HomeLight and UpNest are both free, nationwide agent matching services. They connect home buyers and sellers with reputable real estate agents from top brokerages.
HomeLight is one of the largest agent matching services in the US. It has an impressive number of agents in its network, and it offers solid customer service. UpNest also has a large agent network, and it aims to offer lower real estate commission fees by having agents bid for your business.
Editor's take: Clever is the better choice
HomeLight, UpNest, and Clever Real Estate are all reputable agent matching platforms. You can try all three for free with no obligation. But ultimately, we think Clever has more to offer.
With HomeLight, you get agent matches without any savings. UpNest sometimes drives down rates through competition, but there's no guarantee that you'll actually pay a lower real estate commission. Clever, on the other hand, always offers the same low rate.
Clever sellers pay a 1.5% listing fee compared to the typical 2.5–3%. In most states, Clever buyers also get cash back after closing.
What is HomeLight?
Pros
- HomeLight's agent matching service is free.
- The company has positive customer ratings.
- It has a massive nationwide network of top agents.
Cons
- HomeLight doesn't save you money on commission fees.
- It doesn’t have a cash-back guarantee.
HomeLight is a free platform that matches buyers and sellers with real estate agents in their area. As one of the largest services available, HomeLight might be able to match you with a good agent in small or rural markets where other services can't.
But HomeLight won’t save you money on realtor fees. Unlike some competitors, HomeLight doesn't offer lower realtor commission. You’ll likely pay the standard 2.5–3% commission fee, compared to 2–2.5% with UpNest or 1.5% with Clever.
What is UpNest?
Pros
- UpNest's agent matching service is free.
- The company aims to drive down realtor fees through agent competition.
- It offers a buyer rebate in some states.
Cons
- UpNest might not save you money.
- It doesn’t have a cash-back guarantee.
UpNest is a free service that matches buyers and sellers with local real estate agents. Agents submit proposals, and you choose the best one for your situation.
UpNest claims to drive down cost through competition, but its business model doesn't guarantee savings. Agent listing fees on UpNest are usually 2–2.5% compared to the typical 2.5–3%.
HomeLight vs. UpNest: Detailed breakdown
UpNest offers minimal savings, HomeLight charges full price
The biggest difference between HomeLight and UpNest is potential savings. UpNest incentivizes agents to offer you a discount, but HomeLight charges full price.
While UpNest doesn't guarantee savings, its agents' proposals are typically 0.5% lower than average rates.
HomeLight doesn't offer any savings on real estate commission fees. You could pay thousands more for an agent through HomeLight than you'd pay for that same agent on UpNest or another agent matching platform.
HomeLight offers double the number of agent matches
Both HomeLight and UpNest have nationwide networks with thousands of real estate agents. But HomeLight offers double the number of agent matches, so it could be the better choice for finding the right agent.
Both companies have good customer satisfaction
HomeLight has a 4.5/5 rating across 911 customer reviews, and UpNest has a 4.6/5 rating across 6,342 reviews. UpNest has a lot more reviews, but that's probably because it's been around longer.
Most HomeLight reviewers had great experiences with top agents. The few negative reviews mention unprofessional agents. Make sure you research the agents you're matched with before choosing one.
Happy UpNest customers praise its agents’ professionalism. A few negative reviews note that the company can be slow to honor advertised specials, such as cash back after closing.
Bottom line: Should I use HomeLight or UpNest?
While Homelight, UpNest, and Clever are all solid agent matching services, we recommend starting with Clever.
These platforms have similar networks. But with Clever, you can access the same top agents and get guaranteed savings.
FAQ
Is UpNest a legitimate company?
Yes, UpNest is a legit company. It opened in 2013 and was acquired by Move, Inc. in 2022.
Is HomeLight a legitimate company?
Yes, HomeLight is a legit real estate platform based in San Francisco.
What is an alternative to UpNest?
Clever is a great alternative to UpNest. It can connect you with the same agents and offer guaranteed savings.
Further reading
Clever Real Estate Reviews: Clever is a free, nationwide service that matches you with realtors from top brokerages in your area. Learn more about what real buyers and sellers think about Clever Real Estate.
HomeLight Reviews: Why HomeLight Isn't Really Worth It: HomeLight offers a free service that connects buyers and sellers with a local realtor. But is it the best agent matching service out there?
UpNest Reviews: UpNest matches you with a local real estate agent, but it doesn't offer great discounts. Learn what customers are saying about UpNest.
The Best Discount Real Estate Brokers for Every Budget: Using a discount real estate broker is a great way to save money when you sell. But make sure you don't sacrifice quality and service. Read this guide to learn which companies offer great rates AND stellar service.