You're absolutely right that you can negotiate, but one of the consequences of regulatory capture (real estate agents must be licensed by the state, and may be

You're absolutely right that you can negotiate, but one of the consequences of regulatory capture (real estate agents must be licensed by the state, and may be required to complete a transaction) is that agents are disincentivized to negotiate on commission. Also agree that when the market is soft, you're more likely to be able to win a concession.