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11 min read Jan 31, 2024

Discount Real Estate Brokers in Houston, TX (2024 Updates)

From Montrose to River Oaks, home sellers across Houston dread the 6% real estate agent commission. The best discount real estate brokers use cutting-edge technology and stellar customer service making it easy to sell your home.

👉🏻 Key Takeaways

  • Discount real estate brokers will help you list your home for 0.5% to 2% commission. Traditional listing brokers charge 2.5-3%.
  • The discount is on the listing fee. You still have to pay the buyer agent commission, typically 2.5-3%.
  • Discount real estate brokers will save you between $5,000 to $20,000 on average.
  • Houzeo.com is America’s best discount real estate company. Houzeo offers the best combination of maximum exposure, commission savings, cutting-edge tech, and stellar customer service.

We’ve spent thousands of hours researching discount real estate brokers and compiled our list of the best discount real estate brokers.

RankDiscount Real Estate Broker / CompanyListing FeeAdditional ChargesMax Savings100% Online5-Star Reviews*Mobile App
1.Houzeo$349
Flat Fee
2.Leslie Lerner Properties$4500 Flat Fee
3.Creekstone Real Estate$1095 upfront fees
or 1% at closing.
4. ListingSpark0.5% of the closing fee
5. SimpleShowing1% of the sale price

Reviews: Best Discount Real Estate Brokers & Companies in Houston, TX

1. Houzeo.com

#1 Discount Real Estate Service

Houzeo.com

Houzeo Logo
  • Listing Fee: $399
  • Available nationwide
  • 5 Stars 4.9/5 (8,400+ Reviews)

Houzeo is a top technology-driven real estate platform. It offers 4 different packages:

  • Bronze Package ($399): List your house for 6 months. You can upload 24 house photos.
  • Silver Package ($399+0.5% at Close): List your home for six months and post maximum photos. Unlimited open houses and listing modifications are included in this package.
  • Gold Package ($429+0.5% at Close): This gives you all the benefits of the Silver package. It also provides licensed broker assistance, contract review, etc.
  • Platinum ($449+1% at Close): This package offers virtual full-service support with a licensed broker. You can list for 12-month. Brokers assist you in negotiations, disclosures, and closing.

👉 Our Take: We recommend Houzeo to all home sellers. The company has an excellent customer rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars. It has extensive coverage across 47 states + DC, a feat achieved by only a handful of other services.

» Houzeo Reviews: Houzeo is 100% online. You can finish listing formalities within 60 minutes.

These are the key features that make Houzeo one of the top discount real estate brokers:

  • Significant Commission Savings: You will pay just a small flat fee to list on MLS. On average, home sellers who used Houzeo saved $11,490.
  • No Hidden Fees: All costs are disclosed upfront so you don’t have to worry about hidden charges.
  • Near Nationwide Coverage: Houzeo operates in 47 states and DC, with ongoing plans for expansion.
  • Max Exposure: Houzeo packages give you access to renowned MLS companies.
  • Advanced Technology: Eliminate the hassle of extensive paperwork. E-signature and online forms make house listing quick and easy.
  • 5-star Customer Service: Dedicated customer support addresses your every concern easy.
  • Mobile App: Houzeo’s mobile app lets you manage showing requests from verified buyers and buyer agents. You can either accept, reject, or reschedule showings at your convenience.

There are no dealbreakers with Houzeo.

» Houzeo Reviews: Houzeo is rated “Excellent” by 7,796+ happy customers on Google Reviews and Trustpilot!

Houzeo Reviews: With over 5,000+ happy customers, Houzeo is the most trusted discount real estate broker.

Houzeo.com is Houston’s #1 ranked Flat Fee service. Houzeo provides an unbeatable combination of max savings, 5-star customer support, and cutting-edge technology.

Houzeo’s Bronze Package is priced at $329+, the Silver Package is priced at $399+, and the Gold at $379 + 0.5% (Minimum $999) at closing. Sellers can ask for the full-service Platinum package which costs $349 + 1% (Minimum $999) at closing.

2. Leslie Lerner Properties

WELL ESTABLISHED IN THE INDUSTRY

Leslie Lerner Properties

Leslie Lerner Properties Houston TX
  • Listing Fee: $4500
  • 4.5stars 4.6/5 (13 reviews)

Leslie Lerner Properties is a flat fee full-service company. They provide services to both home buyers and home sellers.

For Home Sellers

  • $4500 Flat Fee: It includes listing, marketing, and additional features like social media marketing, contract negotiation, photography, lockbox, “For Sale” signs, closing assistance, and many more. They list properties on Realtor.com,  Homes.com, Trulia, Zillow, Google, and more.

For Home Buyers

  • Buyers Rebate Program: Leslie Lerner Properties offer rebates to buyers from their own buyer agent commissions. They offer up to 1.5% buyer’s rebate (from a total of 3%), depending on the number of houses shown to you by the brokerage.

👉 Our Take: Leslie Lerner Properties is a great option for your real estate experience as they offer significant features and benefits for both home buyers and home sellers.

Here are some advantages of choosing Leslie Lerner Properties:

  • Experienced Team: Leslie Lerner Properties have qualified agents who help sellers through the entire sale process.
  • Market Exposure: They have a huge market coverage. They list your houses on HAR.com Realtor.com,  Homes.com, Cyberhomes, Trulia, Zillow, Google, and the Galveston Daily News. 
  • Additional Services: They also help you with drawing contracts, repairs negotiation, and assistance at closing.

Here are some red flags you should consider before choosing them:

  • Not Fully Online: Leslie Lerner Properties is not 100% online which makes the process manual and time-consuming. You’ll have to conduct tours and communicate with buyers on your own. This may not be ideal for you if you are a first-time seller or lack time to manage your property sale.
  • Mobile App: They do not provide any mobile application service to their customers.

Leslie Lerner Properties has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 13 reviews on Google.

Leslie Lerner Properties has been around since the 1990s. They provide flat fee service to home sellers. They also have a buyer’s rebate program.

However, they are not fully online, making the process manual and time-consuming.

3. Creekstone Real Estate

👨‍💼GOOD CUSTOMER SERVICE

Creekstone Real Estate

logo image
  • Listing Fee: $1,095 upfront fees or 1% at closing.
  • 5 Stars  5.0/5.0 (11 reviews)

Creekstone Real Estate is a full-service flat fee listing service based in Houston, Texas. They offer sellers 2 packages that can help them sell their property without compromising on quality service.

Creekstone Real Estate for Home Sellers

  • Discount Packages: Creekstone Real Estate offers a $1,095 flat fee package that includes a 6-month listing. The 1% commission package includes full services along with professional photography and a yard sign.
  • Agent Support: Low-commission real estate agents at Creekstone are highly qualified and are known for their customer-centric attitude.

Creekstone Real Estate for Home Buyers

  • New Listings: The brokerage’s website includes information on new listings which home buyers can search through.

👉 Our Take: Creekstone Real Estate is a good option if you are looking for discount real estate brokers in Texas. They offer full service for home sellers at a reduced fee. For home buyers though there aren’t enough significant features.

Creekstone Real Estate helps sellers save a large sum of money. You have the following advantages if you sell with them.

  • Market Exposure: Your property features in real estate websites like HAR.com, Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com.
  • Multiple Packages: Creekstone Real Estate consists of two packages- Package A ($1,095 Flat Fee) and Package B (1% at closing). Both packages cover different services and provide a great option for sellers.

In our research, we found certain red flags about Creekstone Real Estate:

  • No Specific Services to Home Buyers: Despite being a brokerage, Creekstone Real Estate does not cater well to home buyers.

Creekstone Real Estate has 5 out of 5 stars from 11 reviews on Google.

Based in Houston, Creekstone Real Estate is a local discount real estate brokerage. They offer multiple packages to home sellers for flat fees or at discounted commission rates.

Creekstone Real Estate can be a good option for home sellers. However, they offer limited services to home buyers.

4. ListingSpark

LOCAL EXPERT

ListingSpark

ListingSpark logo
  • Listing Fee: $1,499 - $2,999
  • Limited coverage
  • 4.75 Stars  4.6/5.0 (165+ Reviews)

ListingSpark is a renowned flat fee discount brokerage in the US. It offers 2 listing packages:

  • Spark Plan ($1,499): This includes paperwork assistance and syndicated house listing on major real estate websites. You receive a Supra digital lockbox, professional photographs, escrow services, and a “For Sale” sign.
  • Premium Plan ($2,999): This includes all the features of the Spark plan. You also get pricing support, open house signage, e-flyer blasts, and customer support.

👉 Our Take: Listing Spark’s package covers all the services you need to sell your house. These packages are relatively higher as compared to other discount real estate companies.

» How Does Listing Spark Work? Read this to know how Listing Spark exactly works.

ListingSpark offers certain advantages:

  • Quick Listing: It takes 20 minutes to fill out the details on the ListingSpark website. The listing will go live within 24 hours after the documentation is completed.
  • Add-on Features: They offer benefits like professional photographs, a lock box, a yard sign, title insurance, and escrow services.
  • 24 x 7 Customer Support: The customers spoke positively about their reliable staff who is available 24×7.

ListingSpark offers certain disadvantages:

  • Hidden Charges: It charges a $350 transaction facilitation fee if your buyer approaches you without an agent.
  • Limited Coverage: ListingSpark caters to only 16 cities in Texas.
  • High Price: They offer a full-service package at a significantly higher price.

ListingSpark has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Google.

Listing Spark Reviews: Know what clients are saying about Listing Spark services.

ListingSpark is a real estate brokerage firm and For Sale By Owner platform. Owned by Aaron Jistel, the company also provides title and closing services under its title company, SparkTitle.

However, the coverage of ListingSpark is restricted only to Texas. Moreover, you must pay a termination cost if you decide to terminate your listing at any point.

5. SimpleShowing

MAXIMUM SAVINGS

Simple Showing

simpleshowing logo
  • Listing Fee: 1% of Sale Price
  • Restricted coverage
  • 5 Stars 5/5 (142+ Reviews)

SimpleShowing is a percentage-based discount broker which offers the house listing services at 1%.  It also offers to pay 1% of the closing costs or $5,000 cashback on such costs.

👉 Our Take:  The fixed 1% listing commission may be expensive if you have a less-valued home, say $150,000-$200,000. Instead, you should look for a flat fee pricing model.

SimpleShowing offers the following advantages:

  • Professional Photography: They arrange for professional photography and videos of home with no additional charge.
  • Local Agent: The agent will assist you right from valuing your home till closing.

SimpleShowing offers the following disadvantages:

  • Not the Best Agents: SimpleShowing might not be able to match you with the best agent.
  • Limited Coverage: It provides services in only 3 states – Florida, Texas, and Georgia.

SimpleShowing has a 5 out of 5 stars rating on Zillow.

SimpleShowing is a full-service brokerage licensed in GA, FL, and TX. They use technology, such as their mobile app, to make the traditional home-selling process easier.

However, with their limited coverage and agents, they might not cover all your needs.

Here’s a quick recap of the best discount real estate brokers in America:

America’s Best Discount Real Estate Brokers (2024)

We’ve reviewed the best discount real estate brokers in 2024

What Are Discount Brokers and Companies?

Discount real estate brokers are companies or agents who sell your home for less than the standard 2.5 to 3% commission. Sellers receive basic real estate services at a pre-negotiated fee of 0.5% to 2% or even a flat fee.

The reduced fee can easily save sellers thousands in commissions.

You may be now wondering if their services are comparable to those of a traditional Realtor at this point. Discount real estate brokers typically offer the same services as full-service brokers. The key difference is in pricing.

    🤔 Do you offer buyer agent commission to discount brokerages?

    YES! Most real estate discount brokers and brokerages will recommend you pay a full buyer agent fee. It is typically between 2% and 3% in most states.

    It is vital to pay a competitive commission to the buyer’s agent. This will ensure you sell your home quickly while still receiving the best price possible.

Types of Discount Brokers

Find a discount real estate broker that fits your budget and saves you the most money! The four major types of real estate discount brokerages and companies are as follows:

1. Flat Fee MLS Companies: Flat Fee MLS companies get you on the MLS for a small flat fee saving you thousands in commissions. Best Flat Fee MLS listing companies like Houzeo can get you on the MLS within 48 hours, or even faster!

2. Flat Rate Full-Service Companies: These companies charge a fixed fee instead of the regular 3% commission. This amount can be anywhere between $3,000 and $5,000. A flat rate Realtor is perfect for homes priced on the higher end.

3. Low-Commission Estate Agents: Low commission discount brokers offer full-service packages. These are usually priced at 1% or 2%. They cover everything from listing, negotiations, and pricing.

4. Virtual Full Service: A virtual full-service discount broker handles everything online. Companies like Houzeo, also provide full-service options that are 100% online. All services including negotiation and marketing support are at no additional cost.

Pros and Cons of a Discount Realtor

The primary benefit of working with discount real estate brokers is that they have lower overhead costs. However, a discount broker may not have as much time to communicate. They juggle many clients and may not be available for your queries.

Pros

  • Reduced Fees: You’ll pay less for listing costs. While standard brokers typically charge at least 3%, discount brokers may charge as little as 0.5% to 1%.
  • Full Access to Basic Real Estate Services: You receive the same basic services as you would with a traditional agent. They provide assistance with pricing, marketing, and negotiations.
  • Streamlined Process: A low-cost Realtor facilitates the selling process. They are motivated to work efficiently and eliminate all unnecessary steps from the sales process.

Cons

  • Not Enough Savings: Some discount brokerages may charge hidden fees or sell their services a la carte. This might add to your expenses.
  • Not for First-Time Sellers: Most discount real estate brokerages are digital, so you almost never have to talk to anyone in-person. A first-time seller or buyer who needs some hand-holding may not be able to benefit much.
  • Lack of Personal Attention: Discount Realtors handle multiple clients at once to make up for the reduced commission rate. They may not be able to provide personalized services.
  • High Cancellation Fee: A discount realty company can charge a minimum withdrawal fee within a specified period of time. Remember to carefully review the terms and conditions of the contract before signing.

Discount Real Estate Brokers to Avoid

Some agent-matching websites advertise themselves as “free”. But in reality, they keep a portion of the commission received by the discount real estate brokers. Because you pay the commission, this amount comes out of your pocket.

For example, List With Clever promotes itself as an informational real estate website that matches sellers with discount realtors. Even though Clever claims to be “free”, 25% to 40% of your commission will be directed to Clever as a “Referral Fee”.

» Clever Real Estate Reviews: Check out what you lose when you sell or buy with Clever!

💸 Save Thousands in REALTOR Commission



Sell your house with Houzeo.com for a small flat fee – as low as $349!


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How to Choose a Discount Realtor or Company?

It is essential to select the right real estate agent for your home-selling journey. The following are a couple of pointers to assist you with picking the ideal discount broker or company.

1. Savings: Discount real estate brokers have a variety of pricing structures. So, choose one that maximizes savings while still providing all of the services you require.

2. Technology: Choose companies that use cutting-edge technology, offer online paperwork, and have a mobile app.

3. Customer Reviews: Check for online customer reviews. This helps you to get an idea of the kind of services you are going to receive.

How Much Can I Save With a Discount Realtor?

As a seller, you can save anywhere between $1,632 and $ 6,680.

Typically, home sellers pay 6% of total realtor commissions. The total commission is divided between the listing agent (3%) and the buyer’s agent (3%). Discount real estate brokers pre-negotiate a reduced listing agent commission of 1% to 2%.

Therefore, you save a commission of 4% to 5% on your home sale.

As a home buyer, you get a buyer’s rebate – a type of cashback received after the sale. A typical buyer rebate is 1% to 2% of the home’s purchase price. For example, Leslie Lerner Properties offers a buyer rebate of 1.5% to clients who sell and buy with Leslie Lerner Properties within 1 year.

However, in order to qualify for this buyer rebate, buyers must fulfill specific requirements. The most important is the minimum price range.

    🤔 What is a home buyer rebate?

    A Realtor rebate is a type of cashback you receive as a buyer. Some brokerages and agents offer these rebates as an incentive to attract more buyers. Buyer rebates are allowed in 40 states.

Who Should Use a Discount Broker?

Discount Brokers are ideal for sellers and buyers who want to focus on savings.

  • Sellers on a Tight Budget: Homeowners who wish to save money might list with a low-fee Realtor. This can help them save big. 
  • Real Estate Investors: Real estate investors who frequently trade can benefit from low-commission discount brokers.
  • House Flippers: Home flipping is a strategy where an investor purchases a property to renovate it and sell it for a profit. Home flippers can save thousands on agent commissions by selling via discount brokers.

Discount Realtor Near Me

Alternatives to Discount Real Estate Brokers in Houston

Here are some options if you do not want to opt for a discount Realtor in Houston, Texas.

  • Flat Fee MLS Companies: Flat Fee MLS Houston companies list your property on your local MLS for a flat fee of a few hundred dollars. You can save on commissions and also take advantage of their technology for a faster sale.
  • List With a Full-Service Realtor: If you need hand-holding, we recommend you hire a full-service in-person Realtor. You’ll get all the professional help you need, but you will end up paying a full 5% to 6% commission.
  • Sell to an iBuyer: Many iBuyers, like Opendoor and Offerpad, purchase hundreds of homes in Montrose and other Houston markets. iBuyers can be a great option if you’re wondering how to sell my house fast in Houston.
  • Sell to Cash Home Buyers: Individual cash home buyers and companies that buy houses for cash in Houston make all-cash offers, usually within 24 to 48 hours. Cash buyers let you skip the hassle of listing on the MLS, inspection, appraisal, etc.
  • Sell For Sale By Owner: For Sale By Owner websites will help you list and sell a house by owner in Houston and save thousands in listing agent commission. Many FSBO websites will also get you listed on the MLS and help you with FSBO paperwork.

» Best FSBO Sites in Texas: We’ve researched and reviewed all the best For Sale By Owner sites in Texas. See our rankings!

Savings Calculator

Here’s how much you can save with Houzeo.com!

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  • Traditional Agent 46877

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Your savings via Houzeo

$14,705

Houzeo saves you $9,705 more than Leslie Lerner Properties!

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Are Discount Brokers Worth It?

YES! There are various advantages to using a discount real estate broker. Using a cheap brokerage can save you a lot of money. The commission savings can be significant.

There are several discounted real estate brokers on the market today, each with its own set of advantages. Examine factors such as listing fees, listing time, services provided, customer service, and coverage before you choose one.

With Houzeo, you can get your home on the MLS for a small flat fee. You get access to cutting-edge tools like offers dashboard, showings management, and many more to make your selling journey easy.

» List My House on MLS in Texas: The fastest way to get on the MLS!

Eager to Know How Houzeo Works?

We’ve got you covered. Check out the following video to understand how Houzeo works and why it is one of the best For Sale By Owner websites in the U.S.

What is Houzeo?

An overview of what the platform is all about

Start Your FREE Listing NOW!

» NEED MORE CLARITY? Read these exclusive Houzeo reviews and learn why the platform is the best in America’s competitive housing market.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who pays Realtor fees in houston, Texas?

Generally, it is the seller who pays the realtor fees for both the seller and the buyer agent. However, there are no laws that mandate this.

2. Are Realtor fees negotiable in Houston?

Yes! Realtor fees are negotiable in Houston. So, it's a good idea to look around and try to get a lower rate.

3. What percentage do most Realtors charge in Houston, Texas?

Most Realtors charge 6% in Houston. But this number can be anywhere from 5 percent to 7 percent.

4. Who pays the closing costs in Texas?

The seller pays the closing costs in Texas.

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