Low commission realtors, also known as discount brokers, help sellers save on fees while benefiting from an agent’s expertise. By charging less than the average listing fee of 2.77%—often as low as 1.5%—they enable sellers to keep more of their sales profits.
However, not all low commission realtors offer the same level of savings or service. Some provide rock-bottom rates by offering less hands-on support, while others balance below-average fees with full-service quality. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right option for your needs.
This guide covers the top low commission real estate agencies, including their costs, pros and cons, and where they operate, so you can make an informed choice.
Ready to find low commission real estate agents near you? Answer these five quick questions to get matched with local agents who work for a 1.5% listing fee. Compare realtors from top discount companies and major brands like Keller Williams and RE/MAX.
Best low commission realtors of 2025
Listing Fee
Buyer Savings
Active Since
Editor's Take
Pros & cons
Reviews
Locations
Clever Real Estate is the best option for most sellers looking for an agent. The company matches you with multiple experienced, full-service agents so you can find the right fit, and it offers a low 1.5% listing fee no matter which agent you choose.
Listing Fee
Buyer Savings
Active Since
Editor's Take
Pros & cons
Reviews
Locations
Redfin is a reputable discount real estate brokerage that offers significant savings, particularly if you buy and sell with the brokerage. But watch out for high minimum fees, which vary by market and can be high in some areas. Redfin's agents also work with a lot of clients, and they don’t always have time to provide as much hands-on service as you may need.
Read the full Redfin review.
Listing Fee
Buyer Savings
Active Since
Editor's Take
Pros & cons
Reviews
Locations
Ideal Agent is a solid option if you’re looking for a top agent. The company vets its realtors thoroughly, so you’ll likely get a quality agent. But you won't save as much on realtor fees as you could with other companies.
Read the full Ideal Agent review.
Listing Fee
Buyer Savings
Active Since
Editor's take
Pros & cons
Reviews
Locations
If you're looking to save money on realtor fees, Houwzer is a great option. Its 1% listing fee could save you thousands compared to the 3% that traditional realtors charge. Agents are required to demonstrate expertise in their local market and undergo additional training to sign with the brand. That said, Houwzer's agent network is small (51-200 realtors total), so you may not find an agent close enough to sell your home.
Read the full Houwzer review.
Listing Fee
Buyer Savings
Active Since
Editor's Take
Pros & cons
Reviews
Locations
Prevu is a solid option if you're buying an expensive property. You can receive up to 1% of the home's purchase price as a rebate; the full 1% is only available on properties over $1.25 million. Sellers will pay a 1.5% listing fee (about half the traditional rate). But watch out for minimum fees that vary by market and can be high, limiting your actual savings.
Read the full Prevu review.
Listing Fee
Buyer Savings
Active Since
Editor's take
Pros & cons
Reviews
Locations
SimpleShowing offers significant savings, especially for sellers whose properties sell for more than $500,000. Its agents and customer service are also excellent. However, high minimum fees mean properties worth under $500,000 won’t enjoy maximum savings. Plus, you’ll get limited ability to choose your real estate agent thanks to the company’s small team size.
Read the full SimpleShowing review.
Listing Fee
Buyer Savings
Active Since
Editor's take
Pros & cons
Locations
Reviews
UpNest lets you choose from multiple vetted agents, so there’s a good chance you’ll find a realtor that fits your needs. But it falls short on savings and customer service.
Read the full UpNest review.
Find low commission real estate agents near you
Sometimes, your best option is a local low commission real estate agent in your area that offers discount rates.
We’ve compiled comprehensive guides for all 50 states and Washington, DC, so you can quickly find top agents in your area. Use the table below to navigate to your state and find the perfect agent.
Clever Real Estate operates nationwide. Fill out a quick form to get matched with a top-rated agent in your city, offering a 1.5% listing fee or other discount options tailored to your market.
Are low commission realtors worth it?
Yes, it's worth it for sellers who want to save money on real estate fees while still getting full service and support for their home sale.
- Nearly 90% of sellers use an agent to handle their transactions.[1]
- According to our latest commission rate survey, the average listing agent fee is 2.77% and the average buyer’s agent fee is 2.67%, for a total commission of 5.44%. In contrast, many low commission realtors or discount brokers offer listing fees as low as 1–1.5%, for a total commission of 3.5-4% – potentially saving you thousands of dollars on your home sale.
- Low-commission agents help you maximize savings while still getting expert guidance.
What services do you get?
Despite the lower cost, many low commission agents still offer full-service support, including pricing guidance, marketing, negotiations, and closing assistance, making them a great fit for most sellers. Companies like Clever Real Estate and Ideal Agent all offer reduced commission models with varying service levels and agent quality.
Who might consider alternatives?
A low commission realtor might not be for you if you have real estate experience and want to handle more of the sale process independently. Limited-service brokerages or flat fee MLS companies charge even lower fees and make sense for very straightforward sales, like if you're selling a "turnkey" home in a hot market.
For most sellers, though, a full-service low commission realtor strikes the right balance between affordability and hands-on support. They help you save money without sacrificing the expertise and guidance you need.
Low commission, high trust: What sellers want most
Nearly 9 in 10 homeowners report fears about selling, and 43% say working with a trusted real estate agent would increase their confidence, according to a Clever study. That’s why choosing a low commission agent who still provides full service can strike the right balance between affordability and peace of mind.
How much can I save with low commission realtors?
Example savings on a $400,000 home sale
| Listing fee | Commission cost | Potential savings |
|---|---|---|
| 2.77% (Industry avg.) | $10,960 | $0 |
| 2.0% | $8,000 | $2,960 |
| 1.5% | $6,000 | $4,960 |
| 1.0% | $4,000 | $6,960 |
*Savings are calculated based on the difference between the industry average commission of 2.77% and the lower fee.
You can save 0.5–1.5% of the final sale price of your home with low commission realtors.
With many homeowners worried about financial pressures—such as 45% who say selling below asking would cause hardship—cutting thousands in commission fees without sacrificing service can provide both savings and reassurance.
Low commission realtors typically charge a 1-2% listing fee instead of the average 2.77%. A $400,000 home sale translates to commission savings of about $3,000 to $7,000, depending on your rate.
What is a low commission realtor?
While the typical real estate agent charges a 2.5–3% listing fee, a low commission realtor will list and sell your house for a discounted rate. The best low-cost realtors offer the same service as a full-commission realtor for as little as 1.5%, saving you thousands on real estate fees. Often, realtors offer lower commissions as a way to gain new clients.
Low commission realtors provide a full range of services, including pricing guidance, property listing, marketing, negotiations, and transaction support. The goal is to maintain the same level of service as a traditional agent while offering a more budget-friendly rate.
Limited-service vs. flat-fee agents
It's important to distinguish low commission realtors from "limited-service" or "flat-fee" agents:
- Limited-service agents often provide only specific components of the selling process (e.g., listing on the MLS without additional support).
- By contrast, low commission agents strive to provide full-service assistance, similar to traditional realtors, but at a more affordable rate.
Consider these differences carefully to choose the best option for your needs.
📊 What's the average real estate agent commission?
According to our data, the average real estate commission rate is 5.44%, although it varies in different parts of the U.S. Commissions are divided between the listing agent (2.77%) and the buyer's agent (2.67%).
Other sources have similar figures reported:
- Anywhere Real Estate, the parent company of Coldwell Banker and Century 21, recently disclosed that the average seller-side commission rate is 2.41%, according to its latest quarterly report.[2]
- Redfin also noted a decline in the average buyer's agent commission rate, reporting it at 2.40% for homes sold in Q1 2025, down from 2.43% a year earlier.[3]
However, real estate agent fees aren't fixed, and can fluctuate based on several factors, including where you live, the type of property you're selling, and the current state of the housing market in your area.
» Jump to: Average realtor commission by state and city
NAR lawsuit settlement and commission rates
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) lawsuit settlement has brought sweeping changes to how real estate commissions are negotiated and paid, reshaping the traditional approach for buyers and sellers.
- 📉 Lower commissions: Total commission rates are shrinking, with fewer agents charging the traditional 6%. “What we’re seeing is the unbundling of services and the unmasking of value,” says Dustin Parker, founder and CEO of Archie, a real estate tech startup. “The listing side is seeing increased pressure to justify fees in a market where equity is thinner and buyers are pickier.”
- 💬 Transparency: Buyers now negotiate directly with their agents, leading to clearer discussions about fees.[4] Interestingly, our American Home Buyer Report found that only 24% of buyers said commission rate was important when choosing an agent, suggesting that other factors like service quality and expertise take precedence in agent selection.
- 🤝 Seller concessions: Many buyers request sellers to contribute to commission costs, often through price adjustments. Buyers with agents are significantly more successful at securing these concessions—69% get them compared to just 56% of unrepresented buyers.[5]
NAR settlement: How agents are reacting
Reactions to these changes vary widely among industry professionals.
"Clients seem to think the changes are a waste of effort," says Jim Pena, an agent in southeastern Oklahoma.
Others, like Atlanta agent Tom Townsend, see a smoother transition on the horizon: "In time, this will become the new normal, and I don't see it being an issue."
Looking ahead, many agents emphasize the importance of educating clients about the new rules. "Agents with a history of showing value have no problems," notes Ryan Davis of Fresno, California. "We need to normalize the accountability of buyers in choosing a good agent and being loyal."
Connect with a top-rated agent today to learn how these changes might affect your next home sale or purchase!
🔍 More insights on the NAR lawsuit
A recent survey from Clever Real Estate highlights the ripple effects of the NAR settlement:
- 64% of real estate agents oppose the new commission rules, though this number is slightly down from 70% in early 2024.
- 63% of prospective home sellers feel more inclined to list their property now that they’re not obligated to cover the buyer’s agent fee.
- Despite the changes, only 26% of homeowners and buyers fully understand the lawsuit and its implications; 40% admit they’re either unaware of the changes or confused by them.
Navigating these new commission rules can be challenging, but experienced agents are stepping up to guide their clients.
"Once I explain the commission structure, buyers and sellers quickly understand the process and trust that their interests are being handled with transparency and professionalism," says realtor Dusty Rhoton of Northern Arizona.
Are there any risks of using low commission realtors?
Parker cautions that “as commission compression accelerates, agents need more than just hustle—they need leverage.” That means some discount brokers may lack the systems or resources to deliver consistent service, especially if they rely on a high-volume, low-touch model.
- For example, Redfin employs a team-based approach where different specialists manage various parts of the transaction. This structure can improve efficiency but may reduce personalized service and increase the risk of miscommunication. In 2024, Redfin agents closed an average of over 23 deals each—more than three times the volume of agents at other top 10 brokerages—demonstrating the high caseload often managed within this model.[6]
- Charges high minimum fees. For example, some low commission brokerages have minimum fees that vary by market and can be substantial. If you sell a home at a lower price point, these minimum fees could negate any potential savings.
- Doesn't offer full service. Some low commission real estate agents lower their fees by cutting back on services. This could mean limited help with crucial aspects like marketing, negotiations, or managing closing details, potentially leaving sellers without the full support offered by traditional, full-service agents. Since 79% of homeowners who plan to use an agent still worry about hiring the wrong one—including concerns over poor communication or feeling pressured—it's critical to choose a discount brokerage that prioritizes service, not just savings.
Before deciding, consider these factors carefully to ensure you find a low commission realtor who meets your home-selling needs.
Alternatives to low commission realtors
Not sure whether a low commission realtor is the right choice for you? Here are some other options.
1. Consider flat fee MLS companies.
These are best if you want to sell without a realtor and seek the cheapest way to get your home listed on the MLS. Plans with flat-fee MLS companies start as low as $95, but if you add extra support services, they can cost as much as a traditional realtor.
This option can be a good fit for sellers who are comfortable managing most aspects of the sale themselves — a group that includes the small, but consistent 6% of sellers who go the FSBO route.[1]
2. Sell to a cash home buyer.
Also known as a "We Buy Houses for Cash" company, these work best if you're in a rush to sell and don't mind accepting a lower offer than what you'd likely get on the open market.
More than half (55%) of homeowners say they'd consider selling to a cash buyer to avoid the stress of traditional selling, especially the top concern of making costly repairs.[7] But this route often means sacrificing price for convenience.
These companies pay around 65-70% of a property's after-repair market value and can get you to the closing table in 1-2 weeks. However, if you want to compare multiple offers and potentially get up to 100% of your home's fair market value, Clever Offers is a top choice. The free service connects you with vetted investors, iBuyers, and local buyers, helping you find the best possible price with zero obligation.
Cash buyers can close in as little as 1–2 weeks, making them ideal for sellers facing urgent timelines due to job relocation, financial hardship, or inherited property sales.
3. Try negotiating realtor fees with an agent directly.
This approach is often effective if you sell a move-in-ready home in a hot local market. The property may attract quick interest, and the agent may be open to a reduced commission in exchange for an easy sale.
Just remember that most sellers (close to 80%) who try to negotiate with an agent directly are unsuccessful.[1] In most cases, it's worth exploring alternative options for lowering commission fees.
How to choose the best low commission real estate agent
Finding the right low commission realtor can make a significant difference in your home-selling experience.
When evaluating agents, Parker recommends shifting the focus away from commission rate alone. Agents need to be more focused on the value they bring, rather than what they charge. “The question [for agents] isn’t just, ‘How much commission can I charge?’ It’s, ‘How do I deliver so much value that I become indispensable—and still earn a healthy margin?’ That’s the shift the industry is going through," he says.
1. Identify your needs
Start by outlining what services are most important to you. With 90% of home sellers working with an agent, according to NAR data, it’s clear that many sellers find value in professional support for various stages of the sale.[1] Do you need:
- Pricing expertise: Assistance with setting the optimal listing price through a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)?
- Marketing support: Professional photos, online listings, and advertising strategies?
- Home preparation: Guidance on staging and making your home show-ready?
- Negotiation skills: Experience in handling offers and counteroffers effectively?
- Paperwork assistance: Help with contracts, disclosures, and closing documents? Given that more than one-third (36%) of sellers acknowledge making legal mistakes due to the absence of an agent, this is a big one.[8]
2. Research potential agents
Look for agents who offer the services you need:
- Check their websites and social media: See what services they advertise and any specialties they highlight.
- Read online reviews: Visit platforms like Google, Zillow, Facebook, or Yelp to read about other sellers' experiences.
- Look at recent sales: Find agents who have recently sold homes similar to yours in price range and location.
3. Verify the agent's track record
Ideally, you'll want to work with an agent who has:
- Experience in your market: Ensure the agent has a strong understanding of your local market conditions.
- Success with similar homes: An agent familiar with properties like yours is more likely to attract qualified buyers.
- No red flags: Be cautious of agents whose reviews mention poor communication, lack of responsiveness, or limited support.
4. Interview multiple agents
We recommend meeting with at least 2–3 agents before making a decision:
- Prepare questions: Ask about their marketing plan, how they determine pricing, and their strategy for negotiations.
- Assess communication style: Choose someone who listens to your needs and communicates clearly.
- Discuss commission and fees: Confirm their listing fee and ask if there are any additional costs.
5. Evaluate how they operate
Take time to understand each agent's specific service structure and style to ensure it aligns with your expectations:
- Service model: Determine if they offer full-service support or a more limited, discounted approach. Some agents may provide comprehensive assistance, while others may specialize in essential services only.
- Personalization: Ask if they take a team-based or individual approach to client interactions. A team-based model can enhance efficiency but may also lead to a less personal experience.
- Availability: Confirm the agent's availability to handle showings, answer questions, and assist with the transaction. It’s helpful to know if they or a team member will be your main point of contact.
6. Assess local market knowledge
A knowledgeable agent is crucial for effective pricing and strategic marketing, especially in a competitive or fluctuating market:
- Local expertise: Ask about recent market trends and typical buyer behavior in your area. An agent with local expertise can better position your home to attract the right buyers.
- Neighborhood sales experience: Look for agents with a successful track record in your neighborhood or similar neighborhoods.
7. Consider post-sale support
Some agents offer valuable services even after an offer is accepted, which can make the closing process smoother:
- Closing coordination: Confirm if the agent will assist with coordinating inspections, appraisals, and closing timelines.
- Post-sale resources: Inquire if they offer referrals for reputable inspectors, contractors, or moving services, which can make your transition easier.
By following these steps, you’ll be in a stronger position to choose a low commission realtor who meets your needs, provides reliable service, and maximizes your profit.
If you're weighing your options for buying or selling a house, Clever can help!
Our fully licensed concierge team can answer your questions and provide objective advice on getting the best outcome with your sale or purchase.
When you enter your info below, we'll ask you a few questions about your situation via a short form. Then our concierge team will be in touch shortly to help.
This service is free, and there’s never any obligation to move forward with us.
Find average real estate commission rates near me
Want to know what the average real estate commission rate is in your area? Find your region in the table below to learn what realtors charge near you:
| Region | States | Key cities |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast | Connecticut | Delaware | Maine | Maryland | Massachusetts | New Hampshire | New Jersey | New York | Pennsylvania | Rhode Island | Vermont | Washington, DC | New York City |
| Midwest | Illinois | Indiana | Iowa | Kansas | Michigan | Minnesota | Missouri | Nebraska | North Dakota | Ohio | South Dakota | Wisconsin | Minneapolis, MN |
| South | Alabama | Arkansas | Florida | Georgia | Kentucky | Louisiana | Mississippi | North Carolina | Oklahoma | South Carolina | Tennessee | Texas | Virginia | West Virginia | Atlanta, GA | Dallas, TX | Houston, TX | Virginia Beach, VA |
| West | Alaska | Arizona | California | Colorado | Hawaii | Idaho | Montana | Nevada | New Mexico | Oregon | Utah | Washington | Wyoming | Phoenix, AZ | Riverside, CA | Los Angeles, CA | Denver, CO |
FAQs about real estate commission
Questions about low cost realtorsWant to learn more about low commission real estate agents? We've compiled answers to common seller questions below. |
How does selling with a low cost realtor work?
Selling with a low cost real estate agent is typically similar to working with a traditional agent, assuming you hire a discount brand that offers genuine full service.
The top full-service discount companies provide the same services and support as conventional brokerages, including in-person pricing consultations, access to the multiple listing service (MLS), full representation during negotiations, and dedicated support throughout the home selling process.
Discount brokers can provide the same services as traditional agents but charge lower rates because they've found ways to reduce overhead and operate more efficiently, with little (or no) impact on the average customer's experience.
What company has the lowest real estate commission fees?
Companies like Clever Real Estate, SimpleShowing, and Redfin offer the lowest commission fees for most home sellers. The cheapest option for your situation depends on your home price, location, and desired level of service.
What are the best low commission real estate brokers?
For most home sellers, the best low commission real estate brokers include Clever, Redfin, and Ideal Agent. These nationwide brands offer full service throughout the selling process, which means your experience should feel similar to selling with a traditional agent. Clever is one of the most affordable nationwide real estate companies, but it's a good idea to compare your options to find the right agent for your unique priorities and budget.
Other questions about real estate commissionWe answer questions on how real estate commission works, how much it costs, and how you can save when you sell your home. |
How can I avoid paying realtor fees?
To avoid real estate agent fees altogether, you'll need to list your home for sale by owner and find a buyer who isn't using a buyer's agent (or convince them to pay the buyer's agent commission out of pocket). But that's incredibly hard to do — and it means sacrificing the support of an expert real estate agent during your sale. If you simply want to save on realtor fees, hiring a low commission agent will likely have a better outcome.
Are realtor fees included in closing costs of homes?
Yes, realtor fees are generally included in closing costs and taken out of the seller's proceeds at closing. Real estate agent commission is one of the most expensive closing costs sellers face, so it pays to shop around and find a listing agent who will sell your house for less.
What is the lowest commission a realtor will take?
A realtor's lowest commission varies between brokerages and even individual agents. Several top discount real estate brokers offer listing fees as low as 1.5%, which reduces your total commission rate to 4–4.5% (including the typical buyer's agent commission).
Agents at traditional brokerages typically won't accept less than a 2% listing commission, if they're willing to negotiate their standard 2.5–3% rates at all.
How can I get a lower real estate commission rate?
The best way to get a lower commission rate is to hire a full-service real estate agent who offers a discounted listing fee. On a $500,000 home sale, hiring a 1.5% commission realtor could save you $7,500!
Other options include negotiating a lower rate with your agent, selling to an iBuyer like Opendoor, listing your house without a realtor, or using a flat fee MLS company. Learn more about how to save on realtor fees.
Can real estate agents lower their commission?
Yes, real estate commission is negotiable. Although some agents may not be able to lower their fees without permission from their broker. You'll have the most success negotiating a lower commission rate if you sell a desirable home in a hot market. But you'll likely save more cash by hiring a low commission agent rather than trying to talk your listing agent down from their standard fee.
Methodology
The Clever Team filters and ranks low commission real estate brokerages based on the following criteria:
- Customer reviews: Verifiable customer reviews are integral to our evaluation. We consider various factors, including the total volume of reviews, average customer ratings, key positive and negative themes identified by AI, and the relevance of these themes to prospective customers.
- Pricing: We review each company's fee structure, cross-referencing current commission rates and home values to determine which companies offer the best overall value. We also identified hidden fees, high minimums, and up-front fees that could detract from overall seller savings.
- Service level: We also rank discount real estate brokerages based on the level of service offered compared to what a customer could expect from a traditional real estate brokerage. Top-rated brokerages deliver the essential services that traditional realtors provide, including in-person representation, showing assistance, and closing support.
- Availability: Our national rankings include only those low commission brokerages that operate in multiple states. However, sometimes your best option may be local. Check out our state and city guides to find the best low commission options near you.
🔬 Our research process
Clever has helped thousands of home sellers find great low commission real estate agents and save on realtor fees. Our Editorial Team also spends hundreds of hours each year researching other discount brands and crafting in-depth reviews to help home sellers compare their options and find the right fit for their needs and price range, whether that's Clever or another service.
Our rigorous research process involves reading thousands of customer reviews, mystery shopping local offices to fact-check marketing claims and uncover details not listed on the company's website, and updating our rankings regularly to ensure we give consumers the best — and most accurate — information about low-cost real estate agents available on the web.
Our primary goal is to empower you to make smarter real estate decisions, achieve your goals, and, ideally, save some money while you're at it. To that end, we strive to deliver highly objective, helpful guides that offer practical advice to sellers with different experience levels and with homes in different locations and price ranges.
Selling a house is one of the biggest financial transactions you'll ever make. We want to provide you with the information you need to have the best possible outcome, even if that means you ultimately choose to work with one of Clever's competitors.
