$31,500—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: Montana discount brokers get all that done for a fraction of the cost!
Houzeo, Montana’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 Montana are Houzeo, Montana Flat Fee MLS, UpNest, Redfin, and Coldwell Banker.
- Houzeo is the best discount real estate service in Montana. 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: Top 6 Montana Discount Real Estate Brokers
| Rank | Discount Real Estate Broker / Company | Listing Fee | Max Savings | 100% Online | 5-Star Reviews* | Broad Coverage | Mobile App |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Houzeo | $349 Flat Fee | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 2. | Clever Real Estate | 1.5% Commission | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| 3. | Montana Flat Fee MLS | $299 to $359,
Flat Fee | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| 4. | Upnest | 4.3% commission or As Decided by Agent | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| 5. | Redfin | 1% Commission | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 6. | Coldwell Banker | 2%-6% 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 for hidden charges into account.
Reviews: 6 Top Discount Real Estate Brokers in Montana
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. Montana Flat Fee MLS
MID-RANGE OPTION
Listing Fee: $299Montana Flat Fee MLS offers you two Flat Fee MLS packages:
- By Owner Package – $299: You can list your home on MLS for 6 months with 25 real estate photos. You will also get a Realtor.com (basic) listing. Additionally, the package includes state-required forms and disclosures, along with free status changes.
- By Owner Package – $359: This package includes everything from the $299 package. However, the included Realtor.com listing is premium. It also has a photo listing option.
Here are some green flags about Montana Flat Fee MLS:
- Affordable Packages: The company provides affordable options at $299 and $359.
- State Disclosures: You are provided with all the state-required forms and seller disclosures with all packages.
- Free Status Changes: Montana Flat Fee MLS offers free status changes with both packages.
In our research, we came across some drawbacks of Montana Flat Fee MLS:
- Lacks Tech: The website is quite basic with its lack of features, including the absence of a dashboard.
- No à la carte Services: The services included in the Flat Fee MLS packages are minimal. Additionally, there are no add-on services.
- No Credible Reviews: Montana Flat Fee MLS has no credible reviews from any trusted sites.
Montana Flat Fee MLS has no credible reviews.
👉 Our Take: Montana Flat Fee MLS offers packages that cater to budget-conscious sellers. However, none of the packages include agent assistance, and the absence of credible customer reviews can also be a cause for concern.
Reviews: 3 Best Fixed Percent Discount Brokers in Montana
4. Upnest
Negotiable FEES
Listing Fee: Varies as per the agentUpNest offers agent-matching services. Here’s how it works:
- No Upfront Cost: UpNest connects you with top local real estate agents at no upfront cost. Agents will discuss commission rates, fees, and potential discounts directly with you.
Here’s what UpNest offers:
- Multiple Agent Proposals: Get 3–5 commission quotes from top local agents. Compare options easily without contacting agents yourself.
- Quick Turnaround: Receive agent matches within 24 hours of signing up.
- Transparent Pricing: View all commission rates and potential savings upfront. There are no hidden fees or pressure to commit.
- Nationwide Coverage: It offers service throughout the US. It connects you with the local agent who has current market insights.
Here are some of the downsides of working with UpNest:
- No Guaranteed Savings: UpNest does not offer guaranteed savings. Instead, each agent sets their own listing fee.
- No Control Over Agent Selection: UpNest shows you commission quotes from selected agents. As a result, you might miss out on other qualified agents who are part of their network.
UpNest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Google.
» UpNest Reviews: Is UpNest actually saving you money in 2024? Read to find out.
👉 Our Take: With UpNest you get multiple real estate agent options to choose from. However, agents' commission rates and qualifications can vary significantly, and the quality of service may depend on the broker you select.
5. Redfin: 1% Fee, Nationwide Coverage
NATIONWIDE BROKERAGE
1.5% Listing FeeRedfin 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 3.7 out of 5 stars from 30+ reviews on Google.
» 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.
6. Coldwell Banker Realty
LOCAL YET NATIONAL
Listing Fee: 2.5%-3% of Sale PriceColdwell Banker offers a variety of free tools to the seller. It includes tools like a home value estimator, moving meter tool, local market data, and fast cash offer alternatives.
- 2.5%-3% Commission: Coldwell charges a traditional brokerage fee. It offers services like renovations, home staging, technology support, etc at no upfront cost. You may negotiate your offer with their agent to get a discount.
👉 Our Take: Coldwell Banker has a huge team of professional agents. They assist you at all the stages of your real estate transaction. However, we suggest reading the customer reviews before proceeding.
Coldwell Banker provides the following advantages:
- Local and Experienced Agents: Agents with local expertise help you learn more about the current housing market state. You can then price your house right.
- Seller’s Assurance Program: It offers benefits like home staging, renovations, and technology support at no upfront cost. You pay for this expense only after your house is sold.
- Home Financing: Coldwell Banker assists buyers with home financing options. This includes down payments, mortgage prequalification, loan approval, etc.
Coldwell Banker provides the following disadvantages:
- Poor Customer Feedback: Customers have mentioned issues regarding commission percentage and unprofessionalism.
- Undisclosed Commission: Coldwell Banker does not offer fixed packages like other discount brokerages. They don’t disclose pricing options until you consult with them, and without strong negotiation, you could pay more than necessary.
It has a rating of 1.3 out of 5 stars on Consumer Affairs.
Discount Brokers vs. Traditional Agents in Montana
Are you wondering how to sell your home in Montana? 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 in Montana?
Almost $24,500! 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 $529,200, you would pay $31,752 to a traditional agent. However, with a discount real estate platform like Houzeo, you can save $24,788! You can use these savings to take a fly-fishing trip on the Yellowstone River or build a backyard deck for mountain views.
✅ 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 Montana.
- 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 Montana 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
- 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 in Montana
Florida 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 Montana real estate brokerage you choose, these rates may vary from 1% to 2.5%.
If you’re selling a luxury property in Bozeman, Whitefish, or any other upscale Montana 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.
What Tools Are Used by Discount Brokers in Montana?
Discount real estate brokers in Montana 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 Montana Discount Real Estate Broker?
Choosing the right discount listing agent can feel like navigating a mountain pass, tricky but not impossible! Here’s how to make the right decision in Montana:
- 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 Montana.
- 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 Montana 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 Bozeman or Whitefish 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 Brokers in Montana
Here are some other options to consider for selling a house in Montana:
- Flat Fee MLS: With Flat Fee MLS services in Montana, 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 Montana 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 Montana, 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!
Should You Choose Discount Real Estate Brokers in Montana?
Yes, in Montana’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—Montana’s best home-selling website.
