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11 min read Jan 31, 2024

Discount Real Estate Brokers in Michigan (2024 Updates)

From Detroit to Grand Rapids, home sellers across Michigan are saving thousands on the traditional 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 in Michigan.

👉🏻 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.

Rankings: Best Discount Real Estate Brokers in Michigan

RankDiscount Real Estate Broker / CompanyListing FeeAdditional ChargesMax Savings100% OnlineMobile App
1.Houzeo$399
Flat Fee
2.Modern Way Realty$395
Flat Fee
3.Linked Realty$4,000
Flat Fee
4.UpNest2.5%
Commission
5.Ideal Agent2%
Commission

Reviews: Best Discount Real Estate Brokers in Michigan

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 is America’s #1 ranked real estate brokerage company. It provides an unbeatable combination of max savings, 5-star customer support, and cutting-edge technology.

Houzeo’s flat fee feature helps you save thousands on agent commissions. You also get dedicated customer support that makes the home-selling process much easier and effortless.

2. Modern Way Realty

COST-EFFECTIVE

Modern Way Realty

logo image
  • Listing Fee: $395 Flat Fee
  • 5 Stars  5/5 (95+ Reviews)

Modern Way Realty is a flat fee company based in Michigan. It offers below packages:

For Home Sellers:

  • Basic – Do it Yourself Package ($395): This package lists your house for 6 months with 20 professional photo uploads. You get access to their closing cost calculator, personal property page, and unlimited price/status change.
  • Premium – Full Service Package ($895): Your house gets listed for 6 months with 40 professional photo uploads. This package provides you with a dedicated agent, document review, closing assistance, etc.

For Home Buyers: 

  • Buyer’s Rebate: Home buyers get a 50% rebate from the buyer agent’s commission at closing. They also get assistance with offers, negotiations, inspection, appraisal, financing, and closing.

👉 Our Take: Modern Way Realty is a good choice for both buyers and sellers. Its Premium package provides a comprehensive, full-service experience for sellers. Buyers benefit from the rebate program and save thousands!

Modern Way Realty offers the following advantages:

  • 100% Online Process: The entire home listing and selling process is paperless and conducted online. Interactions with the agent are also virtual. This can save you a lot of time and hassle.
  • Maximum Market Exposure: Your property is listed on the local MLS and other popular sites like Realtor.com and Zillow. This way, your listing gets a lot of exposure to attract potential home buyers.
  • Agent Representation: The full-service package includes dedicated agent support. They will assist you at every step of your home-selling process.
  • Additional Features: You get access to a closing costs calculator, free showing time setup, and listing tools.

Modern Way Realty has certain disadvantages:

  • Limited Coverage: Modern Way Realty covers only the state of Michigan. The customer base is limited and so is the pool of potential buyers.
  • No Mobile App: There is no dedicated mobile application for home sellers and buyers. This restricts quick and convenient access to information and services.

Modern Way Realty has a rating of 5 out of 5 stars on Google.

Modern Way Realty is a licensed brokerage established by Ms. Melissa Socha. It offers its services only in Michigan. They have good customer feedback for their prompt responses and constant client support.

However, their coverage is limited resulting in a small pool of potential buyers.

3. Linked Realty

GREAT LOCAL EXPOSURE

Linked Realty

logo image
  • Listing Fee: $4,000 Flat Fee
  • 4.5 Stars 4.6/5  (5+ Reviews)

Linked Realty is a flat fee discount brokerage. It offers a single flat fee package.

  • Full-Service Package ($4,000): This package includes everything from market analysis to negotiations and closing of a house sale. Property marketing, contract writing, and document preparation are also part of its services.

👉 Our Take: Linked Realty offers a full-service package to sellers at a flat fee. However, it is affordable only for home sellers with high-value properties. The company does not offer any benefits to home buyers.

Linked Realty offers certain advantages:

  • Experienced Team: Linked Realty agents are highly qualified with years of experience. This allows agents to provide local market insights to the clients.
  • Maximum Market Exposure: Your property is listed on the MLS as well as popular sites like Zillow and Realtor.com. This way, your listing gets a lot of exposure to attract potential home buyers.
  • Showing Time Software: Linked Realty has in-house software to coordinate your property’s showings.

Linked Realty has certain drawbacks:

  • Limited Coverage: Linked Realty offers services only in Michigan. It does not have a large customer base.
  • No Mobile App: Linked Realty does not have a mobile application. It makes the transaction less efficient and time-consuming.

Linked Realty is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by home sellers on Google.

Linked Realty was established by Mr. Josh M in 2017. It offers home-selling services only in Michigan at a flat fee. It can be an advantage for high-value property owners.

However, there are no customer reviews available online. This does not give service assurance to sellers for their service quality.

4. UpNest

Negotiable FEES

UpNest

Upnest logo
  • Listing Fee: 2.5% of the Sale Price (or as decided by the agent)
  • Available in all major cities
  • 4.75 Stars  4.7/5 (295+ Reviews)

UpNest is a marketplace that connects home sellers and buyers with local agents.

  • Pricing: UpNest does not charge you any upfront fee. It allows their agents to discuss the pricing with you like commission, fees, discounts, etc.

👉 Our Take: UpNest introduces you to 2 to 3 agents once you register on their platform. You may face trouble in evaluating these agents concerning their experience and knowledge.

» Is UpNest Legit? Find out if UpNest can be the best option for your house sale.

UpNest offers certain advantages:

  • No Fees: UpNest does not charge you an upfront commission. Instead, you are introduced to an agent to discuss the services and commissions.
  • User-Friendly Dashboard: It has a user-friendly dashboard which makes it easy to compare agent profiles.
  • No Obligation Service: UpNest connects you with multiple agents as soon as you sign up with them. If you are not satisfied, then you can simply walk away.
  • Nationwide Coverage: Prevu offers service throughout the US. It connects you with the local agent who has current market insights.

» What is UpNest? Read the comprehensive study for UpNest to learn more details!

UpNest has certain disadvantages:

  • Lower Savings: The commission depends on your negotiation with the agent. A higher commission fixed would make you pay more.
  • Uncertain Customer Service: Some customers share feedback of agents being extremely helpful and knowledgeable. However, less experienced agents struggle to answer simple questions.

» How Does Upnest WorkAgent-matching at UpNest is pretty straightforward. Check it out!

UpNest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Google.

» UpNest Reviews: How Much Will it Save You in 2023?

UpNest is a licensed agent-matching brokerage. It is headquartered in California. Move, Inc.,(Realtor.com the parent company) acquired Upnest in June 2022.

UpNest pairs you with local agents with a proven sales record. However, you may end up fixing a high commission for the agent.

5. Ideal Agent

GOOD CUSTOMER SERVICE

Ideal Agent

Ideal Agent Logo
  • Listing Fee: 2% of Sale Price
  • Nationwide coverage
  • 4.9 Stars 4.8/5 (6,240+ Reviews)

Ideal Agent is an agent matching company. It offers a single listing package for its sellers:

  • Full Service (2% Commission): Ideal Agent charges a 2% commission on the home sales price. You will be charged $3,000 to sell a house worth $150,000.

👉 Our Take: Ideal Agent offers full-service assistance and excellent service for home sellers. However, it does not provide any cash rebates to buyers.

» What Is Ideal Agent? Know what Ideal Agent customers have to say about their services.

Ideal Agent offers certain advantages: 

  • Pre-Negotiated Commission: Ideal Agent has fixed the commission with their agents. This helps sellers to focus on the other aspects of the deal.
  • Time-Saving: You will be paired with the most capable agent. They’ll save you time and effort by giving you step-by-step assistance.
  • Dedicated Concierge: Their agents will assist you at each phase of the deal, from marketing to negotiation and closing.

» How Does Ideal Agent WorkHere is a detailed explanation of Ideal Agent services.

Ideal Agent offers certain disadvantages:

  • No-Multiple Matching Agent: The ideal agent matches the seller with only one agent. You don’t get to choose the agent based on your requirements.
  • Sub-Par Agent: Several customers complain about being assigned agents with low reliability.
  • No Buyer Support: Ideal Agent isn’t a buyer-focused platform and they do not offer any significant benefits for home buyers.

Ideal Agent has a rating of 4.9 out of 5 on TrustPilot.

» Is Ideal Agent Worth it? Find out how Ideal Agent can help you get higher profit. 

Steve Johnston established ldeal Agent in 2016. It is headquartered in Tampa. It offers all the traditional realtor services with a 2% commission on home sale value.

Ideal Agent lacks a modern technology system. Customers who have used their services have complained about hidden charges.

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!


START YOUR MLS LISTING NOW

 

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, Modern Way Realty offers a buyer rebate of 0.5% to clients who sell and buy with Modern Way Realty 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.

Alternatives to Discount Real Estate Brokers in Michigan

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

  • Flat Fee MLS Companies: Flat Fee MLS Michigan 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 Detroit and other Michigan markets. iBuyers can be a great option if you’re wondering how to sell my house fast in Michigan.
  • Sell to Cash Home Buyers: Individual cash home buyers and companies that buy houses for cash in Michigan 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 Michigan 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 Michigan: We’ve researched and reviewed all the best For Sale By Owner sites in Michigan. See our rankings!

Savings Calculator

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

New!

Savings in Michigan!

Enter Your Home Sale Price

$ Please enter your home price
  • Listing Fee
  • Traditional Agent 46877

    $15,000

  • idealagent

    $10,000

  • houzeo

    $349

houzeo

Your savings via Houzeo

$14,705

Houzeo saves you $9,705 more than Linked Realty!

Start Your Free Houzeo Listing Now

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 Michigan: 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 Michigan?

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 Michigan?

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

3. What percentage do most Realtors charge in Michigan?

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

4. Who pays the closing costs in Michigan?

The seller pays the closing costs in Michigan.

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