Redfin vs. Realtor: An Easy Choice

Deciding whether to list your home with Redfin or a traditional realtor? Consider what’s most important to you in the sales process. The choice is relatively simple: 

💸 If minimizing costs is your priority, Redfin might be the best option for you.

• It charges a lower listing fee of 1.5%, compared to the typical 2.5-3% charged by traditional agents. 
• Additionally, Redfin's fee drops to just 1% if you also choose to buy your next home with a Redfin agent, potentially offering significant savings.
• However, while the lower fees can be appealing, this cost-saving might come with less personalized attention than traditional agents. This is a key reason why some reviewers say Redfin is a bad option.
• Performance data also shows that Redfin’s results largely align with traditional agents. For example, Redfin listings sold in a median of 53 days vs. 58 days for the market overall, and homes closed at about 99% of list price, nearly identical to other agents.

🤝 For more personalized service and support, a traditional realtor is your best choice. 

• Unlike Redfin, where a lead agent handles a high sales volume and delegates many tasks to assistant agents, a traditional realtor provides one-on-one attention and tailored services.
• Redfin claims to save sellers thousands with its 1.5% listing fee, but its team-based approach has sparked mixed reviews. 
• Redfin will be acquired by Rocket Companies, a shift that could potentially alter its fee structure, services, and support.[1]As aspects of Redfin's business model may change, it's crucial to monitor developments closely.

If you’re searching for a balance between affordability and personalized service, Clever Real Estate is an excellent choice. Clever offers full services through experienced local agents at just a 1.5% fee, so you get top-quality help at a competitive rate. Just fill out this quick quiz to connect with a top local agent today!

Redfin vs. realtor: Key differences

Redfin’s fee and service model looks different, but performance is similar to traditional agents. The main trade‑off is lower listing fees and a higher‑volume, team‑based experience vs. more one‑to‑one support with a traditional realtor.

Metric	Redfin agents	Traditional realtors	Takeaway
Listing fee	1.5%	~2.5–3.0%	Usually cheaper, but minimums can raise the effective rate on lower-priced homes.
Deals closed per agent, annually	27	10	Higher volume and more team support vs. more one-to-one service.
Days on market	53	58	Sells a little faster than average.
Sale to list ratio	98.87%	98.56%	Sale prices are nearly identical to the market average.
Median list / sale price	$434,900 / $430,000	$339,900 / $335,000	Concentrated in higher-priced markets; similar agent performance.
Pricing adjustments	Drops 46% Increases 31%	Drops 43% Increases 24%	More frequent price changes; more data-driven, less steady.

Source: Clever Real Estate analysis of Redfin transactions using HouseCanary MLS and public record data (Aug 2024–Aug 2025). Our team identified thousands of Redfin‑affiliated agents and transactions, then compared their performance against national benchmarks, relying on medians so unusual sales don’t throw off the data.

Here’s what these numbers mean when comparing Redfin agents with traditional realtors.

💰 Lower commission rates. Redfin charges a 1.5% listing fee, significantly lower than the national average real estate commission rate of 2.82%. If you decide to buy your next home with Redfin as well, the listing fee decreases further to just 1%.

🔎 How they're paid. Redfin agents usually earn a salary, while a traditional agent works on a percentage-based commission for each sale. This is pretty rare, as most agents work on a commission basis.

👥 Team-based vs. agent approach. Redfin agents don’t manage every aspect of your sale themselves. Instead, they work with a team of specialists, including marketers and transaction coordinators. This differs from realtors at other brokerages, who often handle most of the transaction.

📈 Higher transaction volume. Redfin agents handle three times as many clients as other realtors. Redfin agents close an average of 27 deals annually, compared to just 10 closed by realtors nationwide.[2]

🏠 Similar sale outcomes. Redfin homes sell in about 53 days vs. 58 with traditional agents and close at nearly the same price (98.9% vs. 98.6% of list). Their listings skew higher — a median $435,000 list price vs. $340,000 — mainly because Redfin operates in pricier urban markets.

🔄 More frequent price changes. Redfin agents are more likely to adjust prices mid-sale, with 46% of listings seeing drops and 31% increases (vs. 43% and 24% for traditional agents). This shows a more data-driven, responsive approach, though it can also feel less steady for sellers who prefer consistent pricing guidance.

Redfin services: What to expect

Redfin agents offer many of the same general services as traditional real estate agents, including help with pricing, marketing, showings, offers, paperwork, and closing coordination.

But Redfin agents manage and render these services differently. If you're wondering if and why Redfin is bad, the biggest downside can be the spotty, hands-off service, especially for inexperienced home buyers and sellers.

Consider these differences in how Redfin works for sellers compared to traditional agents.

Redfin fees

When you sell with a Redfin agent, you can expect to save 20–30% in realtor commission fees.

Redfin charges a 1.5% listing fee, lower than the national average of 2.82%. However, this drops to 1% if you buy and sell with Redfin—a potential bargain for those making dual transactions.

However, Redfin's pricing isn't always as straightforward as it seems. The company has minimum commission requirements in many markets, making the cost higher than 1.5% for modestly priced homes. For example, the minimum commission in San Francisco is $9,000, while in Boston, it’s $6,000.[4] 

Also, while Redfin’s listing fee is discounted, you may still need to cover the buyer’s agent fee, which averages 2.75% nationwide. Due to recent NAR settlement changes, these fees are now negotiable between buyers and their agents. However sellers often still agree to cover the fee in many markets.

💡 Looking for savings without surprises? Clever Real Estate connects you with top-rated agents in your area who charge the same 1.5% listing fee as Redfin but without the risk of hidden costs or minimum commission thresholds. Fill out this short quiz to get matched to top local agents today.

Redfin services

Redfin agents offer many of the same general services as traditional real estate agents, including help with pricing, marketing, showings, offers, paperwork, and closing coordination.

But Redfin agents manage and render these services differently. If you're wondering if and why Redfin is bad, the biggest downside can be the spotty, hands-off service, especially for inexperienced home buyers and sellers. This is a key difference when compared to other real estate companies that provide a more personal, hands-on approach.

1. Higher volume, less personalized attention

Redfin agents close an average of over 27 deals annually, more than three times as many deals as agents at other brokerages named in the top 10.[5]

While this high volume demonstrates their efficiency and success, it could also mean that Redfin agents may have less time to dedicate to each client. They might need to delegate some tasks to team members or take longer to respond to inquiries.

A Reddit user noted that while Redfin’s system is efficient and cost-effective, the experience hinges on the quality of the agent you choose. “If you get a good agent, Redfin can be a great bargain,” they shared. “But if you get a bad agent, no system can fix that.”

Sellers who prefer frequent communication and more personalized attention may find working with a high-volume agent less satisfying.

2. Team-based support model

In a conventional sale, you can go to your real estate agent or one of their direct team members for everything. This approach helps build trust and rapport, with clear accountability.

At Redfin, you’ll work with a larger team of specialists. If you have concerns about how your home is marketed, you must address them with the marketing specialist. Issues with your open house schedule? That might involve another team member.

This team-based model can be more efficient, but it may also feel confusing or frustrating if not managed well.

It’s worth noting that top-producing agents at other brokerages may also work within a team structure. So, it's important to understand how communication will be handled regardless of your brokerage.

3. Tech-driven process

Much of the selling or buying process happens through Redfin’s mobile app and online dashboard.

Redfin’s tech-centric approach may be great for some who prefer communicating and coordinating this way. Still, it could be frustrating or confusing for others — particularly the less tech-savvy among us. 

As the Reddit user pointed out, this efficiency doesn’t replace the importance of a good agent who can walk you through complex aspects of the transaction, like understanding commissions or buyer-side fees.

Key tip: Focus on the agent, not just the brand

Not all real estate agents are created equal, and this is true for Redfin. While Redfin’s "agent finder" tool offers transparency by providing key details like customer reviews, past deals, and top-performing agents in your market, it's important to look beyond the metrics.

The tool allows you to search for agents by neighborhood or zip code, and even filter by buyer's or seller's agents, as well as Redfin Premier agents specializing in high-end properties.

By selecting an agent's profile, you can see their total sales closed, sales volume, and highest-recorded sales price.

However, focusing too much on numbers can make it easy to overlook the importance of finding an agent you connect with and who understands your goals. We recommend connecting with agents and setting up interviews to ensure you find someone who aligns with your needs and priorities.

» LEARN: How to choose a realtor to sell your home

Redfin partner agents: What to know

The Redfin Partner Agent program lets outside agents stay with their current brokerage while receiving referrals from Redfin. Agents only pay a referral fee after closing a deal, with no upfront costs. The program connects them with motivated buyers and sellers, offering exposure through Redfin’s marketing.

If you use Redfin's agent finder tool, you may come across Partner Agents. These agents from other brokerages pay Redfin for referrals, typically in markets where Redfin doesn’t have agents or when Redfin agents are unavailable.

Unlike Redfin’s in-house agents, Partner Agents don’t follow Redfin’s pricing model, and buyers aren't eligible for Redfin’s buyer rebate. As a result, these agents may not provide the same pricing benefits or consistency that you’d get from working directly with a Redfin agent or a conventional real estate agent.

Selling with Redfin: Pros and cons

Selling with Redfin has its advantages and drawbacks.

• On the plus side, Redfin offers significantly lower commission, typically around 1.5%, which can save sellers 20–30% compared to traditional real estate transactions.
• Redfin listings sold in a median of 53 days vs. 58 days for traditional agents.
• The company's tech-driven process and team-based support model streamline many aspects of the home-selling experience, making it a good option for those comfortable with technology and looking for efficiency.

However, there are trade-offs to consider. 

• Redfin's minimum fees in certain markets can negate some savings, especially for lower-priced homes.
• Its team-based approach may result in less personalized service. Redfin agents close about 27 deals a year vs. 10 for traditional agents, which means they juggle more clients and may have less time for one-on-one attention.
• Redfin agents are more likely to adjust list prices (46% drops, 31% increases), which shows a data-driven approach but can feel less steady for sellers who prefer consistent pricing guidance.

Redfin and realtor alternatives

After comparing Redfin agents vs. realtors, you're likely wondering if there's a middle ground.

Stellar service at a lower commission rate? À la carte options for advanced home sellers? We've got you covered with these Redfin agent alternatives.

1. Get pre-negotiated low rates with traditional realtors

If you’re looking to save on commission but want to avoid customer service trade-offs, consider working with a discount company that negotiates low rates with traditional realtors on your behalf, like Clever Real Estate.

Clever only works with top local brokerage agents like Berkshire Hathaway and RE/MAX. Since Clever connects its partner agents with you at zero up-front cost, it can pass the savings on to you.

This means you'll get the same service and support you'd expect from a traditional realtor, but you'll pay a fraction of the typical price. Fill out this form to get matched with local agents today.

2. Compare Redfin with a discount real estate brokerage

Redfin is just one of the ever-increasing discount brokers out there.

Several national, regional, and local brands are available, each offering a variety of price points, service models, and pros and cons.

Generally speaking, most will come with some sort of variation on the same basic catch:

You can save big on commission fees, but you’ll likely trade-off something (or assume some sort of risk) in return — usually customer service.

We recommend shopping around and comparing Redfin against one to two discount brands — along with one to two traditional agents — to get the best possible value and fit for your needs.

» MORE: The ultimate guide to discount brokers

3. Sell for sale by owner (FSBO)

Selling your home as an FSBO means you're taking on the entire process yourself without the help of a listing agent, which can save you the cost of paying a listing commission, which averages 5.49% nationwide.

This approach gives you full control over the sale, from setting the price to negotiating with buyers, and using a flat fee MLS service can help make your property visible on the same platforms as agent-listed homes (think: Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com).

However, FSBO has challenges, particularly for those without real estate experience:

• FSBO sales have reached a historical low of just 6% in 2024, with the vast majority of sellers opting to work with real estate agents.[6]
• The median sales price for all FSBO sales was $380,000 in 2024, versus $435,000 for all agent-assisted sales, according to NAR's data.[7] Clever's own survey found that sellers using an agent sell for nearly $50,000 more on average than those who do not, outweighing potential commission savings.
• In addition, more than one-third (36%) of sellers acknowledge making legal mistakes due to the absence of an agent.
• Handling every sale aspect—marketing, showings, negotiations, and closing—can be overwhelming and time-consuming for a nonprofessional, potentially leading to mistakes or a lower sale price.

FSBO can be a good fit if you sell a highly desirable property in a hot market, have the time and knowledge to manage the process, and value independence.

However, if maximizing your sale price and having professional support are priorities, working with a real estate agent might be the better choice.

4. Sell to a 'we buy houses for cash' company

Selling to a cash home buyer can be a quick and convenient option for homeowners looking to offload properties quickly. Recent data shows that 32% of home purchases in February 2025 were all-cash sales, up from 26% in August 2024 and 29% in September 2023.[8]

These companies are often willing to purchase homes in any condition, including those in poor shape or vacant lots. Sellers can typically receive a cash offer within days, sometimes even hours, and enjoy flexibility in choosing their move-out and closing dates.

However, the convenience may come with trade-offs:

• Cash offers from these companies are usually well below market value, sometimes by as much as 50%. Our survey of real estate investors who flip houses found that they aim to offer no more than 68% of a home's after-repair value (ARV).
• Additionally, further deductions may be made to cover repair costs after in-person inspections.
• Sellers may also experience persistent follow-up from these companies, even after declining their services.

This option is best suited for sellers prioritizing speed over maximizing profit, such as those needing to sell quickly, inheriting an unwanted property, or lacking the funds or desire to make repairs.

⚡ Want to sell quickly without the hassle? Clever Offers lets you compare cash offers from trusted buyers near you—without the trade-offs. Get your free, no-obligation offers today!

5. Sell to an iBuyer

Selling to an iBuyer can be a quick and convenient option for homeowners looking to sell their property with minimal hassle.

iBuyers, or instant buyers, are large technology companies that make fast cash offers on homes, often within days or hours of initial contact. Compared to other cash buyers, they typically offer prices closer to fair market value, and some even provide unique options like home trade-ins, giving sellers flexibility.

However, while iBuyers offer speed and convenience, they often have drawbacks.

• Service fees can eat into your profits. These can reduce your profits, making traditional sales potentially more lucrative despite an attractive cash offer.
• Selective criteria. iBuyers often prefer newer homes that are in good condition.
• Limited availability. iBuyers may not operate in all areas, limiting your options.

It might be no surprise then that iBuyers represent a small market segment. According to the National Association of Realtors, less than 1% of all sellers opted to sell through an iBuyer program.[8]

Choosing to sell to an iBuyer might be a good fit if your home meets their criteria, you prioritize a fast and easy sale, and you’re willing to trade some potential profit for the convenience and certainty of a quick cash offer.

But, if maximizing your sale price is your top priority, exploring a conventional sale might be a better route.

FAQ

Related articles