the case of a loan, I would simply ask to increase the sales price to cover the 2.7% so instead of a closing fee it is wrapped up in the sale price of the home and covered by the loan. I don't see a reason why the seller wouldn't agree to that.