Best 2% Commission Real Estate Brokerages of 2025

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By Ashley Simon Updated April 16, 2025
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Reviewed by Steve Nicastro Edited by Katy Baker

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Traditional real estate agents typically charge 2.5–3% to list your home, and sellers often pay another 2.5–3% to cover the buyer’s agent commission — adding up to 5–6% in total fees. 

But in 2025, you don’t have to pay that much. More brokerages now offer full-service listing agents for just 2% or less, helping you cut your total commission to as low as 4–4.5%. That could mean $5,000–$10,000 or more in savings, depending on your home’s sale price.

Even with lower commission options, most sellers still want expert help. In fact, 90% of recent home sellers used a real estate agent, and 88% listed their home on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) — showing how important agent support and exposure still are.[1]

We reviewed the top 2% commission realtor options to help you save thousands without sacrificing service. Clever Real Estate, Redfin, and Ideal Agent are three of the best companies offering low listing fees with experienced, full-service agents.

⚡ Get a better agent at a better rate. Find top local realtors from major brands like Keller Williams, Berkshire Hathaway, and RE/MAX — and get a pre-negotiated listing fee of just 1.5%. Answer a few quick questions, compare agent profiles side by side, and select the perfect match — with no added fees or obligation to move forward.

Best 2% commission realtors, ranked

Company
Customer Rating
Best for
Listing Fee
Availability
5.0
4,037 reviews
Top-tier agents, pre-negotiated savings
1.5%
Min. $3,000
Nationwide
Find Agents
On realestatewitch.com
Good for finding high-quality agents
5.0
6,975 reviews
Agent quality
2%
Min. $3,000
Nationwide
Best for buyers
5.0
646 reviews
Buyer savings
2%
Min. fee varies
Multi-state
Good for comparing your options
4.7
8,325 reviews
Agent selection
Varies by agent
Avg. is 2–2.5%
Nationwide
Best for 'buy and sell' savings
2.7
456 reviews
'Buy and sell' savings
1.5-2%
Min. fee varies
Nationwide
Best overall

Clever Real Estate

Find Agents
On realestatewitch.com
5.0
4,037 reviews

Listing Fee

1.5%

Active Since

2017

Buyer Savings

$250-$500

Our take

Reviews

Service details

Locations

Clever Real Estate delivers the best combination of savings and service of any competitor that we’ve reviewed. Its agents are held to high standards and provide full service and support for just a 1.5% listing fee, saving you thousands when you sell your home. In states where it's permitted, buyers can also get cash back at closing. Clever has more agents (19,000+) in more markets than most other low-commission options, plus the highest customer rating among brands we evaluated. Unlike some of its competitors, Clever also allows you to choose your own agent. It matches you up with multiple agents, and you can choose the one that best fits your needs.

Read the full Clever Real Estate review.

Pros

  • Low 1.5% listing fee for sellers — about half the typical rate
  • Up to $500 cash back for buyers
  • Agents have strong sales records and great customer reviews
  • Compare agent service packages and credentials before making a decision

Cons

  • Fewer agent options in certain rural areas
  • Add-ons like professional home staging may cost extra

SourceAverage RatingReview Count
BBB4.9119
Google4.9434
TrustPilot53,484
Weighted Average:54,037

Customer sentiment toward Clever Real Estate is overwhelmingly positive. Numerous reviewers praise the company for its high-quality agents, significant cost savings, and agent selection process. Clever Real Estate is also accredited by the BBB and has an A+ rating.

🟢 Primary positive themes

  • Professional service (34% of reviews)
  • Significant savings (33%)
  • Hands-on support (28%)
  • Easy process (27%)
  • Sells fast (22%)

  • Clever's free agent finding service offers pre-negotiated commission savings with top local real estate agents nationwide
  • Sellers pay a pre-negotiated 1.5% listing fee (half the average rate) to their realtor after a successful home sale
  • In states where commission rebates are allowed, buyers receive $250 cash back after closing ($500 if they buy and sell with a Clever agent)
  • You can compare agents' credentials, service offerings, and customer reviews before making a decision
  • To join Clever's network, real estate agents must have a strong track record of closed deals, 5+ years of experience, and highly positive customer reviews
  • Agents offer full service and support, including pricing advice, photography, marketing, negotiations, closing coordination, etc.

Clever is available nationwide.

Find top agents near you.
Good for finding high-quality agents

Ideal Agent

Learn More
On realestatewitch.com
5.0
6,975 reviews

Listing Fee

2%

Active Since

2016

Buyer Savings

No guaranteed savings

Our take

Reviews

Service details

Locations

Ideal Agent can connect you with a full-service realtor at a discounted listing fee of 2%. The company has high standards for the agents it recommends, claiming to work with only the top 1% based on sales volume in each agent's market. While the savings aren't as significant as some low commission alternatives, customers are generally happy with the outcome from their home sale. Not that buyers won't qualify for any saving with Ideal Agent, and the company's small network size means your agent selection will be limited.

Read our full Ideal Agent review.

Pros

  • Matched with a vetted, full-service realtor
  • 2% listing fee is slightly below industry average

Cons

  • Don't get to choose who you're matched with
  • Other brands offer better savings

SourceAverage RatingReview Count
BBB5117
Google4.8462
TrustPilot56,387
Yelp2.19
Weighted Average:56,975

Ideal Agent has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from customers. Reviews highlight the professionalism and expertise of the agents, as well as the personalized service provided by the concierge team during the matching process. Many customers report smooth transactions and quick home sales. Negative reviews are rare, but a few customers mention being matched with an agent who wasn't familiar with their market — likely due to Ideal Agent's relatively small network size.

🟢 Primary positive themes

  • Hands-on support (43% of reviews)
  • Professional service (40%)
  • Easy process (33%)
  • Sells fast (32%)
  • Prompt communication (30%)

Read our full Ideal Agent review.

  • Customers can sign up online to get matched with an agent in their area
  • Company negotiates a 2% listing fee with its realtors, which is slightly less than the industry average (2.5-3%)
  • Agents are among the top 1% in their markets based on sales volume
  • Agents are expected to offer full-service and support, including pricing guidance, photography, staging advice, MLS listing, marketing, showings, negotiations, closing coordination, etc.
  • The platform is geared primarily toward home sellers, with no dedicated sign up option or savings for buyers

Ideal Agent is available nationwide.

Best for buyers

Prevu

Learn More
On realestatewitch.com
5.0
646 reviews

Listing Fee

2%

Active Since

2017

Buyer Savings

Up to 1%

Our take

Reviews

Service details

Locations

Prevu is one of the few discount real estate brokers that offers significant savings for buyers as well as sellers. Buyers can get up to 1% back after closing, while sellers can benefit from a competitive listing fee of 2%. Prevu's agents are lauded as expert negotiators with considerable market expertise. Just be prepared to do a little more of the legwork when it comes to finding and touring homes. While some customers appreciating the independence and others cautioning that it may not be best for first-time buyers.

Read our full Prevu review.

Pros

  • 1.5% listing fee offers good savings for sellers
  • Buyers can receive up to 1% back after closing

Cons

  • High minimum fees can limit savings
  • Small agent network means you may not get an agent with local expertise

SourceAverage RatingReview Count
Google5635
Yelp4.511
Weighted Average:5646

Customers who work with Prevu are generally very pleased with the outcome.

A majority of reviews mention the savings received through Prevu's buyer rebate and the support and expertise offered by Prevu agents — with a few cautions for first-time buyers who may want a little more handholding during their home search.

Reviews from home sellers are relatively few, and don't tend to mention the savings. However, the reviews we did find from sellers were highly positive in terms of agent quality and selling outcomes.

🟢 Primary positive themes

  • Hands-on support (61% of reviews)
  • Significant savings (55%)
  • Prompt communication (40%)
  • Market expertise (35%)
  • Professional service (32%)

Read our full Prevu review.

  • Licensed real estate brokerage with full-service, salaried real estate agents
  • Buyers can receive up to 1% of the final sale price of their home as a rebate after closing (subject to a minimum commission of $10,000)
  • For sellers, Prevu charges a 2% listing fee, which is below the industry average (2.5-3%)
  • Agents are expected to offer full-service and support, including pricing advice, photography, negotiations, showing scheduling, closing coordination, etc.

Prevu is available in select markets in CA, CT, MA, NY, and PA.

Good for comparing your options

UpNest

Learn More
On realestatewitch.com
4.7
8,325 reviews

Listing Fee

Varies by agent

Active Since

2013

Buyer Savings

None

Our take

Reviews

Service details

Locations

UpNest is a legitimate agent matching service, and it can be a good way to compare real estate agents in your area. But there’s no guarantee you’ll save on real estate commissions because UpNest doesn’t negotiate a lower fee with their agents.

Read our full UpNest review.

Pros

  • Fast, easy way to compare local agents
  • Agents offer full service and support
  • Many customers report a positive experience with their agent

Cons

  • No guaranteed savings for buyers or sellers
  • Lax vetting standards compared to some competitors
  • A small percentage of complaints mention a lack of professionalism and communication

SourceAverage RatingReview Count
BBB3.420
Google4.6299
ShopperApproved4.78,006
Weighted Average:4.78,325

Reviews for UpNest are mostly positive, though not as high as some competitors. Customers frequently commend the platform's user-friendly interface and the quality of agents it connects them with. However, some users have been less-than-happy with their agents' professionalism and the lack of any real savings.

Agents themselves complain that the company doesn't follow through on its promise to connect them to qualified buyers and sellers, despite high monthly fees for using the referral platform.

🟢 Primary positive themes

  • Easy process (39% of reviews)
  • Prompt communication (24%)
  • Significant savings (24%)
  • Hands-on support (23%)
  • Market expertise (17%)

🟡 Areas for improvement:

  • Poor communication (7% of reviews)
  • Misrepresented services (5%)
  • Misleading pricing (3%)
  • Lack of integrity (3%)
  • No refunds (3%)

Read our full UpNest review.

  • Platform that matches sellers and buyers with full-service real estate agents
  • Sellers fill out an online questionnaire and receive agent matches in an online dashboard
  • Agents can offer to work for a reduced listing fee, but most charge close to market value (2.5-3%)
  • No guaranteed buyer savings, though some agents may choose to offer a modest buyer rebate
  • Services may vary by agent, but most offer the same general services as traditional real estate agents (pricing advice, photography, negotiation support, etc.

UpNest is available nationwide.

Best for 'buy and sell' savings

Redfin

Learn more
On realestatewitch.com
2.7
456 reviews

Listing Fee

1.5-2%

Active Since

2006

Buyer Savings

0.25% cash back

Our take

Reviews

Service details

Locations

Redfin is an established discount brokerage that offers impressive savings — especially if you buy and sell with a Redfin agent. While the company's standard listing fee varies from 1.5–2%, it's reduced by an additional 0.5% if you also purchase a home within a year. However, Redfin may not be the best fit for those seeking personalized, high-touch service, as some customers have noted that Redfin agents are often less involved than traditional agents.

Read our full Redfin review.

Pros

  • 1.5–2% listing fee, and up to 0.25% cash back for buyers
  • Convenient home search site with high marketing visibility for sellers
  • Significant savings if you buy and sell with Redfin

Cons

  • Agents handle more transaction volume and may be less hands-on
  • Reviews on 3rd-party sites are lower than many competitors'
  • High minimum fees in some markets

SourceAverage RatingReview Count
BBB1.151
Google4.393
Consumer Affairs1.6162
Yelp3.3150
Weighted Average:2.7456

Redfin reviews show a mix of positive and negative feedback. Home sellers appreciate the savings and often report good experiences with their agents. Home buyers appreciate Redfin’s home search app, making it easy to schedule showings and get real-time updates on properties they're interested in. However, some customers feel Redfin’s agents are more focused on closing deals quickly than on offering personalized support, especially during negotiations and inspections.*

🟢 Primary positive themes

  • Hands-on support (26% of reviews)
  • Market expertise (19%)
  • Prompt communication (18%)
  • Easy process (18%)
  • Professional service (16%)

🟡 Areas for improvement:

  • Unprofessional service (30% of reviews)
  • Poor communication (29%)
  • Misrepresented services (26%)
  • Lack of integrity (21%)
  • Poor pricing advice (13%)

Read our full Redfin review.

* Our analysis of Redfin reviews only includes reviews from 3rd-party sites — including BBB, Consumer Affairs, Google, and Yelp — but you can find additional customer reviews on Redfin.com.

  • Full-service discount brokerage
  • Sellers pay a 1.5–2% listing fee
  • Sellers who also buy a home with Redfin receive 0.5% cash back, bringing their total commission to 1–1.5%
  • Minimum fees vary by market, ranging from $2,000 to $9,000
  • Buyers are eligible for 0.25% in savings when they sign with a Redfin agent before their 2nd home tour and purchase a home within 180 days
  • Redfin agents provide free photography, a 3D walkthrough to market your home to potential buyers, and traditional services like pricing advice, negotiation support, yard signs, and open houses

Redfin is a nationwide brokerage operating in more than 100 major markets across the U.S. and Canada. In some markets, you may be paired with a Redfin partner agent.

🏆 2% commission realtors: How we chose our top picks

Clever Real Estate is the best overall choice for homeowners seeking 2% commission realtors — or even lower. Clever connects you with top-rated agents, but at a pre-negotiated listing fee of just 1.5%. That’s lower than both Ideal Agent and Prevu, with no trade-off in service quality. 

Clever also has the best ratings from its past customers. Thousands of verified reviews praise Clever for its hands-on support, professional service, and big savings — often $7,000 or more on a typical home sale. The platform is free to use, and there’s no obligation to move forward with an agent you’re matched with. Fill out this short quiz to get matched with a top-rated agent today!

Honorable mention picks

Ideal Agent is a good choice for a straightforward, guided experience. It charges a flat 2% listing fee, and customers often praise the helpful support from its concierge team and professional agents. 

However, Ideal Agent has a smaller network of agents than Clever or Redfin, which might limit your options — especially if you live in a rural or less populated area. Also, unlike Clever and Redfin, Ideal Agent doesn’t offer any savings for buyers.

Redfin is a tech-savvy option with low fees. It charges 1.5–2% to list your home and offers up to 0.25% cash back if you buy with a Redfin agent. It’s a great fit if you plan to buy and sell with Redfin in a short time. 

On the downside, some customers say Redfin’s agents are stretched thin and less involved in the process, which may lead to less personalized service. That’s important, considering 83% of sellers say they want full service and help managing all aspects of the sale.[1] The average Redfin agent closed more than 23 deals in 2024, more than triple the count from agents at other brokerages.[2]

Also, Redfin is being acquired by Rocket Companies, which could change how it operates after the deal goes through.[3]

Prevu is another solid option, especially for buyers. It offers up to 1% cash back and charges a flat 2% listing fee, but it may not offer as much hands-on guidance — especially for first-time sellers.

Finally, we think UpNest is useful to compare multiple agents side-by-side, but it doesn’t guarantee a low commission rate. Savings can vary depending on the agent proposals you receive.

Where to find 2% commission realtors near me

Looking for a 2% commission realtor near you? Select your state to find a roundup of the best discount brokers in your area, including national and local options.

What is a 2% real estate commission?

FeeRate
Listing agent2%
Buyer's agent3%
Total commission5%
Show more

Generally, a 2% real estate commission is a discounted listing fee. If you're the seller, you'll pay your agent a 2% listing fee instead of the typical 2.5–3% charged by most listing agents nationwide.  

However, you may still need to cover the buyer's agent commission, which typically ranges from 2.5% to 3%. Who pays this fee is negotiable between the buyer and seller, but the seller usually ends up covering the cost. This would bring your total real estate commission to 4.5–5%.

While the percentage difference may seem small, it can result in significant savings. For instance, on a $500,000 home sale, you could save around $5,000.

What's the average realtor commission in my state?

According to a realtor commission study by Clever Real Estate, sellers pay about 5.32% of the home's sale price on realtor fees, 2.74% going to the seller's agent and 2.58% going to the buyer's agent. 

However, realtor commission rates can vary widely across the US. Find your state in the table below to learn what realtors typically charge in your area.

StateTotal commissionBuyer commissionSeller commission
Alabama5.31%2.50%2.81%
Alaska*5.04%2.47%2.57%
Arizona5.40%2.62%2.78%
Arkansas*5.30%2.55%2.75%
California4.99%2.45%2.54%
Colorado5.29%2.62% 2.67%
Connecticut*5.25%2.57%2.68%
Delaware*5.30%2.55%2.75%
Florida5.05%2.42%2.63%
Georgia5.62%2.71%2.91%
Hawaii*5.04%2.47%2.57%
Idaho*4.68%2.30%2.38%
Illinois5.07%2.43%    2.64%
Indiana5.31%2.50%2.81%
Iowa*5.51%2.60%     2.91%
Kansas*5.51%2.60%  2.91%
Kentucky*5.30%2.55%   2.75%
Louisiana*5.30%2.55% 2.75%
Maine*5.25%2.57%  2.68%
Maryland5.30%2.55%2.75%
Massachusetts*4.47%2.03%2.44%
Michigan5.86%2.93%  2.93%
Minnesota5.77%2.62%     3.15%
Mississippi*5.30%2.55%2.75%
Missouri5.73%2.76% 2.97%
Montana*4.68%2.30% 2.38%
Nebraska*5.51%2.60%2.91%
Nevada*3.51%1.66%1.85%
New Hampshire*5.25%2.57%2.68%
New Jersey5.07%2.52%2.55%
New Mexico*5.68%2.83%2.85%
New York5.36%2.64%2.72%
North Carolina5.47%2.57%2.90%
North Dakota*5.51%2.60%2.91%
Ohio5.60%2.68%2.92%
Oklahoma*5.68%2.83%2.85%
Oregon5.00%2.42%2.58%
Pennsylvania*5.35%2.60%2.75%

Rhode Island*
5.25%2.57%2.68%
South Carolina5.36%2.61%2.75%
South Dakota*5.51%2.60%2.91%
Tennessee5.54%2.63%2.91%
Texas5.76%2.89%2.87%
Utah*4.68%2.30%2.38%
Vermont*5.25%2.57%2.68%
Virginia5.19%2.57%2.62%
Washington5.18%2.56%2.62%
Washington, D.C.4.82%2.29%2.53%
West Virginia*5.30%2.55%2.75%
Wisconsin5.78%2.47%3.31%
Wyoming*4.68%2.30%2.38%
Total Average5.32%2.58%2.74%
Show more
*Due to insufficient data, commission rates in these states were inferred from regional averages.

How much can I save with a 2% commission? 

The difference between a 2% and 3% listing commission might sound minor, but the savings add up!

To see how much you can save on real estate fees at various commission rates, enter your home’s estimated value into the real estate commission calculator below and adjust the commission percentages.

Note: Listing fees don't include the buyer's agent commission, which is negotiable between the parties. Under the recent NAR settlement, the buyer sets this fee with their agent before viewing homes, though they may still try to negotiate for the seller to cover it.[4] If the seller agrees to pay, the commission typically ranges from 2% to 3% of the home's final sale price.

Can I pay a 2% total real estate commission?

While you can get a 2% rate for listing agents, securing a total 2% commission is trickier, even after the recent NAR settlement, which shifted the responsibility of setting the buyer's agent fee to the buyer. Very few realtors and brokerages offer a flat 2% real estate commission because the only ways to do so are by:

  • Eliminating the 2.5–3% buyer’s agent fee entirely, by either finding an unrepresented buyer (which is rare) or negotiating for the buyer to pay their own agent;
  • Using dual agency, where the same agent represents both the buyer and seller.

Both of these approaches come with risks.

Under the recent NAR settlement, buyers now set the buyer’s agent commission rate and sign an agreement with their agent before even viewing homes. However, sellers still cover the buyer’s agent fee in many markets through concessions.

If a seller is unwilling to negotiate or refuses to pay the buyer’s agent commission, it could lead to difficulties in securing offers or closing deals, as many buyers aren't prepared to cover this fee out of pocket.

"Agents are not going to work for free, says Kristyn Grewell, a real estate professional based in Edmond, OK. In the U.S., buyers in most markets have no expectation of having to pay a commission to an agent. Offering none is not going to get your house shown.

"I've tried to show properties where a seller wasn't open to paying a [buyer's agent] commission, continues Grewell, and I've had to tell the buyers, 'This may be the house for you, but they don't want to work with an agent.' Rather than having to come up with their realtor's commission out of pocket when they're already maxed out with the down payment and closing costs, the buyer will say, 'Oh, we'll just skip that one.'"

Dual agency, where one agent represents both the buyer and seller in a transaction, is risky because it inherently creates a conflict of interest. The agent is tasked with serving the best interests of both parties, which can lead to compromises that may not fully benefit either side. [5]

This lack of dedicated representation means the seller might not secure the highest possible price, and the buyer might not negotiate the best terms for themselves. That's why dual agency is actually illegal in a handful of states.

What services are included for a 2% real estate commission?

Some real estate agents offer limited service for a lower commission. However, many realtors work for a 2% real estate commission (or less) and offer the same service as a full-commission agent, including:

  • Setting a listing price for your home 
  • Getting your home ready for the market
  • Listing and marketing your house to potential buyers
  • Evaluating offers
  • Negotiating with the buyer’s agent
  • Completing paperwork and close

One of the best ways to find a full-service agent for less is through an agent matching service like Clever Real Estate or Ideal Agent. As opposed to a typical brokerages, which matches clients with in-house agents who work on staff, agent matching services negotiate commission savings with top local realtors from around the country.

Agents agree to provide a full-service experience at a lower rate to clients referred through these networks. In exchange, they get a steady stream of referrals to boost their business.

Why would a realtor accept 2%?

Real estate transactions require significant paperwork, specialized knowledge, and effort. However, even an experienced agent may benefit from a lower commission rate. The truth is that many agents are open to negotiating — especially when the deal offers other benefits that justify a lower rate.

Here are seven reasons real estate agents may agree to a lower agent’s commission.

1. Attracting new clients

Offering a lower commission can give agents a competitive edge, especially in markets with many active realtors. While they may earn less on this sale, it can lead to future referrals, positive reviews, and repeat business. And since many listing agents already charge 2–3%, a 2% fee may not be a huge drop.

2. New to real estate or the area

Agents who are just starting out — or new to a particular market — may offer discounted rates to build up their client base and reputation. However, it's wise to negotiate with a seasoned agent or use a discount brokerage to get better value for the reduced fee.

For sellers, this can be a win-win if the agent is motivated and responsive. Still, it’s wise to weigh the trade-off between price and experience.

3. Offering limited services

Some agents offer à la carte pricing with fewer services. For example, they might skip open houses, staging advice, or professional photography. You save on fees, but you may need to handle more of the work yourself. If you're confident managing some parts of the sale process, this can be a smart way to reduce your overall costs.

4. Confident in a quick sale

Move-in ready homes or properties in prime locations usually sell faster with less effort. Agents may be more willing to accept a lower commission for such properties, as the sale is simpler, takes up less time, and gets paid more quickly.

However, this strategy works best in seller-friendly markets. In slower or more balanced markets, agents may not be as open to fee reductions, since selling takes more time and effort.

5. High listing price

Agents are often open to reducing their commission for higher-priced homes. For instance, a 2% commission on a $1 million sale is still $20,000, while the same rate on a $300,000 sale is just $6,000. That’s why agents are often more flexible on commission rates for luxury or high-end properties. They may be more willing to negotiate because they still earn a solid return.

6. Multiple transactions

Agents may agree to a lower commission if you’re working on multiple deals, such as selling your current home and buying a new one, or an investor handling several transactions. The promise of repeat business or multiple commissions can justify a discount on one sale and give you leverage in negotiations.

7. Low inventory, but high competition

Agents might be more flexible on commission rates in markets with low inventory but plenty of competition among agents. Getting a listing — especially in a low-inventory market — helps them stay active, market themselves, and generate buyer leads for future deals. It’s worth the commission cut if it keeps their pipeline full.

How to choose a 2% commission agent

You can find low commission agents by using a free agent matching service. Many of these services quickly connect you with multiple agents, making it easy to compare your options. They also typically vet realtors, which can help ensure you get a high-quality agent, even at a discount.

It's important to pick a reputable 2% brokerage, since some companies create savings in ways that could mean trade-offs for you. For example, you may not receive in-person support or be shuffled between a team of agents and support staff.

After reading reviews and narrowing down your list of brokerages, interview at least 2–3 agents to find the best realtor for you.

👉 LEARN: How to Choose a Realtor When Selling | How to Choose a Realtor for Buying

Bottom line

Paying 5–6% in realtor fees is no longer the norm in 2025. Many sellers save thousands by working with 2% commission realtors — or even less. The key is finding a trustworthy agent who offers full service at a lower cost.

Clever Real Estate is the best overall choice, offering a 1.5% listing fee, top-rated agents from major brokerages, and the strongest customer satisfaction scores. Other options like Ideal Agent, Prevu, and Redfin can also offer good value, depending on your goals — but each comes with trade-offs regarding agent selection, buyer savings, or service quality.

Ready to find an agent? Compare top-producing agents in your zip code from discount brands and top brokerages like Century 21 and RE/MAX.

Methodology

To formulate our discount broker rankings, we evaluate each company based on the following criteria: 

  • Pricing: We assess each company’s fee structure and cross-reference it with the traditional listing fee of 3% to determine who is offering (a) the best overall savings and (b) the fewest unfavorable pricing terms, like high minimums, nonrefundable upfront fees, or other hidden costs.
  • Service level: We only include and rate full-service discount real estate brokers, which we think are the best option for most home sellers. These companies offer the same key services you’d expect from a traditional realtor, including in-person representation and end-to-end support.
  • Agent selection: We factor in agent selection, including whether customers are automatically assigned to an agent or have a choice in who they work with. We also look at the standards to which a company holds its agents, including required years or experience or minimum closed deals.
  • Customer reviews: We evaluate all verifiable customer reviews for each company. We consider the total review counts, average customer ratings, and key positive and negative themes identified by our AI sentiment analysis tool.

We regularly refresh the data on our pages as our primary sources update.

✍️ Editor’s note: Limited or missing data doesn’t disqualify a real estate company from our list, but it does lower the company’s ranking. We base our rankings on objective measurements, and we can only measure what we can see. We regularly try to find missing data to update our rankings accordingly.

Related reading

The Best Discount Real Estate Broker for Every Budget: Are discount brokers that offer huge discounts too good to be true, or is there some truth to their claims? Read on for the full story and look at our top recommendations in-depth.

What Companies Offer the Lowest Real Estate Commission Fees? It can be hard to keep track of all the different rates offered by various brokerages, but our definitive guide discusses which companies charge the lowest commissions.

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