Low commission real estate companies offer an alternative to traditional listing fees. They charge less than the typical 2.5–3% and some provide full-service options as well. Imagine being able to sell your home with top-notch service and get a great deal on price.
Our guide compares nationwide low commission options available in 2026. Instead of just focusing on rates, we also take a close look at how these services work in practice and where you may see tradeoffs.
For most sellers, the biggest differences come down to two factors: the listing fee and minimums you’ll pay, and the service model (if you work with a single dedicated agent, a team-based brokerage, or a matching platform).
Each company was evaluated using consistent criteria, including pricing transparency, agent selection, service approach, and verified customer feedback, to help you understand which options are likely to fit different selling situations.
🛡️ Why you should trust us
We don't rank low commission realtors based on who does the most marketing. We rank them based on which option keeps more money in your pocket and avoids bad outcomes.
Here is the research behind this article:
- Real-world expertise. Our writers and editors have spent a decade covering real estate, personal finance, and consumer tech. Editor Steve Nicastro is a former real estate agent who has bought and sold over 20 homes. He's also used low-commission services personally (as both an agent and a seller), which gives us a clear view of what looks good on paper versus what holds up at the closing table.
- Large-scale review analysis. Our team analyzed thousands of verified customer reviews from Google, BBB, Trustpilot, and Consumer Affairs. We focus on patterns across reviews, not one-off situations. We focus specifically on communication quality, negotiation outcomes, and how often sellers reported feeling pressured or misled.
- Industry context. We track changes that affect how these companies operate and price their services — including the 2024 NAR settlement and its effects on commission structures. When something materially affects sellers' value, we update the rankings.
How we evaluate and rank companies
Each company in this guide was scored on five weighted criteria:
- Listing fee and minimums: The actual out-of-pocket cost to sellers, including any minimums that apply in lower-priced markets
- Service model: Whether you work with a dedicated agent, a team, or a matching platform, and what's included at the stated fee
- Agent quality and selection: The size of the agent network, brokerage affiliations, and whether you can compare or choose your agent
- Fee transparency: Whether pricing is clearly disclosed upfront, without hidden charges or variable conditions
- Customer experience: Patterns in verified reviews across Google, BBB, Trustpilot, and Consumer Affairs, with a focus on communication, negotiation outcomes, and post-sale support
We cross-checked all pricing claims against each company's public pricing pages, listing agreements where available, and market-level commission data. Rankings are updated when companies change their fees, service models, or operational status.
Disclosure: Anytime Estimate is affiliated with Clever Real Estate. Clever is ranked #1 in this guide based on our independent evaluation criteria, which are documented below. We earn a referral fee when readers connect with agents through Clever, but this does not influence our rankings, and we evaluate all companies using the same methodology.
Top 3 low commission realtors in 2026
1. Top pick: Clever
What is Clever Real Estate? Clever connects sellers with local real estate agents who agree to list for a reduced 1.5% fee (with a $3,000 minimum) when customers sign up through the platform. Its partner agents come from national brokerages and strong regional firms like Keller Williams or Century 21, and participation requires meeting performance and review standards. Clever operates in all 50 states plus D.C. and works with roughly 14,000 partner agents nationwide.[1]
How it works: After signing up online or by phone, you're usually introduced to two or three local agents. You can interview them, compare pricing and service, request more matches, or walk away. Hire an agent and you get standard full-service listing support, plus a reduced listing fee at closing. There are no upfront costs, and you don't pay if your home doesn't sell.
Customer reviews: Clever has a strong third-party review profile — 4.9/5 across 4,431 verified reviews on Trustpilot, Google, and BBB combined, with an A+ BBB rating. Recurring themes in positive reviews include agent responsiveness and the straightforwardness of the fee structure.[2][3]
Best for: Sellers who want to compare multiple agents before committing and want a predictable, locked-in listing fee.
Tradeoffs: The $3,000 minimum means sellers of homes priced below about $200,000 won't see the full benefit of the 1.5% rate. Service quality also depends on the individual agent you choose, and availability can be thinner in rural markets.
Editor’s take: Clever is our top pick for most sellers because it combines a fixed reduced fee with the ability to compare multiple local agents before committing. It's a strong starting point if you want savings without giving up agent choice.
You can try Clever here: It's free, with no obligation.
2. Runner-up: Redfin
What is Redfin? Redfin is a discount brokerage with salaried, in-house agents and a technology-first selling experience. Listing fees start at 1.5%, but minimums vary by market, ranging from roughly $2,000 to $9,000, which means the effective rate on lower-priced homes can be meaningfully higher than advertised. In San Francisco, for example, the minimum is $9,000, so the 1.5% rate applies only to homes above $600,000.[4] Sellers who also buy with Redfin may qualify for a partial rebate. Note: Redfin was acquired by Rocket Companies in July 2025 and now operates as Redfin Powered by Rocket.[5]
How Redfin works: You get matched with a Redfin agent and manage most of the process through Redfin's online dashboard. Sellers receive full-service support, including photography and listing coordination, though you'll often work with a team rather than a single dedicated agent. Redfin covers 100+ markets, though agents aren't available in Montana, North Dakota, or Wyoming, and rural areas within covered states are typically served by partner agents from outside brokerages rather than Redfin employees.
Customer reviews: Redfin averages 2.6/5 across 1,476 third-party reviews, a notably weaker profile than the other options on this list.
It carries a customer rating of 1.14 on the BBB, and its limited Trustpilot profile averages just 2.3/5 from 30 reviews. Yelp shows a broader sample — 3.4/5 across 1,100 reviews — with communication and team consistency as the most common complaints. The Redfin app has a 4.8/5 rating from over 1 million App Store reviews, though this reflects the home search tool, not the brokerage's service quality.[6][7]
Best for: Sellers in large, competitive metro areas who are comfortable managing the process digitally and don’t mind a team-based approach.
Tradeoffs: The variable minimums can significantly reduce savings on lower-priced homes, and you'll have less flexibility in agent selection than with a matching service. The team-based model means you may interact with multiple people across the transaction.
Editor’s take: Redfin works well when speed, structure, and scale matter more than customization. If your home is in a fast-moving market and you’re comfortable with a tech-first experience, it’s a practical alternative worth considering.
3. Also good: Ideal Agent
What is Ideal Agent? Ideal Agent matches sellers with a single high-performing local agent who agrees to a pre-negotiated 2% listing fee, with a $3,000 minimum on homes priced below $150,000. Its network is smaller than comparable platforms — roughly 2,000 agents — with a stated focus on top producers. The company claims nationwide coverage, though availability is thinner outside major metro areas.
How it works: After signing up, Ideal Agent connects you with one agent rather than multiple options. If you hire them, you pay the agreed listing fee at closing. There are no upfront costs.
Customer reviews: Ideal Agent has 6387 reviews with a 5/5 rating on Trustpilot, plus a 5.0 customer rating at the BBB with 117 customer reviews.[8] The vast majority of Trustpilot reviews are labeled "Invited," meaning the company actively solicits them after the transaction, which is standard practice but worth noting.
Best for: Sellers who want a strong agent recommendation without comparing multiple matches and whose home is priced above $150,000.
Tradeoffs: There's only one agent match, and the 2% fee is higher than Clever or Redfin. Availability and agent quality can vary significantly outside major markets; some users in less active areas report being matched with agents who decline the engagement due to the reduced commission.
Editor’s take: Ideal Agent can work well if you value agent quality over choice and don't want to comparison shop. The fee is higher than alternatives, but the review data suggests strong customer outcomes in active markets.
Other discount realtors worth considering in 2026
4. UpNest
What is UpNest? UpNest is a free agent matching platform, owned by Realtor.com (acquired in June 2022[9]), with roughly 20,000 partners nationwide. Rather than offering a pre-negotiated listing fee, this competitive setup can surface discounted rates — though savings aren't guaranteed and average around 2.5% on the listing side, per UpNest's own disclosures. The platform claims availability in all 50 states, though rural coverage depends on agent density in each area.
How it works: After signing up online and sharing basic details about your home, UpNest typically delivers two to five agent proposals within about 24 hours. You can review each side by side and decide which agents to contact. There are no upfront fees — you only pay the agreed commission at closing if your home sells.
Customer reviews: UpNest's review footprint is concentrated on Shopper Approved, a platform used primarily by companies that actively solicit reviews at the point of transaction. Across Shopper Approved and Google combined, UpNest aggregates 8,325 reviews at a 4.7/5 rating. Google shows 299 reviews at 4.6/5. One important flag: UpNest currently holds a 3.4 rating from the BBB due to unanswered complaints — several third-party review sites still incorrectly cite an outdated A+ rating, so treat any source making that claim as stale.[10]
Best for: Sellers who want to actively compare agent pricing and service details and are comfortable evaluating multiple proposals on their own.
Tradeoffs: Listing fee discounts aren't guaranteed, as you're relying on local market competition to drive rates down. UpNest also requires more hands-on comparison than fixed-fee platforms, and its third-party review profile is less robust than Clever or Ideal Agent.
Editor’s take: UpNest can be useful as a secondary option if fixed-fee services don't deliver a good match. But go in knowing the savings aren't locked in upfront, and verify the BBB rating yourself rather than relying on what other review sites say.
5. Prevu
What is Prevu? Prevu is a full-service discount brokerage with in-house agents operating in select higher-priced metro markets across 13 states plus D.C., including New York, Boston, Denver, Seattle, and parts of California, Texas, and Florida. The company charges sellers a 2% listing fee, with minimums that vary by market and aren't publicly disclosed.[11] In New York City, the minimum is $12,500, meaning the 2% rate only applies on homes above $625,000. On the buyer side, Prevu offers up to 1% cash back at closing in most markets, or up to 2% in New York City where commission structures are higher.
How it works: Sellers sign up online or by phone and are paired with a local Prevu agent who provides standard full-service support (pricing guidance, marketing, and transaction management), along with extras like social media advertising and 3D virtual tours. Sellers pay the listing fee at closing and nothing if the home doesn't sell. Buyer rebates are subject to a $10,000 minimum commission threshold and lender approval, and are most meaningful on higher-priced transactions above $1.25 million.
Customer reviews: Prevu has a smaller review footprint than the other companies here. Google shows 635 reviews at 5/5. Prevu has no BBB profile, no Trustpilot presence, and no Consumer Affairs listing. The small review volume and absence from major platforms makes it harder to identify patterns across a large sample of transactions.
Best for: Sellers and buyers in Prevu’s covered metro areas who are comfortable with a more tech-forward experience and want modest commission savings, particularly on higher-priced homes.
Tradeoffs to know: Prevu is unavailable in roughly 37 states, making it a non-starter for most sellers. The $12,500 NYC minimum and the buyer rebate's $10,000 commission threshold mean the value proposition is most relevant on homes well above the median price. The review base is too small to draw reliable conclusions about service consistency.
Editor's take: Prevu's strongest value is on the buyer side in high-commission markets like New York City, where the rebate can be meaningful. For most sellers outside major metros, it won't be an option - and even within its footprint, check whether your home price clears the minimum before counting on the advertised rate.
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, who provide comprehensive support throughout the selling process, 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 increases if you sell a higher-priced home or a property in a highly 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, such as spring and early summer, when buyer interest is heightened, agents may be less inclined to negotiate lower rates.
These considerations should guide your discussions with potential agents, helping you navigate and potentially reduce the costs of 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. ranges from 5% to 6%. This rate typically covers the entire commission fee, usually covered by the seller.
This rate would translate to a commission of about $20,000 to $30,000 for a home sold at the U.S. median price.
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 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.
📈 Buyer agent fees rise after NAR settlement
Following the NAR lawsuit settlement, there was an initial dip in buyer’s agent commission rates, but that trend quickly reversed.
According to Redfin data, average buyer agent commissions dipped slightly in late 2024 before rebounding in early 2025.[12] As of 2026, buyer agent fees are averaging roughly 2.6–2.7%, which is in line with or slightly higher than pre-settlement levels.
While compensation is now more transparent and explicitly negotiable, it has led to limited downward pressure on fees. Many buyers continue to value professional representation and are willing to factor those costs into the overall transaction.
For sellers, the key takeaway is that buyer agent commissions remain a meaningful part of total selling costs. When evaluating low-commission listing options, consider how listing fees, buyer agent compensation, and negotiation strategies interact under the current rules.
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.[13]
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).[13]
Discount real estate brokerages like Redfin — which uses salaried, in-house agents rather than a matching model — are a slightly different story. 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, licensed real estate broker in the Tampa Bay, FL market and founder of Savvy Buyers Realty. Washington has been an active broker in the Tampa area since 2018.
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 | 2.88% | $10,294 | - |
| Clever Real Estate | 1.50% | $5,362 | $4,933 |
| Redfin | 1.50% | $5,362 | $4,933 |
| Ideal Agent | 2.00% | $7,149 | $3,146 |
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 2.88%) 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 2.82% nationally.[14]
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.[13]
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, founder and CEO of The Parker Group (a real estate brokerage in Delaware and Maryland with over $1 billion in residential transactions) echoes this perspective. He notes 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.[15]
- Financial considerations: Homes sold by agents typically fetch more on average compared to FSBO sales: one study found that FSBO homes sold for a median of $360,000, compared to $425,000 for agent-assisted sales.[13] 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.[16]
In October 2025, all-cash buyers accounted for roughly 29% of home purchases, a share that has remained consistently above one-quarter of the market in recent years.[17]
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.
Next steps: How to find a low commission realtor
Your next best step is to speak with a few agents, compare your options, and secure a lower fee without compromising service.
1. Use the calculator to set your savings goal
- Plug your expected sale price into our savings calculator.
- Note the difference between a traditional fee and the low commission options on this page.
- Decide what “worth it” looks like for you in dollars, not just percentages.
2. Compare options
For the strongest results, line Clever up against at least one other brand on this list, such as Redfin or Ideal Agent. When you talk to agents, compare:
- Their experience with homes like yours
- Their marketing plan and pricing strategy
- The exact fee they'll charge you in writing
3. Interview and pick your agent
Talk to two or three agents before you decide. Ask:
- How many listings they have closed in your area in the past year
- How they would price your home and why
- What services are included in their fee, and what is extra
Choose the agent who gives you a clear plan, communicates well, and is transparent about commissions.
Final tip: Get the fee and services in writing
Before you sign a listing agreement, make sure it spells out:
- The listing commission you'll pay
- Any minimum fees or added costs
- What is included in their service package
If something is unclear, ask for changes before you sign. You can always walk away and interview another agent.
FAQ 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.
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.
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 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 pay a buyer’s agent commission upfront due to changes resulting from NAR's 2024 lawsuit settlement, which led to 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.
