BREAKING NEWS: Post the NAR Settlement, Washington discount real estate brokers can save you almost the entire 6% commission. That translates to saving up to $38,676 in commission on an average $644,600 Washington home.
Whether you’re selling a house in Seattle or Maple Valley, the best discount real estate brokers in Washington will help you save on the 3% listing agent commission. And an additional up to 2.5% to 3% on the buyer agent commission! That’s a cool $38K on an average Washington home.
Rankings: Top 5 Washington Discount Real Estate Brokers
We’ve listed the top 5 discount real estate brokers in the Evergreen State based on how much you can save on an average $644,600 home.
Rank | Discount Real Estate Broker / Company | Listing Fee | Max Savings | 100% Online | Mobile App |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1. | Houzeo.com | $399 Flat Fee | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
2. | Century 21 Northwest | $3,000 Flat Fee | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
3. | Trelora | 1% Commission | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
4. | UpNest | 4.3% Commission or As decided by the agent | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
5. | Ideal Agent | 2% Commission | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Types of Real Estate Discount Brokers in Washington
There are two types of Washington 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 Washington 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: 2 Best Flat Rate Discount Real Estate Companies in Washington
1. Houzeo.com: Max Savings, No Hidden Fees
Houzeo is a top technology-driven real estate platform. It offers 4 different packages:
- Bronze Package ($399 + $350 at Close): List your house for 6 months. You can upload 24 house photos.
- Silver Package ($399+0.5% at Close): List your home for 6 months and post maximum photos. Unlimited open houses and listing modifications are included in this package.
- Gold Package ($429+0.5% at Close): This package offers all the benefits of the Silver package, as well as licensed broker assistance, contract review, and more.
- Platinum Package ($449+1% at Close): This package offers virtual full-service support with a licensed broker. You can list for 12 months. Brokers assist you in negotiations, disclosures, and closing.
👉 Our Take: We recommend Houzeo to all home sellers. The company has an excellent customer rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars. It has extensive coverage across 47 states + DC, a feat achieved by only a handful of other services.
» Houzeo Reviews: Houzeo is 100% online. You can finish listing formalities within 60 minutes.
These are the key features that make Houzeo one of the top discount real estate brokers:
- Significant Commission Savings: You will pay just a small flat fee to list on the MLS. On average, home sellers who used Houzeo saved $12,511.
- No Hidden Fees: All costs are disclosed upfront so you don’t have to worry about hidden charges.
- Near Nationwide Coverage: Houzeo operates in 47 states and DC, with ongoing plans for expansion.
- Max Exposure: Houzeo packages give you access to renowned MLS companies.
- Advanced Technology: Eliminate the hassle of extensive paperwork. E-signature and online forms make house listing quick and easy.
- 5-star Customer Service: Dedicated customer support addresses your every concern easily.
- Mobile App: Houzeo’s mobile app lets you manage showing requests from verified buyers and buyer agents. You can either accept, reject, or reschedule showings at your convenience.
- Home Value Estimator: Houzeo’s Home Worth Estimator is online and quick to know the FMV of your home. It provides free home value estimate within 30 seconds.
There are no dealbreakers with Houzeo.
» Houzeo Reviews: Houzeo is rated “Excellent” by 10,000+ happy customers on Google Reviews and Trustpilot!
Houzeo Reviews: With over 10,000+ happy customers, Houzeo is the most trusted discount real estate broker.
Houzeo is Washington’s #1 ranked discount real estate company because sellers only have to pay a flat rate. It provides an unbeatable combination of maximum savings and 5-star customer support.
2. Century 21 Northwest
Century 21 Northwest provides discount real estate services only in Washington.
- Variable Commission: Century 21 Northwest practices a traditional brokerage model for home sellers. It offers services like open houses, professional photography, online marketing, etc. You need to negotiate with the agent to get a discounted deal.
👉 Our Take: Century 21 Northwest doesn’t have a fixed listing package like other discount brokerages. You need to consult the agent to know how much you pay to sell your house. Your service requirements may make you pay a traditional 3% commission.
Century 21 Northwest offers the following advantages:
- Comprehensive Services: Century 21 offers a complete range of services, including preparing homes for sale, marketing them effectively, and the closing process.
- Financial Calculator: They offer various tools such as a mortgage calculator, house worth calculator, amortization calculation and refinance calculator.
Century 21 Northwest has certain disadvantages:
- Traditional Commission Structures: Century 21 Northwest likely charges standard commission rates, which may not provide cost savings for sellers.
- No Mobile App: Without a mobile app, sellers and buyers must visit the office in person for documentation work, which can be inconvenient and time-consuming.
Century 21 Northwest has a rating of 4 out of 5 stars on Google.
Century 21 Northwest is a real estate company. It offers services, which includes photography, online marketing, and open house.
However, they offer limited seller services as compared to many other discount real estate agents.
Reviews: 3 Best Fixed Percent Discount Brokers in Washington
3. Trelora
Trelora 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.
Joshua Hunt established Trelora in 2011. It is headquartered in Denver, Colorado. Trelora was acquired by Houwzer, a prominent real estate firm, in December 2022.
Trelora does not assign a dedicated agent to home sellers. They connect with a different agent at every step of the process. This may lead to delays, mistakes, and miscommunication.
4. UpNest
UpNest 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.
👉 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.
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.
UpNest is a licensed agent-matching brokerage. It is headquartered in California. Move, Inc.,(Realtor.com the parent company) acquired Upnest in June 2022.
UpNest pairs you with local agents with a proven sales record. However, you may end up fixing a high commission for the agent.
5. Ideal Agent
Ideal Agent is an agent matching company. It offers a single listing package for sellers:
- 2% Commission: Ideal Agent charges a 2% commission to the listing agent, which is lower than traditional rates (typically 2.5 – 3%). On an average home price of $400,000, you will be charged $8,000.
👉 Our Take: The 2% listing fee is competitive, however, the buyer’s agent still gets a 2.5 – 3% commission, bringing the total commission to around 4.5 – 5%. The savings are notable but not as significant as flat-fee brokers.
Ideal Agent stands out with several attractive offerings:
- Top Agents: The platform only works with experienced agents from major brokerages like Keller Williams Realty and RE/MAX.
- National Network: Coverage extends across the U.S., making it a versatile option for sellers nationwide.
It’s important to be aware of these potential drawbacks:
- Limited Savings: Despite the reduced listing commission, the total commission cost isn’t drastically different from standard agents.
- Agent Pool: In less populated areas there may be fewer agents to choose from, limiting flexibility.
Ideal Agent has a rating of 5 out of 5 on Trustpilot.
» Ideal Agent Reviews: Does Ideal Agent benefit you in the 2024 market?
Steve Johnston established ldeal Agent in 2016. It is headquartered in Tampa. It offers all the traditional realtor services with a 2% commission on home sale value.
Ideal Agent lacks a modern technology system. Customers who have used their services have complained about hidden charges.
Discount Real Estate Brokers Washington: How Much Will You Save?💲
Washington 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 $38,676 to sell an average $644,600 house in the Evergreen State. But, if you choose a flat-rate broker company, you save thousands. With Houzeo’s Gold plan, you only pay $3,652 and save $35,024!
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.
How to Find Discount Real Estate Brokers Near Me in Washington?
Here’s a list of the best discount Realtors in the most popular cities of the Evergreen State:
1. Seattle, WA | Discount Real Estate Brokers in Seattle, WA |
2. Camano Island, WA | Discount Real Estate Brokers in Camano Island, WA |
Discount Realtors in Washington: Pros and Cons
Even though cheap Realtors in Washington 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 Washington than a 6% Realtor. Even if you only want to list your Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington 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 WA.
- Unreliable Service Quality: Discounted real estate brokers in Washington 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 WA 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.
Alternatives to Discount Real Estate Agents in Washington
Here are some options if you do not want to opt for a discount Realtor in Washington:
- 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 Washington will help you list on the MLS and increase exposure.
- Sell Your House to Cash Buyers: Almost all cash buyers in Washington scour the MLS for Washington 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 Washington. You’ll end up paying a full 5% to 6% commission. That’s $38,676 on a $644,600 home gone!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the best discount real estate brokers in Washington?
Houzeo.com and Century 21 Northwest are the top discount real estate brokers in Washington. Both provide an incredible combination of savings and technology. However, Century 21 Northwest has only 5 reviews while thousands of sellers have rated Houzeo as 4.9 out of 5.
» Houzeo Reviews: Find out why 15,000+ home sellers love Houzeo.
How much is the real estate agent fees in Washington?
On average, traditional agents in Washington charge 5% to 6% of the sale price as commission. On the other hand, discount real estate brokerage firms in Washington charge 1% to 3%.
How do I find a discount broker near me in Washington?
You could choose a discount broker, or list your home using Houzeo. With Houzeo, your home will be listed on the MLS within 24 to 48 hours.
Can you negotiate Realtor fees in Washington?
Yes, you can! Infact, post the NAR Settlement, you can now also negotiate buyer’s agent commissions.