My current low commission realtor picks (October 2025)
This guide breaks down the best low commission real estate companies in 2025. My goal is to help you understand your options and choose the right fit so you can get better value when you sell your house.
Realtor commissions are usually the largest cost of selling a home. Most traditional agents charge 2.5–3% to list your home. Sellers also typically cover the buyer’s agent fee — another 2.5–3% at closing.
The good news is you don’t have to pay this much. A good low commission real estate agent will provide the same level of service for between 1–2%, which can save you tens of thousands of dollars.
✍️ Why trust me: I’ve been a real estate researcher and writer for 10+ years with a focus on technology and consumer experiences. I also used a low commission realtor (through Clever) to buy my current home, giving me first-hand insight into how these companies work. Learn more.
Top 3 low commission realtors in 2025
1. Top pick: Clever
What's Clever: Clever is a free agent matching platform with more than 20,000 realtors nationwide. Partner agents come from big-name brands and top regional brokerages (like Keller Williams, Compass, and eXp) but agree to offer a special 1.5% listing fee when you connect through Clever. Every agent is vetted and held to strict performance standards to stay in the network.
How Clever works: You sign up and share your goals online or by phone. Clever matches you with 2–3 vetted local agents that fit your criteria — often within minutes. You can compare, interview, and request more options or walk away at any time. If you hire an agent, you’ll get full-service support (MLS listing, photos, showings, and more) for a reduced 1.5% fee at closing, plus the buyer’s agent commission. You pay nothing upfront. If the house fails to sell, you pay nothing. And Clever provides ongoing support to ensure a smooth process.
Who should consider Clever: Any home seller planning to list on the open market with an agent who also wants to save on commission fees. Clever stands out from other brands on my list because it delivers true discount rates (1.5%, same as Redfin) from non-discount agents. In other words, many top local realtors who normally charge 3% will cut their fee in half simply because you connected through Clever instead of reaching out directly.
My personal take: Start here. Clever offers the best agent selection and quality at this price point. It's the easiest way to find a great fit and save money in one step. If you don’t click with the first match, simply move on to the next option — or try another service on this list. Zero risk, fast, easy.
You can try Clever here — it's free and there's no obligation.
2. Runner-up: Redfin
What's Redfin: Redfin is a large discount real estate brokerage with salaried, in-house agents. It's also one of the most-visited home search sites, with ~46M unique visitors per month.[1] Redfin advertises a 1.5–2% listing fee for sellers, depending on your location. If you sell and buy with Redfin, you can get a 0.5% refund resulting in a 1% effective listing fee. Minimum fees vary by market: from $2,000 to $9,000 — $4,400 is the average.[2] In July 2025, Redfin was acquired by Rocket,[3] so I'll be keeping an eye on whether this results in any changes to pricing or services in the coming months.
How Redfin works: You can sign up to connect one or more Redfin agents on its website. If you choose to hire a Redfin agent, they'll be your "Lead Agent" but you'll likely work with a Team and manage the process through your "Redfin Listing Dashboard" on the site or app (the experience is tech-centric). Redfin sellers get full service and support, including pro photos and a few non-standard services like 3D walkthroughs. Like the other options on this list, you only pay the discounted rate (plus the buyer's agent fee, if applicable) if and when you close.
Who should consider Redfin: Sellers who are comfortable with — or even prefer — a tech-centric process. Most communication and logistics run through the Redfin Listing Dashboard, so if you want everything handled by phone or face-to-face, this may not be the best fit. You’ll also likely work with a team rather than a single dedicated agent, which isn’t inherently bad but is worth keeping in mind.
My personal take: Redfin is worth considering alongside Clever if you like to comparison shop and want to explore a fundamentally different option. It’s best suited for straightforward sales in larger metros, where homes move quickly and Redfin has deeper agent coverage. If your property is unusual or your situation is complex, I’d lean toward a more specialized agent or service that can provide tailored support.
3. Also good: Ideal Agent
What's Ideal Agent: Ideal Agent is a free, nationwide agent-matching service that pre-negotiates 2% listing fees with top-producing local realtors. Its network includes about 2,000 agents — smaller than similar services like Clever and UpNest. The company says this is intentional, with a focus on agent quality and experience (it claims to only work with agents in the top 1% of sales volume in their markets). However, the smaller network means fewer options and potentially thinner coverage outside major metros.
How Ideal Agent works: You sign up online or by phone, and Ideal Agent connects you with a single local partner agent. Unlike other similar services, it doesn’t provide multiple matches. There are no upfront fees. If you hire the agent, you’ll pay the pre-negotiated 2% listing fee plus the standard buyer’s agent commission when your home sells. If the agent doesn’t sell your home, you pay nothing.
Who should consider Ideal Agent: Sellers in larger markets who want a high-performing agent, some savings, and don’t mind limited choice. Ideal Agent can also be a useful “add-on” if you’re already comparing options like Clever or Redfin and want another top agent in the mix.
My personal take: As with other matching services and discount brokers, there’s no cost or risk to signing up and seeing who Ideal Agent recommends. Ultimately, finding the right agent matters more than small fee differences. If you have the bandwidth, comparing multiple options helps ensure you end up with the best fit.
Other discount realtors worth considering in 2025
4. UpNest
What's UpNest: UpNest is a free agent matching platform, owned by Realtor.com (acquired in June 2022[4]), with roughly 20,000 partners nationwide. Unlike Clever and Ideal Agent, UpNest doesn’t pre-negotiate a flat listing fee rate with its partner agents. Instead, it runs a mini “auction” where local agents compete for your business by submitting proposals that include their rates, marketing plans, and experience. This can create opportunities for savings, but the discount isn’t guaranteed — many sellers end up seeing listing fees in the 2–2.5% range.
How UpNest works: You sign up online and provide basic details about your home and goals. Within 24 hours, you’ll typically receive 2–5 proposals from local partner agents through your dashboard. Each proposal outlines the agent’s background, commission rate, and services, which you can compare side by side before deciding who to contact. There’s no upfront cost or obligation. If you hire an UpNest agent, you only pay the agreed commission at closing — and if the home doesn’t sell, you owe nothing.
Who should consider UpNest: Sellers who want to comparison shop prices and services directly and like the idea of agents competing head-to-head for their business. UpNest is a good fit if you’re fee-sensitive and willing to put in some extra DIY work evaluating proposals to balance price and service. It’s less predictable than Clever or Redfin since discounts aren’t guaranteed, but it can definitely deliver strong options and solid value — especially in markets with lots of competition for listings among agents.
My personal take: UpNest is worth keeping in your back pocket if options like Clever, Redfin, or Ideal Agent don’t pan out. It has strong agent coverage, but the savings are unpredictable. All other things being equal, start with a platform like Clever that reliably maximizes both savings and agent quality, then turn to backup options like UpNest if your first stop doesn't yield an agent you want to hire.
5. Prevu
What’s Prevu: Prevu is a full-service discount brokerage with in-house agents available in a handful of larger, high-end markets across the US. Prevu advertises full service for a 2% listing commission for home sellers (minimum fees may apply) and up to 1% cash back at closing for buyers in qualifying home purchases.
How Prevu works: You sign up online or by phone and get paired with a local Prevu agent. Agents provide typical full-service support — plus a few extras, like social media ads and 3D virtual tours — with no upfront fees. Sellers pay a 2% listing fee (plus any buyer’s agent commission) at closing, and nothing if the home doesn’t sell. Buyers can get up to 1% cash back at closing, but rebate eligibility and amount depend on whether the seller offers a full or partial buyer’s agent commission.
Who should consider Prevu: Sellers and buyers in Prevu markets — especially with those with higher-priced homes — who want some commission savings and are comfortable with a more tech-driven experience. Because Prevu focuses on higher-end metros where sales are generally more consistent, the trade-off of less agent selection and specialization carries less risk. Just make sure the agent they suggest is a good fit, experience- and personality-wise.
My personal take: The best value here is for home buyers. If you're able to get the full 1% rebate, that's a lot of savings and not many companies are offering that much these days. The listing package is less competitive now that Prevu has upped the fee to 2% (used to be 1.5%) but still offers solid value if you like the agent they match you with.
6. Houwzer and Trelora (Newfound)
What are Houwzer and Trelora: Houwzer and Trelora are sister full-service discount brokerages under parent company, Newfound. Houwzer acquired Trelora in 2022[5] and launched Newfound in 2023[6] to manage both brands. Houwzer and Trelora offer full service and support via a Team-based approach for a flat 1% listing fee with no minimum. Houwzer operates in the Mid-Atlantic and Florida, while Trelora has a wider footprint that includes the Carolinas, Midwest, South, and West Coast.
How it works: You sign up online or by phone and schedule a listing consultation. Houwzer and Trelora use a team-based service model, so you’ll work with different specialists at each stage of the sale — pricing, photography, listing, negotiation, and closing. There are no upfront fees. You only pay the 1% listing fee (plus any applicable buyer’s agent commission) at closing. There are no minimums, so the fee is always 1% regardless of your sale price.
Who should consider them: Sellers in covered metros who want maximum savings and are comfortable working with multiple team members rather than a single agent. Given the team model and limited agent selection, these brands are best suited to sellers in larger, more stable markets with typical homes for the area (in terms of price, style, and size).
My personal take: If your top priority is savings, a true 1% listing fee from an established brand like Houwzer or Trelora is hard to ignore. If they're in your area, they're definitely worth considering against my top picks. Just keep in mind the experience is very different from working one-on-one with a traditional agent. The team-based approach isn’t inherently a drawback — both brands pitch it as a strength — but it's not for everyone.
What's a low commission real estate agent?
A low commission real estate agent or broker is any agent willing to list and sell your home for less than the typical commission rate of a traditional real estate agent in your area. Most traditional agents charge listing fees between 2.5–3%. The best low commission real estate brokers offer the same service and support for as little as 1.5%. This is a huge value, because it's difficult to negotiate lower commission rates on your own.
Types of low commission real estate agents
Low commission real estate agents can be categorized into three main types: full-service agents, discount agents, and flat fee agents.
- Full-service agents: Traditional realtors who offer comprehensive services, including marketing, negotiations, and closing support, but at a reduced commission (e.g., 1.5% instead of 2.5–3%).
- Discount agents: Provide many of the same services as full-service agents but may offer fewer extras, such as staging or premium marketing, in exchange for lower commission rates.
- Flat-fee agents: Charge a set fee instead of a percentage of the home’s sale price, typically offering minimal support beyond listing the property on the MLS.
Understanding these categories can help you choose the best option for your needs and budget.
What is the lowest commission a realtor will take?
Low commission realtors may charge rates as low as 1–1.5%, which represents the lower end of the market spectrum, compared to the typical 2-3% charged by seller's agents.
The actual rate you might secure, however, depends on several factors:
- Type of agent. Full-service agents, providing comprehensive support throughout the selling process, will generally charge more than those offering limited services. Depending on your needs, the additional support from a full-service agent might justify a higher fee.
- Property characteristics. The likelihood of an agent accepting a lower rate can increase if you sell a higher-priced home or a property in a sought-after location expected to sell quickly. It's advisable to negotiate rates based on these factors and compare offers from multiple agents to secure the best deal.
- Local market conditions. The willingness of agents to reduce their commission may be influenced by the time of year and market activity. For instance, during peak selling seasons like spring and early summer, when buyer interest is heightened, agents might be less inclined to negotiate lower rates.
These considerations should guide your discussions with potential agents, helping you navigate and possibly reduce the costs associated with selling your home.
» MORE: Steps to negotiating realtor fees
What's the average real estate commission rate nationwide?
The average real estate commission rate in the U.S. is approximately 5.44%, according to Clever Real Estate's annual survey of agents. This rate typically covers the entire commission fee, usually covered by the seller.
This rate would translate to a commission of about $24,000 for a home sold at the U.S. median price of $450,000.
However, it’s important to note that real estate agent fees aren't fixed, and remain fully negotiable. Fees can also vary depending on location, property type, and market conditions.
Utilizing a low commission realtor like Clever could offer substantial savings. For example, selling a $450,000 home with a 1.5% listing fee instead of the typical 2.5-3% fee could reduce your commission expenses by around $6,000, highlighting the financial benefits of choosing a low commission real estate company.
Also, following the NAR settlement, there has been a notable shift in commission rates. Redfin reports that the average commission for buyer's agents decreased to 2.34% in October 2024, down from 2.62% in early 2024, reflecting a trend toward lower fees.[7]
NAR lawsuit settlement changes are here!
The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) has agreed to settle its lawsuit related to broker commissions. Key changes from the lawsuit include:
- New MLS rules: Listing agents can no longer include buyer's agent commissions in MLS listings. This change stops the practice of predetermined fees.
- Mandatory agreements: Buyer's agents must enter into written agreements with buyers that clearly disclose compensation terms and aren't open-ended. These agreements also ensure that fees are fully negotiable and cap compensation at the agreed amount.
- Impact on negotiations: The settlement could lead to more negotiation steps, with buyers possibly asking sellers to cover part of the buyer’s agent fees, influencing deal outcomes.
- Potential for lower fees: The shift could reduce overall commission rates as buyers and sellers negotiate more directly over fees, potentially lowering average commission costs below the current 5-6%.
- Settlement details: Includes a $418 million compensation fund over four years for eligible sellers.[8]
Agent Teal Clise from Baltimore describes a smart strategy for handling new commission rules.
"We advise our clients to be ready to negotiate the buyer’s agent commission and not disclose the amount upfront," she says. "We encourage buyer’s agents to include their compensation requests in their offers, which puts our sellers in a stronger position. This strategy means buyer’s agents must bring their best offers to earn their commission, rather than expecting high fees for lackluster performance."
The new rules are changing how the market works, benefiting realtors who charge lower commissions as everything becomes more open and competitive.
Real estate agent Brandi Brooks from Memphis shares her experience: "Sellers are curious about the effects of not offering a commission. But after I explain it to them, they usually decide to keep offering commissions to the buyer's agents, especially when their homes are taking longer to sell."
⚖️ Key changes from the NAR settlement
1. More negotiations. Ultimately, this lawsuit settlement could introduce another step in negotiations between sellers, buyers, and their agents.
For example, a buyer might make an offer on a home and request that the seller pay half of their buyer's agent's fee as part of the concessions. This request would influence the seller's decision to accept, counter, or reject the offer.
2. Overall commission rates may fall. The settlement could shift part or all of the buyer's agent commission cost from sellers to buyers, potentially reducing the average real estate commission rate as more buyers negotiate lower fees.
Buyers will likely emphasize shopping for agents, prioritizing those offering competitive rates, superior service, and expertise. They might also be quicker to try to negotiate a lower rate. As a result, total commission costs might drop from the current 5-6% range to below 5%.
We think that low commission realtors are well-positioned to benefit from these changes as buyers increasingly seek competitive rates and more transparency in the negotiation process.
Who should use a low commission real estate agent?
Most home sellers can benefit from working with a low commission agent matching service, like Clever, that connects you with top-rated agents at pre-negotiated rates. This is especially relevant given that 90% of recent sellers chose to work with a real estate agent to sell their homes, according to the National Association of Realtors’ 2025 survey, showing just how important professional support still is.[9]
By working with a traditional agent, you can avoid the pitfalls of a FSBO (for sale by owner) transaction, which has become increasingly rare (only 6% of all sellers go that route).[10]
Discount real estate brokerages like Redfin and Homie are a slightly different story. They have in-house agents. Only consider hiring a discount brokerage with in-house agents if:
- An agent matching service like Clever can’t find you an agent you like
- You’re confident that the discount agent’s experience and personality are a good fit
- Your home is in great condition, and there’s lots of buyer demand in your area
- Your home isn’t unique in your area in terms of price, size, or features
- You expect your sale to be relatively straightforward with minimal negotiating
- You’re a relatively experienced home seller and aren’t afraid of some DIY
- You’re willing to sacrifice some personalized support for your savings (remember: you can avoid this by going the agent matching service route)
Regardless, you should always shop around and compare options. The most important thing is finding the right agent for the job. You won't save money with a 1.5% listing fee if the agent underprices your home by $20,000.
Pros and cons of low commission realtors
Pros
- Big cost savings
- Some provide full service
- Professional support
Cons
- You may get less personalized service
- Potential for high fees
Choosing a low commission realtor can offer significant financial benefits, but it’s important to weigh both the advantages and potential drawbacks carefully. Here’s a detailed look at the pros and cons:
✅ Pros: Cost savings, full-service
The primary advantage of working with a low commission realtor is the potential to save thousands of dollars on real estate commissions. Traditional realtors typically charge a commission rate of 2.5–3%, but with a low commission realtor, you might only pay 1–1.5%.
The savings can be substantial, particularly with higher-priced homes. For example, a 1% saving on a $1 million home equals $10,000, whereas the same percentage on a $350,000 home results in a $3,500 saving.
Despite these lower fees, many low commission realtors still provide a full range of services. They'll list your property on the MLS, coordinate showings and open houses, negotiate offers, handle all the necessary contracts and paperwork, and guide you through the closing process. Clever Real Estate exemplifies this, with numerous customers reporting significant savings without compromising on service quality.
Choosing a reputable low commission brand ensures you receive the same comprehensive support you would expect from a higher-priced agent, covering all aspects of the sale from start to finish.
❌ Cons: Some offer less-personalized service
Some low commission brokerages operate on a team-based model, where different team members handle various aspects of your sale. This approach can sometimes result in less personalized service and potential miscommunication, as you may not have a single dedicated agent overseeing all elements of your transaction.
Low commission models are growing, forcing traditional brokerages to adapt. While this creates savings for clients, buyers must be more cautious, especially first-timers unfamiliar with real estate transactions. - Robert Washington, broker at Savvy Buyers Realty.
There's also the potential for high minimum fees. In certain markets, some low commission realtors work for brokerages that impose these fees, which can reach up to $8,500.
Fees like this could negate the savings from lower commission rates, especially if your property is at the lower end of the market price range.
Understand your potential savings
| Company | Listing Fee | Commission Cost | You Save |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Agent | 2.82% | $10,251 | - |
| Clever Real Estate | 1.50% | $5,453 | $4,798 |
| Redfin | 1.50% | $5,453 | $4,798 |
| Ideal Agent | 2.00% | $7,270 | $2,981 |
Low commission agents can help you save thousands without sacrificing support.
This tool estimates how much you can save on listing fees by using a low commission real estate agent instead of a traditional full-commission agent.
- Home sale price: Enter your expected sale price to see your estimated commission costs.
- Select your state: This helps us apply the typical listing fee in your area, based on real data from Clever Real Estate’s nationwide realtor commission survey.
- Estimated savings: We compare the listing commission cost from a traditional agent (typically around 2.82%) to those charged by major low commission brokerages, like Clever, Redfin, and Ideal Agent.
Note: This calculator only shows listing agent fees. You may still need to pay a buyer’s agent commission, which averages around 2.75% nationally.
Using a lower commission rate can save you thousands—without sacrificing service or support. When you’re ready, we’ll connect you with top-rated agents in your area who offer these discounted rates.
How to choose a low commission real estate agent
Choosing the right low commission real estate agent is more about finding the right agent than automatically defaulting to the lowest price point. Reputation matters: 35% of recent home sellers said an agent’s reputation was the most important factor in their decision, compared to just 4% who prioritized commission rates, according to NAR’s 2025 survey.[9]
I recommend you give the most weight to factors like customer ratings, service quality (and approach), agent experience, and personality.
Step 1. Research agents
Start by researching potential agents who offer the services you need. Their online presence—website, social media, and reviews on platforms like Google and Zillow can provide insight into their service quality and specialties.
Additionally, verify their success with homes similar to yours and look for any potential red flags in their track record, such as poor communication or limited support.
🛒 Pro tip: Shop around!
If you can, it's always a good idea to try out a few different services to see how they stack up. Comparing several options will increase your chances of finding the best fit for your budget and specific needs and getting a better sale outcome.
Step 2. Interview and evaluate options
Meet with at least 2-3 agents to compare. Discuss their approach to pricing, marketing, and negotiations. Assess their communication style to ensure they listen and respond to your needs effectively.
Remember that post-sale support can be just as important as the selling process. Confirm if the agent will help coordinate inspections, appraisals, and the closing timeline. Also, ask if they provide referrals for other needed services, which can facilitate a smoother transition after the sale.
Finally, discuss their commission structure and any additional fees that might apply.
Step 3. Compare and choose an agent
After conducting thorough research, interviews, and evaluations, compare your findings to determine which agent best suits your needs. Consider all aspects from service quality to fee structure and from market expertise to post-sale support.
This holistic approach will help you select a low commission realtor who will save you money and provide a stress-free and positive experience.
Alternatives to low commission realtors
While low commission realtors can offer significant savings, they may not be the best fit for every seller. Here are some alternatives to consider:
Traditional real estate agents
Traditional real estate agents charge a higher commission rate, typically between 2.5% to 3% of the sale price (not including the buyer's agent fee).
While this may seem like a significant expense, traditional agents often provide a high level of personalized service and may have more experience and local knowledge. They can offer in-depth market analysis, extensive marketing efforts, and dedicated support throughout the selling process.
Traditional agents argue for their model’s value over low commission agents. Alexei Morgado from Lexawise explains:
Traditional commission structures motivate agents to secure the best sale terms, attracting experienced agents who invest heavily in marketing and client service. This comprehensive approach can expedite sales and achieve better prices.
Dustin Parker, CEO and co-founder of Archie, echoes this perspective, noting that while 6% commission is becoming less common, some agents still justify it by offering a full suite of services.
They provide elite marketing, renovation guidance, negotiation expertise, and concierge-level service. It’s a premium experience, and some clients still value that.
If you value a hands-on approach and expert guidance, a traditional real estate agent might be worth the higher commission fee. Remember that some low commission realtors, like Clever Real Estate, can provide these same benefits at a lower rate.
Selling without a realtor
For sellers comfortable managing their own sale, going the For Sale By Owner (FSBO) route might be a viable option. This method can significantly reduce or even eliminate commission costs.
However, it's crucial to understand the challenges and risks associated with this route:
- Market trends: FSBO sales fell to a historical low of 6% in 2024, indicating that many homeowners feel more confident selling with professional assistance.[10]
- Financial considerations: According to a Clever Real Estate study, homes sold by agents typically fetch nearly $50,000 more on average compared to FSBO sales. This finding is supported by a recent industry study from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), which shows a similar disparity of $55,000.[11] Agents can often secure the full asking price or higher, whereas FSBO sellers may need to reduce their initial asking price to attract buyers.
- Negotiation challenges: Without a realtor's negotiating expertise, FSBO sellers might struggle to achieve optimal sale terms, potentially leaving money on the table. You may also find it hard to deal with all of the paperwork you need to sell without a realtor.
One effective tool for FSBO sellers is using flat fee MLS companies, which allow you to list your property on the multiple listing service for a fixed fee, usually between $200 and $1,000.
This approach helps you reach a broad audience of potential buyers by posting your home on Zillow and other top real estate websites. However, it's worth noting that flat fee MLS companies typically don't offer additional services like marketing or negotiations.
If you're confident in handling showings, negotiations, and the closing process, and aware of the various risks, then selling FSBO with flat fee MLS listing support could be a cost-effective way to sell your home.
Cash home buyers
Cash home buyers are companies or investors who purchase properties directly with cash, often offering below-market value. All-cash buyers pay, on average, 10% less than mortgage buyers financing the purchase with a mortgage.[12]
Although convenient, cash sales are relatively uncommon. According to the National Association of Realtors, cash sales accounted for just 26% of transactions in March 2025, down from 32% in February and 28% in March of last year.[13]
While sellers often receive less than they would in a traditional sale, cash buyers offer speed and convenience that can be ideal for urgent situations. Cash sales generally close within 2–3 weeks, and buyers usually require no repairs, appraisals, or inspections.
These benefits make cash home buyers a good option for those facing time-sensitive circumstances, such as inherited properties, divorce, or financial distress, where a fast, hassle-free transaction is a top priority.
⚡️ Get the best cash offer for your home. We recommend starting with Clever Offers. It connects you with multiple cash buyers, allowing you to compare offers and choose the best one for a quick, stress-free sale. Enjoy the convenience and control of selecting the best cash offer, with no obligation to accept. Fill out this form to get cash offers today!
Next steps for finding a low commission realtor
The best way to get started is to contact a few low commission companies and interview some real estate agents! No matter the brand, talking to agents is always free and without obligation, so there’s no risk in putting the feelers out there.
I recommend starting with Clever Real Estate because it offers the best rates and service quality, is available nationwide, and allows you to compare agents before choosing the right fit.
Key benefits of Clever:
- Matches you with multiple top-performing local agents from name-brand brokerages like Keller Williams and Century 21
- Let's you interview multiple agents and choose the best fit, request more matches, or walk away
- Gets you full service for just 1.5%, no matter where you’re selling
💰 Top local agents, incredible savings.
Try Clever’s free matching service, list with the best agents in your area for just 1.5%.
View AgentsFAQ about low commission realtors
Are low commission realtors legit?
Yes, low commission realtors are legit. Many are top-performing, full-service agents, some of which choose to charge less in exchange for a higher volume of clients. For example, Clever Real Estate connects sellers with agents from major brokerages like RE/MAX and Keller Williams who work for just a 1.5% listing fee, without cutting corners on service quality.
Legitimacy isn’t about how much a realtor charges. Instead, it’s about experience, local market knowledge, and client support. And many low commission agents deliver on all three, while helping you save thousands.
What is the best discount real estate broker company?
Our top pick is Clever Real Estate. It offers full-service support from agents at name-brand brokerages, but for a 1.5% listing fee, one of the lowest in the industry. Unlike Redfin or Ideal Agent, Clever lets you compare multiple agent matches and doesn't lock you into a single option. Other notable companies include Redfin (1.5% fee) and Houwzer (1%).
Can you negotiate prices with realtors?
You can — real estate commission is always negotiable — but it’s generally not easy to do independently. Agents have a lot of expenses to cover and generally won’t be willing to drop their rates too much, especially for one-off customers. You may have more luck if:
- You have a super high-value home: $1M+ will still be a big payday for the agent, even at the reduced commission rate.
- There aren’t many people selling in your area: agents may be willing to lower rates to be competitive with other agents and secure new business.
- There’s a ton of buyer demand in your area: your home will likely sell fast and high, so that means less effort and time for the agent.
The easier way is to go through a company, like Clever Real Estate, that negotiates lower commission rates with realtors for you. These brands have more leverage, because they send a steady volume of new business to the agents they work with at no up-front cost. That means you get lower rates without sacrificing service (or negotiating with a professional negotiator). You can learn more about negotiating real estate commissions here.
As a seller, do I need to pay the buyer’s agent fee?
Sellers are no longer required to offer a buyer’s agent commission upfront, due to changes from NAR's 2024 lawsuit settlement, which resulted in major realtor commission changes. However, that doesn’t mean you’ll never pay it. Buyer agents can still request compensation as part of their offer (and usually do), and many buyers will ask the seller to cover it during negotiations.
So while the rules have changed, most sellers still end up covering the buyer’s agent fee, either directly or indirectly. That’s why finding a low commission listing agent is more important than ever if you want to keep more of your home equity.
What percentage do most realtors charge?
Most real estate agents charge a commission of 2.5–3% to list and sell a home. Buyer’s agents generally expect a similar amount for bringing a qualified buyer, although buyer’s agent commissions have dipped slightly since the NAR lawsuit settlement. In total, most home sellers still end up paying about 5–6% in real estate commissions. The nationwide average is currently 5.44%, according to a study by Clever Real Estate. You can find the average commission rate in your state here.
Fortunately, you don’t have to settle for paying 5–6%. Choosing a low commission realtor can save you thousands — especially on the listing agent side. For example, both Clever Real Estate and Redfin offer listing fees as low as 1.5%, helping you save 1–1.5% compared to traditional agents.
Do real estate agents get all the commission?
No, realtors usually don’t keep the full commission. When a home sells, the seller typically pays the commission, which is split between the listing agent and the buyer’s agent. Each agent then shares their portion with their brokerage.
The brokerage’s cut can range from 10% to 50% or more, depending on the agent’s experience and agreement with them. For example, if an agent earns a $20,000 commission and has a 50/50 split, they would keep $10,000, and the brokerage would take the other $10,000. Newer agents often start with lower splits (meaning the brokerage keeps a bigger share) and move to higher splits as they gain experience and close more deals.
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The Anytime Estimate team is committed to transparency in all our reviews and guides. Our editorial team rigorously vets the experiences and data presented to ensure accurate and unbiased information.
About the author
This article was written by Jamie Ayers, a writer and researcher with more than a decade of experience covering real estate. In recent years, he has spent hundreds of hours interviewing experts and analyzing real estate technology platforms and low-commission brokerages, publishing detailed guides that compare these services.
Jamie also has first-hand experience as a homebuyer. When purchasing his first home, he chose an agent through Clever Real Estate and saved $2,000 on commission after closing. Read his full review of the experience here.
About the editor
This article was edited by Steve Nicastro, Managing Editor at Clever Real Estate, a leading real estate education platform for buyers, sellers, and investors. Before joining Clever, Steve worked as a licensed real estate agent in Charleston, S.C., where he closed more than $6 million in sales during 2020 and 2021.
Over his career, Steve has been involved in more than 30 property transactions worth over $8 million — including 20 as a realtor, seven as an investor, and three personal sales, from traditional listings to for-sale-by-owner (FSBO) deals.