Published
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Written by
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Edited by Josiah Wilmoth
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Reviewed by Tony Chahal
Written by Ashley Simon
Edited by Josiah Wilmoth
Reviewed by Tony Chahal
Key takeaway: Clever matches sellers and buyers with highly vetted realtors and pre-negotiates a low 1.5% listing fee, which is why it’s our top low commission real estate brokerage.
Listing Fee
Buyer Savings
Active Since
Our take
Company details
Clever Real Estate is the best option for most sellers looking to save on realtor commissions. Its 1.5% listing fee is among the lowest of any full-service, nationwide brand. You save thousands on commission while working with a top local realtor from a well-known brokerage, like RE/MAX and Keller Williams.
Read the full Clever Real Estate review.
Pros
- 1.5% listing fee is half the typical rate.
- Agents have strong sales records and great customer reviews.
- Free agent-finding platform with no obligation to sign with a realtor.
Cons
- Add-ons like drone photography and staging may cost extra.
- May not get matched with a specific realtor if they’re not in Clever’s network.
- Service that matches sellers and buyers with full-service real estate agents
- Sellers pay a pre-negotiated 1.5% listing fee (half the average rate) to their realtor after a successful home sale
- To join Clever’s network, real estate agents must be top performers in their local market, have 5+ years of experience, and demonstrate a track record of positive customer reviews
- Clever has a 5/5 rating across 3,400+ online reviews
- Accredited through the Better Business Bureau and holds an A+ rating
- Agents offer full service and support, including pricing advice, photography, MLS listing and description, negotiation support, etc.
- Eligible buyers receive $250 cash back
We gave Clever Real Estate a great score for its strict agent vetting criteria and solid customer reviews. It also stacks up well against other discount brokers regarding savings and service.
In this review, we’ll cover how much you can save with Clever, what real customers say about Clever agents, and what the process looks like for sellers and buyers. You’ll also see how Clever compares to other discount real estate brokerages.
» JUMP TO: Clever vs. alternatives | Reviews | Savings | Services | How it works | News | Bottom line
Who Clever Real Estate works best for
Clever Real Estate ultimately works best for sellers and buyers who want to save on realtor commissions without sacrificing service. It’s a great fit for:
- Sellers looking for full-service agents at lower rates. Clever pre-negotiates a 1.5% listing fee with highly vetted agents from top brokerages like Keller Williams and RE/MAX. This makes it a great option for those who want the full benefits of a traditional agent but at about half the cost.
- Buyers looking for expert support. Clever also connects buyers with experienced agents who offer full-service support throughout the buying process. Plus, eligible buyers can receive cash back after closing.
- Those seeking flexibility. Clever’s free, no-obligation agent matching service allows users to interview multiple agents and choose the best fit. If you’re unsatisfied, you can walk away anytime without being locked into a commitment.
Clever is less ideal for those selling low-value homes, such as those priced under $200,000, as Clever’s minimum listing fee ($3,000) may not offer as much savings.
Clever vs. top alternatives
| Company | Our Rating | Listing Fee | Availability | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Best overall
Clever Real Estate |
Our rating
|
1.5%
Min. $3,000
|
Nationwide
|
Find Agents |
Ideal Agent |
Our rating
|
2%
Min. $3,000
|
Nationwide
|
Learn More |
UpNest |
Our rating
|
Varies by agent
Avg. 2.2%
|
Nationwide
|
Learn More |
HomeLight |
Our rating
|
Varies (2.2% on average)
|
Nationwide
|
Learn More |
We compared Clever Real Estate to other agent matching and low commission brokerages based on agent quality, savings, and customer service.
Clever Real Estate stands out from its competitors due to its rigorous agent vetting process and commitment to high-quality service. The company ensures its partner agents meet strict performance standards, including a proven track record of successful transactions and strong customer reviews. This gives Clever an edge in offering top-notch agents from well-known brokerages.
While Ideal Agent also emphasizes agent quality, it has a smaller network, so we think Clever offers a better chance of being matched with an excellent agent in your area.
Regarding savings, Clever’s 1.5% commission rate is one of the lowest in the industry. It significantly undercuts competitors like Ideal Agent, which charges a 2% listing fee, and HomeLight, which doesn’t offer discounted fees. Its lower fee structure helps sellers retain more equity from their home sale.
Although some users might be concerned that lower fees equate to lesser service, customer feedback consistently highlights that Clever agents provide the same full-service experience as traditional agents, with dedicated support throughout the process. This combination of savings and service quality places Clever above its competition.
Ready to compare agents and save thousands on commissions? Get connected with top-rated local agents through Clever Real Estate and enjoy the benefits of expert service at a discounted rate.
Clever Real Estate reviews: What real customers say
| Review site | Rating |
|---|---|
| Better Business Bureau | 5/5 (100+ reviews) |
| 4.8/5 (300+ reviews) | |
| Trustpilot | 5/5 (3,000+ reviews) |
| Average rating | 5.0 (3,400+ reviews) |
Clever Real Estate reviews online give the company a 5/5 rating from 3,400+ reviews across Trustpilot, Google, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Clever Real Estate is also accredited by the BBB and has an A+ rating.
Customer sentiment toward Clever Real Estate is overwhelmingly positive. Numerous reviewers praise the company for its high-quality agents, significant cost savings, and streamlined process.
✅ Pros: High-quality agents and big savings
Many customers emphasize the agents’ knowledge and professionalism, attributing their excellent service to Clever’s strict vetting process. Agents are repeatedly described as diligent and attentive, helping sellers navigate the entire real estate process while offering expert advice.
Clever’s 1.5% listing fee also stands out as a major benefit, with many customers noting that they saved thousands of dollars without sacrificing service quality.
“Super easy to get started, filled out my info online and within minutes I had local realtors contacting me about our home sale. The house was listed within a few days and sold within 2 days of listing. Tiffany (our realtor) was very professional, responsive and personable. We saved thousands of dollars in commissions using Clever and would highly recommend it to anyone looking to sell their home. ” – S.B., Sept. 2024, TrustPilot, ★★★★★
Other users also reported finding and hiring an agent swiftly, with some homes selling in just days. Buyers and sellers alike appreciated the responsiveness and hands-on support of Clever’s agents, often exceeding their expectations.
“Tiffany made my sale of property go very smoothly. She went beyond Clever’s full service (with low commission) when she vacuumed my carpet, and put personal touches to the unit. Her husband, Jesse wired my ceiling smoke detectors.” – Phoebe C., Sept. 2024, TrustPilot, ★★★★★
When we interviewed Thorsteinn S. about his experience with a Clever agent in the Seattle, Washington area, he praised Clever for the quality of its agents and the savings. Thorsteinn’s agent was communicative, personable, and provided expert advice that led to his home selling in a week for about $150,000 over the asking price.
Many online reviewers echo the same sentiments and were surprised they could receive high-quality, dedicated service at a lower price.
❌ Cons: Occasional unmet expectations, service limitations
Although most reviews are highly favorable, a few customers (less than 5%) expressed dissatisfaction.
One reviewer successfully sold their house and benefited from a lower commission, but the reviewer felt they had to take charge of key aspects, such as pricing and negotiating.
“Our agent suggested listing below market value, but we went with my price instead. They also made a big deal out of items in the inspection report. After I read the report, I found a few items that were reasonable concerns and offered an equitable concession.” – Bill, March 2024, TrustPilot, ★★★
However, such experiences are rare, as most Clever’s reviews reflect strong agent performance and customer satisfaction.
Clever also responded to the review by thanking the customer for their honest feedback. They expressed disappointment that the customer’s experience with the agent didn’t meet expectations, and escalated the issue to their agent relations management team for further review.
How much can I save with Clever?
| Clever’s listing fee | 1.5% of home sale price |
| Nationwide average listing fee | 2.83% of home sale price |
| Amount saved with Clever | 1.3% of home sale price |
By using Clever Real Estate, sellers can save up to 50% on listing fees compared to traditional agents. Clever charges a pre-negotiated 1.5% listing fee, significantly lower than the nationwide average of 2.83%.
For example, a traditional 3% commission on a $300,000 home would cost $9,000, but with Clever, you’d pay only $4,500 — a savings of $4,500.
The savings get even better on higher-value homes. For example, a traditional 3% commission on a $600,000 property would cost $18,000, but with Clever, you’d pay only $9,000 — a savings of $9,000.
On average, Clever sellers save around $7,000 nationwide, while still receiving full-service support from top agents. In addition to the listing fee, sellers may need to cover the buyer’s agent commission, which is negotiable and ranges from 2-3% nationwide.
See exactly how much you could save with Clever by entering your home’s estimated sale price below.
Clever service breakdown
When you sell or buy with a Clever partner agent, you’ll get the same service and support you’d expect from a traditional agent charging full commission.
We spoke with Thorsteinn S., who sold his home with a Clever agent in the Seattle, Washington area. Thorsteinn told us that his agent provided more hands-on service and support than any realtor he’d paid 3% to before. His agent provided the following services:
- Comparative market analysis (CMA) and pricing strategy
- Connection with a pre-listing stager
- Professional photography
- Full listing on the MLS and hundreds of other real estate sites
- Showings and open houses
- Help with offers, counteroffers, and negotiations
- Contract and paperwork support
- Closing and title coordination
Thorsteinn told us that his agent’s pricing and marketing strategy were instrumental in procuring four offers just days after his home was listed on the MLS.
Marc P, a Trustpilot reviewer, was also impressed with the knowledgeable agent Clever paired him with. Despite the discounted listing fee, Marc’s realtor provided top-notch service, including professional photography, resulting in his home selling in just one day for well above the asking price.
As a buyer, you can expect to receive the following services from your Clever agent:
- Real-time MLS alerts
- On-demand house tours
- Help with offers and counteroffers
- Support during the inspection and any renegotiations
- Final walk-through and closing coordination, and more
Clever partner agents sign an agreement stipulating they must provide 100% full service.
Clever’s concierge team will check in with you and the agent continuously to ensure your agent delivers the promised service and support. Thorsteinn told us that Clever’s customer service team kept in touch with him throughout the process and that the communication was all very straightforward.
How Clever Real Estate works
For sellers
To get matched with a listing agent through Clever, you complete the following steps:
- Fill out the form: Enter your zip code on Clever’s website. Then, answer a few basic questions about your property, how many agents you want to interview, your address, estimated market value, and the best time to connect with an agent.
2. Clever concierge reaches out: You’ll get contacted to learn more about your situation, answer any questions, and provide more information about Clever’s services.
3. Agent matching begins: Clever will search through its network of 19,000 partner agents to find the best matches based on your location, needs, and agent experience.
4. Introductions: You’ll receive both an email and group text with agent introductions, including links to their brokerage, Zillow profile, and social media for easy comparison.
5. Schedule interviews: You can meet with your recommended agents and choose to interview them in person or over the phone.
6. Get started: After choosing and signing with your agent, you can start the home sale process, with Clever providing ongoing support throughout.
For buyers
Clever connects you with top agents from major brokerages like Berkshire Hathaway and Century 21. These agents are carefully vetted to ensure they have the experience and strong reviews to help you find the perfect home.
The process is simple: Clever will first ask about the type of property you’re looking for, your price range, and your timeline for purchasing.
On the next page, you’ll select the number of agents you’d like to interview and your preferred time for contact.
If you’re not already working with a mortgage lender, Clever will offer to match you with one. After you submit the form, Clever’s team will send agent introductions within two hours.
How much can buyers save with Clever?
Eligible home buyers can save with Clever Cash Back. The program offers you a gift card of up to $500 Clever connects home buyers with top agents from major brokerages. These agents are carefully vetted, ensuring they have the experience and positive reviews to help you find the right home.
With Clever’s Cash Back program, eligible buyers can get up to $500 after closing: $250 for buying, or $500 if you buy and sell with a Clever agent. This rebate is available in most states for homes priced over $50,000, though some states don’t allow commission rebates.
Clever Real Estate news and updates
Clever has made significant strides recently, with key developments in its services, partnerships, and industry recognition:
- In February 2024, Clever Real Estate launched Clever Title, a full-service title and escrow company.1
- In January 2024, Clever acquired Gravy Technologies, a startup that built a rewards platform for home buyers.2
- In October 2023, two of Clever’s executive team members received the HousingWire Insiders Award.3
- Clever launched a product for mortgage lenders called Clever Pro in July 2023.4
- In June 2023, Clever was named the number 1 real estate agency on Trustpilot.com.5
- In May 2023, Clever raised $2 million in funding and ranked #65 on Inc.’s List of Fastest-Growing Companies in the Midwest.6
Bottom line: Should I use Clever Real Estate?
Based on our research of Clever Real Estate and other popular agent matching services, we think Clever offers the best overall service for most buyers and sellers. Clever’s partner agents are consistently high quality, its savings for sellers and buyers are the best in the industry, and you can try it for free with zero obligation.
The only situation where you may want to look elsewhere is if you’re selling a house at a low price point — typically less than $200,000. At that price, a traditional, full-priced real estate agent may be able to provide a better deal given Clever’s flat $3,000 listing fee.
However, Clever is a good deal for all other sellers and buyers. You’ll get a top, full-service real estate agent and pay only a fraction of the price. In other words, you’ll save thousands of dollars for the same service as you’d get from a traditional broker.
Our advice: Start your real estate journey with Clever. You’ll have an expert in your corner from the beginning, but because Clever is free and comes with no obligation, you’ll still be able to pursue other options at any point.
FAQ
Is Clever Real Estate legitimate?
Yes, Clever Real Estate is a legitimate and well-reviewed company that makes buying and selling real estate more affordable. Clever has an average customer rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on over a thousand customer reviews. Clever is a licensed brokerage in Missouri and partners with agents all over the country from top brokerages like Keller Willams, Century 21, and Coldwell Banker.
How much can I save with Clever?
Clever sellers typically save between 40–50% on total commission fees — or $7,000 or on average — thanks to the pre-negotiated 1.5% listing fee. See how much you can save with Clever!
Is Clever Real Estate free?
Yes. As a seller or buyer, you won’t ever pay Clever a referral fee. Sellers only pay their Clever partner agent’s discounted 1.5% listing fee when their home sells. Buyers won’t pay any agent fees, because their agent’s fee is typically covered by the seller.
How does Clever make money?
Like other agent matching companies, Clever collects a small fee from its partner agents in exchange for referring new customers. This allows Clever to offer a free service for its customers.
Why do agents work with Clever for lower rates?
Most agents burn a lot of time and money trying to attract new clients. Clever’s partner agents get a steady stream of new business with zero up-front cost or effort (they pay Clever a fee only when a deal closes). The arrangement boosts their revenue, sales numbers, and visibility within their local market — and the volume allows them to lower their rates, helping sellers and buyers save money. In other words, it’s a win-win for all parties.
How good are Clever partner agents?
To be a Clever partner agent, realtors must have an active real estate license, at least five years of experience, and a proven track record of success. Clever also states on its website that it will remove agents from its network that don't provide excellent service, and its team actively reviews its partner agents’ performance on an ongoing basis.
Do Clever agents really provide full service?
Yes. All Clever’s partner agents have signed contracts that they'll provide 100% full service and support to Clever customers.
Am I obligated to use Clever Real Estate if I request an agent?
No! You can interview as many agents as you'd like through Clever. Until you've connected with an agent you like and decided to move forward, you don't sign a thing. The benefit of Clever is getting a reduced commission, whereas if you reach out directly to an agent, you'll likely pay full commission.
Related links
How to Find a Realtor: The Complete Guide: A good agent can make a big difference in how well your home sale or purchase goes — and how much you get or save for your house. Find out how to choose the right realtor for you.
Top 10 Low Commission Real Estate Agents: Low commission real estate companies can help you save thousands on your home sale. Check out our ranking of the best low commission companies, and see what options are available in your local real estate market.
The Best Discount Real Estate Brokers and Agents: Discount brokers can save you a lot of money, but some come with significant drawbacks. Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering a discount realtor.
Negotiating Realtor Fees: Tips to Lower Commission: Negotiating real estate fees centers on knowing the market and your situation and using that information while talking to multiple agents.
Methodology
The Real Estate Witch team evaluated Clever on various factors, including savings, customer service, online reviews, agent quality, and how it compares to the competition. Our mission is to empower you to decide whether Clever is right for your next real estate transaction.
We regularly update all our reviews to ensure they are accurate and relevant. We aim to help you find an agent who can get you the best possible value when you buy or sell your home.
Our low commission real estate brokerage rankings are based on three key criteria:
- Cost and savings. We compare each brokerage’s pricing model to top competitors and average prices across the U.S., including the average listing fee, minimum fees, and any buyer incentives offered.
- Customer service. We perform an in-depth analysis on each brokerage’s customer reviews across review sites. We broke down the sentiment of reviews, looking at themes around agent responsiveness, expertise, and meeting customer expectations.
- Ease of use. We evaluate how efficient it is for customers to find, compare, and select an agent through a brokerage; and we evaluate their agent network size, technical platforms, communication methods, and post-transaction support.
Disclosure
Real Estate Witch is a partner brand of Clever. However, we form our opinions based on the same facts we share with you, and we apply the same objective standards to Clever that we do to all companies we review. Our focus is to tell you who Clever is and isn’t right for.
Sources
- PR Newswire, ‘Clever Real Estate Launches Clever Title and Promotes Executive to Lead New Division’, February 16, 2024, https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/clever-real-estate-launches-clever-title-and-promotes-executive-to-lead-new-division-302063763.html ↩︎
- PR Newswire, ‘Clever Real Estate Expands Tech Footprint, Acquires Gravy Technologies’, January 8, 2024, https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/clever-real-estate-expands-tech-footprint-acquires-gravy-technologies-302027894.html ↩︎
- PR Newswire, ‘Two Clever Real Estate Leaders Honored With 2023 HousingWire Awards’, October 12, 2023, https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/two-clever-real-estate-leaders-honored-with-2023-housingwire-awards-301954442.html ↩︎
- PR Newswire, ‘Clever Real Estate Launches Clever Pro, Driving More Growth and Profitability for Mortgage Lenders’, July 25, 2023, https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/clever-real-estate-launches-clever-pro-driving-more-growth-and-profitability-for-mortgage-lenders-301885098.html ↩︎
- PR Newswire, ‘Clever Real Estate Ranked No. 1 Real Estate Agency on TrustPilot.com’, June 14, 2023, https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/clever-real-estate-ranked-no-1-real-estate-agency-on-trustpilotcom-301850201.html ↩︎
- PR Newswire, ‘Clever Real Estate Ranks No. 65 on Inc.’s List of Fastest-Growing Companies in the Midwest’, March 1, 2023, https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/clever-real-estate-ranks-no-65-on-incs-list-of-fastest-growing-companies-in-the-midwest-301759084.html ↩︎
MiaMoore says
Your comments were published 11months ago.
Has “Clever ” reviews changed ? What is their current rating .
I am a recent widow looking to sell a large home in April 2021,and honesty and trust are a must for me .
Thankyou for taking the time to get back with me.
The Real Estate Witch Team says
Thanks for commenting Mia! We’re actually in the process of updating this page now with more up-to-date reviews.
You can also find Clever’s full reviews at https://www.trustpilot.com/review/listwithclever.com, or reach out to the Clever team at https://go.realestatewitch.com/real-estate-witch-clever-flat-fee/.