$26,500—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: Maryland discount brokers get all that done for a fraction of the cost!
Houzeo, Maryland’s #1 discount real estate service, offers virtual full-service assistance for just $349. That’s thousands of dollars in your pocket! Prefer in-person Realtor help? Clever Real Estate, with its 1.5% agent fee, is the next best option.
Key Takeaways:
- Discount real estate brokers save thousands in commission while still offering professional support.
- The 6 best discount brokers in Maryland are Houzeo, Clever Real Estate, Prevu, Houwzer, and Redfin.
- Houzeo is the best discount real estate service in Maryland. 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 its in-person, full-service Realtor assistance and 4.9-star rating.
Rankings: 6 Maryland Discount Real Estate Brokers
| Rank | Discount Real Estate Broker / Company | Total Commission | MLS Access | 100% Online | 5-Star Customer Support* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Houzeo | $349 Flat Fee | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 2. | Clever Real Estate | 1.5% Commission | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| 3. | Prevu | 1.5% Comission | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| 4. | Houwzer | 1% Commission | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| 5. | Cap Centre Mortgage | 1% Commission | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| 6. | Redfin | 1% Commission | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
*Companies rated 4.75 stars and above are considered 5-star.
How Do We Rank Discount Brokers?
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 on hidden charges into account.
Reviews: 6 Top Discount Real Estate Brokers in Maryland
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. Prevu
LIMITED AGENT NETWORK
Listing Fee: 1.5% CommissionPrevu offers a single commission-based package to home sellers.
- 1.5% 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!
4. HOUWZER
FAIR PRICING
Listing Fee: 1% CommissionHouwzer offers a streamlined, transparent real estate experience with full-service support from the top 1% of real estate agents:
- MLS Listing Plan: You pay a 1% listing commission. You get top agents who list on the MLS, manage marketing, coordinate showings, provide pricing guidance, negotiate, and ensure a smooth closing.
Here are some advantages of Houwzer:
- Top Agent Support: Expert agents handle the complete selling process from listing to closing for a fraction of traditional fees.
- In-House Title Services: You save on costly closings with their integrated Newfound Title services.
- Transparent Process: There are no hidden fees or unpleasant surprises at closing.
- Dedicated Team: You get a team of licensed professionals 7 days a week for personalized guidance.
In our research, we found the following drawbacks with the Ideal Agent:
- Inconsistent Agent Quality: Agent experience and professionalism can vary, which may impact the quality of service.
- Salaried Agent Motivation: Agents may lack the same incentive as commission-driven agents to negotiate aggressively.
- Limited Agent Choice: You cannot choose your agent, which may affect personalization and fit.
Ideal Agent has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 390+ reviews on Google.
👉 Our Take: We recommend Houwzer for sellers who want full-service support from top 1% agents. You get transparent pricing, in-house title services, and a dedicated team. However, agent quality may vary, communication can be delayed, salaried agents may lack strong motivation, and you cannot choose your agent.
5. Cap Centre Mortgage
1% LISTING FEE
Listing Fee: 1% CommissionCap Center Mortgage offers a single package to help you sell your home with full-service support from their experienced team:
- MLS Listing Plan: You pay a 1.5% commission on your home’s sale price that includes everything from listing to closing.
Here are some advantages of Cap Center Mortgage:
- Lower Commission: Pay a competitive 1%–1.5% listing fee, much less than the typical 2.5%–3% by traditional agents.
- Full-Service Support: Receive help from experienced local agents with MLS listing, marketing, showings, pricing, negotiations, and closing coordination.
- No Upfront Fees: Start selling with no fees and no obligation.
In our research, we found the following drawbacks of the Ideal Agent:
- Regional Focus: Full-service offerings may be limited outside Maryland and nearby regions.
- Online-Driven Process: Heavy reliance on digital tools may not suit sellers or buyers who prefer face-to-face interactions.
- Buyer’s Agent Commission Paid Separately: Sellers still pay the buyer’s agent fee on top of the listing fee.
👉 Our Take: We recommend Cap Center Mortgage for sellers who want full-service support at a reduced 1%–1.5% listing fee. However, services are mainly focused on Maryland, the process is largely online, and the buyer’s agent commission is still paid separately.
6. Redfin
NATIONWIDE BROKERAGE
Listing Fee: 1.5% of listing priceRedfin offers two packages for home sellers based on the type of properties they want to sell.
- Redfin Full-Service Agent – 1.5% Commission: It is a standard full-service package for listing, marketing and closing your sale.
- Redfin Premier Agent – 1.5% Commission: This is a high-end service for luxury properties that includes additional marketing and services for high-end buyers.
Note: If the sellers buy a property with Redfin, they have to pay only 1% of commission as listing fee instead of 1.5%.
Here are some advantages of choosing Redfin:
- Advanced Technology: Redfin is primarily known for its high-tech platform and mobile app.
- Near Nationwide Coverage: Redfin covers 50 states in the US.
- Assistance Through Closing: Redfin agents guide you through paperwork, marketing plans, and negotiations to make your closing easy and faster.
Here are some drawbacks of Redfin based on their customer reviews:
- Pricing Inaccuracy: Many sellers have complained that a lot area, a gated compound, or a city location are not considered during valuation.
- Slow Listing Process: According to Redfin’s listing agreement, a Redfin property takes 18 days to list on MLS. Services like Houzeo will list you on the MLS within 24 to 48 hours.
- Lack of Customer Service: There are a few negative reviews about the lack of personal attention by Redfin agents.
- 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: Due to agents handling multiple clients at once, customers have often complained that Redfin agents are not able to give personalized service.
Redfin has 3.5out of 5 stars from 1000+ reviews on Yelp.
» Redfin Reviews: Read more to make an informed decision before selling your home.
👉 Our Take: We recommend Redfin for its advanced technology. However, some flat fee services offer you the same technology and more at much lower costs.
Discount Brokers vs. Traditional Agents in Maryland
Are you wondering how to sell your home in Maryland? 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 Will You Save With a Discount Real Estate Broker in Maryland?
Almost $20,500! 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 $448,500, you would pay $26,910 to a traditional agent. However, with a discount real estate platform like Houzeo, you can save $20,955! You can use these savings to enjoy a Chesapeake Bay sailing trip or build a backyard pool.
✅ Benefits of Discount Real Estate Brokers
Here’s why discount real estate brokers might be the right choice for you:
- Lower Fees: You pay only 1% to 2% in agent fees instead of 6%. So, you save thousands in real estate commissions in Maryland.
- 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 Maryland discount real estate services 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
- Hidden Fees: Some discount brokerages in Maryland may charge hidden fees for additional a la carte services. You must do your research and opt for the best discount Realtors in MD.
- Inconsistent Service: Some discounted brokers in Maryland handle multiple clients at once, so personalized attention may be limited. They do this to make up for the reduced commission rate.
- High Cancellation Fees: A few of the discount brokers may impose a significant withdrawal fee if you cancel your agreement within a specific time frame.
Types of Discount Real Estate Brokers in Maryland
Maryland 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. This deal offers 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 Maryland real estate brokerage you choose, these rates may vary from 1% to 2.5%.
If you’re selling a luxury property in Bethesda, Potomac, or any other upscale Maryland 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.
Discount brokers can save you money, but sellers should consider possible compromises in service, negotiation, and sale price before deciding.
What Tools Are Used by Discount Brokers in Maryland?
Discount real estate brokers in Maryland 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 Maryland Discount Real Estate Broker?
Choosing the right discount listing agent can feel like navigating a crab trap, tricky but not impossible! Here’s how to make the right decision in Maryland:
- 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 showing management. Also, ensure the home is visible to serious buyers browsing for properties for sale in Maryland.
- 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.
When Not to Choose a Maryland 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 Bethesda or Potomac often require premium marketing, 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.
Alternatives to Discount Real Estate Brokerages in Maryland
Here are some other options to consider for selling a house in Maryland:
- Flat Fee MLS: With Flat Fee MLS services in Maryland, 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 in Maryland 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 in Maryland, such as ASAP Cash Home Buyers, HomeVestors, and Maryland Cash Home Buyers, 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!
Should You Choose Discount Real Estate Brokers in Maryland?
Yes, in Maryland’s real estate market, discount brokers are a smart way to save thousands on commissions without compromising on service. Platforms like Houzeo offer MLS exposure, digital tools, and top-rated support with plans starting at just $249.
» Houzeo Reviews: Find out what customers have to say about Houzeo—Maryland’s best home-selling website.
