$20,000—that’s what you’re paying an agent to list your home on the MLS, set the price, review contracts, and negotiate offers. But here’s a secret: discount brokers get all that done for a fraction of the cost!
Houzeo, America’s #1 discount real estate service, offers virtual full-service assistance for just $349. That’s thousands of dollars in your pocket!
Key Takeaways:
- Discount real estate brokers save thousands in commission while still offering professional support.
- The 6 best discount brokers are Houzeo, Clever Real Estate, ListingSpark, Redfin, SimpleShowing, and UpNest.
- Houzeo is the best discount real estate service. You get virtual full-service support, high-tech tools to manage your offers, and 5-star customer support.
- Clever Real Estate ranks second because of their in-person, full-service Realtor assistance and 4.9-star rating.
Rankings: Top 6 Discount Real Estate Brokers
| Rank | Discount Real Estate Broker / Company | Total Commission | MLS Support | 100% Online | 5-Star Reviews* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Houzeo | $399 Flat Fee | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 2. | Clever Real Estate | 1.5% Commission | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| 3. | 1 Percent Lists | 1% | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| 4. | Prevu | 2% Commission | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| 5. | Simple Showing | 1% Commission | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| 6. | Redfin | 1.5% Commission | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
*Companies rated 4.75 stars and above are considered 5-star.
We have evaluated the discount real estate agencies in America based on the following factors:
- Customer Ratings and Reviews: We prioritize feedback from real users. Ratings and reviews from trusted platforms like Google and Trustpilot play a major role in our analysis.
- Range and Quality of Services: Brokers that provide well-rounded, all-inclusive packages without requiring costly add-ons are rated higher. While those with limited tools rank low.
- Pricing and Charges: We have evaluated brokers based on the services they provide. Those with more services and lower prices are scored higher.
- Additional Fees: Extra fees for services like document handling, photography, lockboxes, etc. are carefully reviewed. We also take customer feedback for hidden charges into account.
Reviews: 6 Top Discount Real Estate Brokers in America
1. Houzeo
BEST DISCOUNT REAL ESTATE SERVICE
Listing Fee: $249Houzeo leads in discount real estate services with 20M+ active real estate listings on its platform. You get to choose from 3 packages:
- Silver Package – $249: Your home is listed on your local MLS with 24 photos for 6 months. It is also visible on Zillow, Trulia, etc. You get unlimited listing changes, open houses, and tools like Houzeo Showings and Houzeo offers.
- Gold Package – $299: You get all the benefits in the Silver package plus maximum photos and licensed broker assistance in this package. You also get seller disclosures and a premium yard sign that makes your listing pop.
- Platinum Package – $349: You get everything in the Gold Package, along with virtual full-service support and a personal concierge. Plus, all the buyer and agent calls are forwarded to you along with a 12-month listing term.
Note: Expect an additional fee of 0.5% to 1.25% at closing.
Here are the key reasons why Houzeo is one of the top discount real estate services:
- Max Savings: Houzeo’s flat fee packages help you skip agent commissions. Plus, with Platinum package, you get professional assistance similar to that of traditional agents.
- 100% Online: You can manage your listing, showings, and negotiations from your phone with the Houzeo Mobile App.
- Instant Social Sharing: You can post your home listing across Facebook, WhatsApp, LinkedIn, and X in an instant.
- 5-Star Customer Service: Houzeo has a 5-star customer support and chat service. You can access them 6 days a week.
- No Hidden Charges: All costs are disclosed upfront on Houzeo’s website, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees.
There are no dealbreakers with Houzeo.
Houzeo is rated 4.9 out of 5 stars on Google and Trustpilot.
» Houzeo Reviews: With over 11,100 happy customers, Houzeo is the most trusted discount real estate broker.
👉 Our Take: We recommend Houzeo’s Gold plan for most home sellers. It combines Houzeo’s advanced technology, maximum exposure, 5-star customer service, and virtual broker assistance. Plus, you can save 2% to 5% on commissions at closing.
2. Clever Real Estate
IN-PERSON REALTOR ASSISTANCE
Listing Fee: 1.5% CommissionClever Real Estate offers 1 full-service package with in-person agent assistance:
- 1.5% Commission: Your property is listed on the MLS by your chosen agent. You also get assistance with pricing your home, professional photography, marketing, negotiations, and closing. The 1.5% listing fee comes with a minimum commission of $3,000.
Here are the reasons why Clever Real Estate can be a good choice for you:
- No Upfront Fee: You pay nothing to list your property. Commission is only due when your home sells.
- No Obligation Process: You can interview agents with no obligation. A listing agreement and commission are only paid if you sign and close with an agent
- Full-Service Agent Experience: You get matched with a full-service local agent who helps you from listing to closing. They also use creative ways to market your house, like professional photography, and help with closing paperwork.
- Nationwide Agent Network: Clever works with top-rated agents from major brokerages like Keller Williams and RE/MAX. Every agent has at least 5+ years of experience, a strong sales record, and positive customer reviews. Clever’s network spans all 50 states.
- Buyer Cashback Program: If you’re a buyer, you could get a cashback of $250 (if you buy with Clever) or $500 (if you buy and sell with Clever). This money can help with moving, furniture, or closing costs.
Here’s one drawback of working with Clever Real Estate:
- High Minimum Fee: There’s a minimum listing fee of $3,000. This isn’t ideal for homes under $200,000 or fix-uppers.
Clever Real Estate has a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 3,696 reviews on Trustpilot.
Clever Real Estate Reviews: Read why Clever Real Estate is the best choice for in-person assistance.
👉 Our Take: We recommend Clever Real Estate for first-time sellers. Their full-service agents guide you throughout your home sale process with no upfront fees. You get in-person Realtor assistance at just 1.5% commission.
3. 1 Percent Lists
FULL SERVICE OPTION
Listing Fee: 1% Commission1 Percent Lists offers only one package to sellers:
- 1% Commission: Your property gets listed on the MLS and other real estate websites like Zillow, Trulia, etc., with professional photos. You get a full-service local agent who helps you from listing to closing.
🚩 Additional Fees: 1 Percent Lists mentions that some of their franchises and independent contractors may charge additional commission or transaction fees.
Here are some reasons to consider 1 Percent Lists:
- No Upfront Fee: You don’t have to pay anything when listing your home. The 1% fee is only applied once your house is sold.
- Professional Agent Assistance: You get full-service agent assistance from listing to closing. This includes real estate photography, pricing assistance, showing management, and help with closing paperwork.
- Help With Negotiation: Their agents handle offer and contract negotiations. So, you won’t be overwhelmed with multiple offers or need to settle for low-ball ones.
Here are some red flags of 1 Percent Lists:
- High Cost for Luxury Properties: 1% commission for luxury and high-end homes may turn out to be pretty expensive, especially in comparison to some Flat Fee MLS services.
- Inconsistent Service Quality: 1 Percent Lists operates nationwide on a franchise model, so costs and services may vary by location. You might even have to pay an extra fee depending on the franchise.
1 Percent Lists has 5 out of 5 stars from 145+ reviews on Google.
👉 Our Take: We recommend 1 Percent Lists for smaller, lower-priced homes, where the 1% commission won’t significantly impact your home selling price. However, be sure to check if your local franchise charges any additional fees.
4. Prevu
LIMITED AGENT NETWORK
Listing Fee: 2% CommissionPrevu offers a single commission-based package to home sellers.
- 2% Commission: Your home gets listed on the local MLS after a detailed valuation and professional photography. Your Prevu agent manages showings, open houses, negotiations, and guides you through a successful sale.
Here are some green flags about Prevu that you must consider.
- Detailed Home Evaluation: The Prevu team helps you with a detailed evaluation of your home. They assist you in setting the right asking price for a quicker sale.
- User Friendly Website: Prevu’s website is simple to manage. The sellers can keep track of their listings easily.
There are some red flags with Prevu that you must know before choosing them.
- Comparatively Expensive: The 2% commission on the selling price can be expensive if compared to flat fee services.
- Limited Agent Network: Prevu has a small network of agents. This means that your home-selling process may get delayed.
- Unclear Commission Policy: Prevu’s website states commissions may change; that makes it difficult to estimate total savings.
Prevu has 5 out of 5 stars from 640+ reviews on Google.
👉 Our Take: We recommend Prevu to experienced sellers who are not in a hurry to sell their homes. For first-time sellers or those who want a quick sale, the limited agent network of Prevu may not be the best fit!
5. Simple Showing
LIMITED COVERAGE
Listing Fee: 1% CommissionSimpleShowing is a licensed full-service brokerage with just one package:
- 1% Listing Fee: This package provides full-service support from licensed agents who can assist you in your sale, right from listing to closing. You also get help with the paperwork for selling a house and can schedule home tours online.
Here’s what stands out about SimpleShowing:
- Maximum Exposure: Your home gets listed on the MLS and various national websites, including Realtor.com, Zillow, Trulia, etc.
- No Upfront Costs: You need not pay any fee to list your property. The 1% amount is deducted from the selling price after the sale is closed.
- End-to-End Agent Support: SimpleShowing offers pre-listing consultation, ongoing support, and contract assistance throughout the selling process.
- Access to Professional Photographers: You can opt for their professional photographers to help you get the best photos of your home.
SimpleShowing has the following downsides:
- High Listing Fees: You need to pay at least $5,000 as the listing fee, which is quite high, especially for a small-scale home.
- Limited Agent Pool: You can’t choose or switch agents if any issues arise with your assigned representative.
- Limited Coverage: They offer their services only in Georgia, Florida, and Texas.
SimpleShowing has 4.9 out of 5 stars on Google from over 110 reviews.
👉 Our Take: We recommend SimpleShowing to first-time home sellers for their their full-service support. However, their fees are on the higher side compared to some Flat Fee services that offer more tools at a lower cost.
6. Redfin
FAST LISTING
1.5% Listing FeeRedfin offers services in over 100 real estate markets across 49 U.S. states.
- Redfin Full-Service Agent – 1.5% Commission: This is a full-service package. This includes pricing assistance, listing paperwork, negotiation support, etc.
- Redfin Concierge – 2.5% Commission: The “Concierge” plan includes everything from the Full-Service package. Additional services include professional cleaning and home staging.
- Redfin Premier Agent – 1.5% Commission: This package is exclusively for luxury properties and includes everything that comes with the Full-Service package.
Here are some advantages of choosing Redfin:
- Advanced Technology: Redfin is primarily known for its advanced tech platform and mobile app.
- Full-Service Agents at Low Commission – 1.5%: Redfin’s full-service package is priced at 1.5%. It saves you thousands of dollars compared to the traditional 3% listing commission.
- Free Professional Photography: Unlike some traditional agents, Redfin provides free professional photos using its in-house photography team.
In our research, we found the following red flags with Redfin that could make your experience less satisfactory:
- Poor Customer Reviews: Customers have complained that agents are often unreachable.
- Limited Agent Selection: As per customer reviews, Redfin lacks an array of agents. This means you get an agent assigned automatically without having any choice in the matter.
- Lack of Personalized Services: Customers have often complained that Redfin agents are not able to give personalized service, as they serve a high volume of clients.
Redfin has an average rating of 3.3 out of 5 stars on Yelp.
» Redfin Reviews: Pros, Cons, and Real Customer Experiences.
👉Our Take: When you opt for Redfin, you can save a considerable amount on the commission fees. Although Redfin tries to provide its service 3x faster than the traditional agents, it limits its ability to provide personalized service.
Discount Brokers vs. Traditional Agents
Are you wondering how to sell your home? Confused whether to choose a discount broker or a traditional agent? Here’s a comparison between the two to help you make an informed decision:
| Features | Discount Brokers | Traditional Agents |
| Savings on Commissions | ✅ | ❌ |
| Faster Listing Process | ✅ | ❌ |
| Showings Management Tool | ✅ | ❌ |
| Offer Negotiation | ✅ | ✅ |
| Listing Changes | ✅ | ✅ |
How Much Can You Save With Discount Real Estate Brokers?
Almost $20,000! That’s how much you can save with discount real estate brokers, who typically charge a low 1% to 2% fee. On the other hand, you have to pay a steep 5% to 6% of your home sale price to traditional agents, which quickly adds up to thousands.
Let’s understand this with an example:
On a median home of $438,466, you would pay $26,308 to a traditional agent. However, with a discount real estate platform like Houzeo, you can save $20,478! You can use these savings to enjoy a weekend getaway in New York City or visit vibrant destinations such as Las Vegas.
Discount real estate brokers offer a way to sell your home at a reduced commission rate, with most charging 1-1.5% compared to the standard 2.82% listing fee.
✅ Benefits of Discount Real Estate Brokers
Here’s why discount real estate brokers might be the right choice for you:
- Lower Commission Fees: You pay only 1% to 2% in agent fees instead of 6%. So, you save thousands in real estate commissions in America.
- Flexible Packages: Depending on the level of support you need, you can choose from a variety of plans, whether it’s a Flat Fee MLS listing or a full-support package.
- Advanced Technology: Some America discount real estate companies like Houzeo offer high-tech tools like showings and offer management platforms, a mobile app, etc. These tools streamline your home sale.
❌ Drawbacks of Discount Real Estate Brokers
- Limited Agent Support in Basic Plans: Some services may not help with pricing, offer negotiations, or closing in their basic plans.
- Inconsistent Service Quality: Discount agents handle multiple homes simultaneously. This may affect the service quality you receive and delay your home-selling timeline.
- Additional Costs: Some agents offer specific services like scheduling showings and open houses or professional photography at extra costs. This can increase the overall cost of selling your house.
- High Cancellation Fees: A few discount brokers may charge high cancellation fees even if you want to cancel the plan before your property is listed.
Types of Discount Real Estate Brokers
Home sellers can choose from two main types of discount real estate brokers:
- Flat Rate Discount Brokers: They list your home on the MLS for a flat fee instead of a 3% commission. It can cost between $249 to over $4,000. Flat Fee MLS Services offer maximum exposure and agent assistance for a low fee.
- Fixed Percentage Discount Brokers: These brokers charge a fixed percentage of your home’s sale price. Typically, it is lower than the traditional 3%. Depending on the real estate brokerage you choose, these rates may vary from 1% to 2.5%.
If you’re selling a luxury property in New York, Los Angeles, or any other upscale U.S. market, a flat-rate broker is a smart choice. Since their fee remains the same regardless of your home’s price, you can save on paying a high percentage-based commission.
How to Find Discount Real Estate Brokers Near Me?
Here’s a list of the best discount Realtors in United States:
What Tools Are Used by Discount Brokers?
Discount real estate brokers in America use technology to lower costs and simplify the home-selling process. With tools like online dashboards and offer management, they let you handle most of the process digitally.
However, Houzeo takes it to the next level with smarter technology, greater control, and a seamless online experience tailored for today’s home sellers. With Houzeo, you get tools like:
- E-Signature and Digital Documents: Sign and submit paperwork online for faster processing and a 100% online experience.
- Mobile App: List your home, schedule showings, compare offers—all with the Houzeo mobile app.
- Pricing Tools and CMA Access: Use Houzeo’s Home Worth Calculator and get an estimate of your house’s approximate value.
How to Choose the Right Discount Real Estate Broker?
Choosing the right discount listing agent can feel like navigating an alligator alley, tricky but not impossible! Here’s how to make the right decision:
- Assess Your Selling Needs: Consider whether you need full-service support or just a basic MLS listing. If you can handle the negotiations and closing paperwork yourself, you can go for basic listing-only plans.
- Compare Pricing and Services: Check the list of services and their prices from different companies. Ensure the company you choose doesn’t have any hidden fees that will increase your overall expenses.
- Evaluate Technology and Tools: Check to see if your discount broker provides tools for offer and showings management. Also, ensure the home is visible to serious buyers browsing for properties for sale.
- Check Agent Support: Some companies offer virtual support, while others provide dedicated agents. Make the decision based on your requirements.
- Read Customer Reviews: Check platforms like Google, Trustpilot, and BBB for authentic reviews. Take note of closing success stories, responsiveness, and service quality.
Yes, discount brokers like Houzeo are worth it for home sellers. They help sellers save thousands by offering lower real estate commission fees. A reputable discount broker ensures maximum profit and strong market exposure for your property sale.
👉 Ready to Sell Your Home? List with the best discount broker!
When Not to Choose a Discount Broker?
While discount real estate brokers work well for many sellers, their basic plans often come with limited services. In some situations, you may need the support and expertise of a full-service agent. Here are cases where a discount broker may not be the right fit:
- You’re Selling a Luxury or High-End Property: High-value homes in major markets such as New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago often require premium marketing, professional staging, and strategic negotiations. Luxury buyers expect a full-service experience that some discount brokers may not offer.
- Your Sale is Legally or Logistically Complex: A property in probate, trust, shared ownership, or liens can be hard to sell. So, along with a full-service broker, it’s also best to choose a real estate attorney.
If your home is significantly damaged or outdated and requires major repairs to attract buyers, a discount real estate agent may not be the best option. In such cases, you should sell your house fast for cash to investors or cash buyers and avoid repair costs.
Alternatives to Discount Real Estate Brokerages
Here are some other options to consider when selling a house:
- Flat Fee MLS: With Flat Fee MLS services, you pay a small upfront fee to get your home on the MLS. It’s a cost-effective way to reach buyers while managing the sale yourself and saving thousands in commissions.
- For Sale By Owner Websites: If you can roll up your sleeves and handle everything from listing to closing, along with the paperwork, you should sell FSBO. However, choose a For Sale By Owner website that provides MLS access and 5-star customer support.
- Full-Service Realtor: Don’t want the stress of doing it all? Opt for a traditional real estate agent. However, you’ll have to pay a 6% agent fee.
- Cash Buyers: Cash home buyers, such as iBuyers, investors, and home flippers, actively look for homes on the MLS. If you want to avoid repairs and sell your home fast for cash, this can be your best bet!
Yes, many cash buyers are legit but do your due diligence. Look for companies with verified reviews, BBB ratings, and clear, transparent offers. You must avoid those asking for upfront fees.
Should You Choose Discount Real Estate Brokers?
Yes, in real estate market, discount brokers are a smart way to save thousands on realtor commissions without compromising on service. Platforms like Houzeo offer MLS exposure, digital tools, and top-rated support with plans starting at just $249.
