$35,000—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: Oahu discount brokers get all that done for a fraction of the cost!
Houzeo, Oahu’s #1 discount real estate service, offers virtual full-service assistance for just $499. 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 in Oahu are Houzeo, Clever Real Estate, Oahu.RE, UpNest, Redfin, and Trelora.
- Houzeo is the best discount real estate service in Oahu. 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.
- Beware of hidden fees when selecting a discount broker. Pricing varies by region, so read the fine print.
- Assess crucial factors such as pricing, service quality, and transparency to make an informed and confident decision.
Rankings: Top 6 Oahu Discount Real Estate Brokers
We’ve listed the top 6 discount real estate brokers in The Gathering Place based on how much you can save on an average $725,000 home.
| Rank | Discount Real Estate Broker / Company | Listing Fee | Max Savings | 100% Online | Mobile App |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Houzeo.com | $499 Flat Fee | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 2. | Clever Real Estate | 1.5% Commission | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| 3. | OahuRE | $3,500 Flat Fee | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| 4. | Upnest | 4.3% or As decided by the agent | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| 5. | Redfin | 1% Commission | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| 6. | Trelora | 1% Commission | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
Types of Real Estate Discount Brokers in Oahu
There are two types of Oahu discount real estate brokers:
- Flat Rate Discount Brokers: Also called Flat Fee MLS companies, these discount realty services let you list your home for a fixed upfront fee. A Flat Fee MLS Hawaii listing service costs between $399 to $4,000.
- Fixed Percentage Discount Brokers: These discount Realtors charge a fixed percentage of the home’s sale price. Typically, it is anything lower than the traditional 3% fee: 1%, 1.5%, 2% or 2.5%, etc.
Reviews: 3 Best Flat Rate Discount Real Estate Companies in Oahu
1. Houzeo.com: Max Savings, No Hidden Fees
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.
Houzeo is Oahu’s #1 ranked real estate brokerage company. It provides an unbeatable combination of maximum savings, and 5-star customer support, and is available both on iOS and Android platforms.
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. OahuRE
GREAT LOCAL EXPOSURE
Listing Fee: $3,500OahuRE.com is a Hawaii-based, full-service real estate discount broker. They offer two packages:
- Flat Fee – ($3,500): They charge a flat fee of $3,500 to list your home on the MLS, payable only after closing. This package includes market analysis, a closing cost calculator, paperwork assistance, and more.
- Full Service – (2% Commission): This is a full-service package that charges 2% of the final sale price at closing. Their services include agent assistance, professional photography, extensive marketing, etc.
👉 Our Take: We recommend the Flat Fee package as it comes with all the services you would require as a home seller. However, both packages seem a bit expensive. Other Flat Fee MLS companies offer similar services for less.
Based on our research, the benefits of OahuRE are:
- No Upfront Fee: You only pay after the sale closes, reducing financial risk during the process.
- Agent Representation: They will assign an agent that will help you through every step of the process. This helps you to stay updated and makes the sales process easier.
- Professional Photography: You get a professional shoot for your home along with photo editing for enhanced appeal.
- Additional Features: Their full-service includes a transaction management system, a showing feedback system, a customized website linked, and more.
Here are some limitations we found with OahuRE:
- Limited Coverage: Service availability is limited to Hawaii, limiting broader market reach for clients.
- Reduced Personalization: $3,500 package lacks personalized support, reducing service flexibility compared to full-service option.
OahuRE has a rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 90+ reviews on Google.
Oahu.RE offers both flat fee as well as commission-based full-service packages to home sellers. You get customized websites and other technical advantages to manage the home sale process.
However, their coverage is limited and so is their client base. They have more services for home sellers than buyers.
Reviews: 3 Best Fixed Percent Discount Brokers in Oahu
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.
UpNest is a licensed agent-matching brokerage headquartered in California. The parent company, Move, Inc. (Realtor.com) acquired Upnest in June 2022.
UpNest pairs you with local agents with proven sales records. However, you may end up paying a high commission to the agent.
5. Redfin: 1% Listing Fee, Statewide 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.
Redfin connects you with real estate agents in your area by utilizing technology and market data. However, your savings are not guaranteed.
You need to buy a house through Redfin within a year to get back 0.5% of the listing fee. If you do not opt for that, you lose out on the refund.
6. Trelora
130+ Reviews
130+ Reviews
FULL-SERVICE REALTY
Listing Fee: 1% of sale price at closingTrelora is a full-service realty. It simplifies home ownership and makes real estate transactions transparent and fair.
- 1% of the Sale Price at Closing: Trelora lists and advertises your home on multiple marketplaces at just 1% of the sale price, which is typically a minimum of $3,000.
- 1% Buyer Broker Commission: Trelora offers just 1% buyer broker commission, with an option to cancel anytime until you go under contract.
👉 Our Take: Trelora is a good choice for sellers who prioritize savings and simplicity, but those who need hands-on agent attention may want to consider alternatives.
Here’s what makes Trelora a suitable option for your real estate transaction:
- Market Exposure: Along with the local MLS, your listing will also be advertised on sites like Realtor.com, Zillow, Trulia, etc.
- No Hidden Fees: Trelora doesn’t charge any hidden fees. The cost of all their services is included in the 1% of the sale price.
- Professional Photographers: Trelora’s listing package includes professional photography of your house to highlight its features.
There are some disadvantages of Trelora that you should consider, including:
- Lack of Personalized Support: Trelora might be less suitable if your situation is complicated and requires more personalized support.
- Limited Coverage: Trelora is available only in Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Washington.
- Weak Customer Support: Customers have experienced a lack of clear communication while working with Trelora agents.
Trelora has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 on Yelp.
» Trelora Reviews: Check out the customer reviews that can help you know more about Trelora.
Trelora is a real estate website that puts home sellers, agents, and buyers under the same roof.
Their agents handle multiple clients at a time. This could lead to miscommunication and a lack of personalized support.
Discount Real Estate Brokers Oahu: How Much Will You Save?💲
Oahu discount brokers can help you save almost the entire 6% commission, depending on your home’s worth.
If you choose a 6% full-service Realtor, you’d pay $45,000 to sell an average $750,000 house in The Gathering Place. But, if you choose a flat-rate broker company, you save thousands. With Houzeo’s Platinum plan, you only pay $9,874 and save $35,126!
NAR Settlement Saves Sellers Thousands in Commission
The NAR Settlement went into effect on August 17, 2024. Buyer agent commissions can no longer be offered on the MLS. This means sellers will save thousands! But it also means there’s a lot more compliance and litigation risks.
Here’s what this means for you:
- Sellers Can Save Thousands in Commissions: You will likely be paying much less than the traditional 3% buyer agent commission. That’s because buyer agent commissions will be negotiated twice: Once when buyers engage Buyer Agents and again when sellers review offer contracts.
- Seller Priority #1 Will Be Paperwork (to Mitigate Compliance & Litigation Risks): Buyer agents mitigate all types of risks. From seller disclosures, offer contracts, contingencies, inspections, repair requests, appraisal, and closing – Buyer agents keep the paperwork tight. Their state licensing authorities, Realtor associations, and MLS’ audit paperwork compliance. Without buyer agents, sellers will have to learn and adapt. Or risk expensive litigation.
- Negotiations Can Now Feel Like Haggling: Buyer agent commissions will now be part of offer contracts and buyer agency agreements. Buyers may ask sellers to include commissions in the form of seller concessions. That means home buyers and sellers alike will be negotiating commissions. Sellers will need expert licensed brokers to help them with these negotiations.
- Buyer Agent Commissions Can Be Offered Offline: Buyer agent commissions can still be offered outside of the MLS. They just cannot be advertised on the MLS.
Discount Realtors in Oahu: Pros and Cons
Even though cheap Realtors in Oahu will save you thousands in commissions, you should consider the advantages and disadvantages of hiring one:
Pros ✅
- Sell Home for a Discounted Fee: You’ll pay less fees for a discount real estate listing in Oahu than a 6% Realtor. Even if you only want to list your Hawaii home on MLS, you pay a much lower fee than the typical 3% listing agent fee.
- Receive Full-Service Realtor Services: Discount real estate agents in Oahu will provide the basic services that any traditional agent would. This includes assistance with pricing your home, marketing, paperwork, and negotiations.
Cons ❌
- You May Become a Victim of Hidden Fees: Some discount brokerages in Oahu may charge hidden fees or sell essential services a la carte. Beware of shady discounted agents who lure you in with significantly low fees. Do your research and look at the best discount realtors in Hawaii.
- Unreliable Service Quality: Discounted real estate brokers in Oahu handle multiple clients at once to make up for the reduced commission rate. They may not be able to provide personalized assistance all the time.
- High Cancellation Fees: An Oahu discount real estate broker can charge a minimum withdrawal fee within a specified period. Remember to carefully review the terms and conditions of the contract before signing.
How to Choose the Right Oahu 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 in Oahu:
- 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 in Oahu.
- 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.
Alternatives to Discount Real Estate Agents in Oahu
Here are some options if you do not want to opt for a discount Realtor in Oahu:
- Sell Your Home For Sale By Owner: In a FSBO sale, you’ll have to opt for “DIY” marketing strategies like using FSBO signs, word of mouth, open houses, etc. But your listing won’t be on Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, and Homes.com! Meanwhile, FSBO websites in Hawaii will help you list on the MLS and increase exposure.
- Sell Your House to Cash Buyers: Almost all cash buyers in Hawaii scour the MLS for Oahu homes for sale. This includes iBuyers, investors, and home flippers.
- Sell With a Full-Service Realtor: If you are not interested in saving your equity, you can hire a full-service, in-person Realtor in Oahu. You’ll end up paying a full 5% to 6% commission. That’s $43,500 on a $725,000 home gone!
» Houzeo Reviews: Find out what customers have to say about Houzeo—Oahu’s best home-selling website.
