✏️ Editor’s Note: Realtor Associations, agents, and MLS’ have started implementing changes related to the NAR’s $418 million settlement. While home-sellers will likely save thousands in commission, compliance and litigation risks have significantly increased for sellers throughout the nation. Learn how NAR’s settlement affects home sellers.
89% of buyers used real estate agents or brokers to buy homes. Additionally, 85% of sellers believe agents can secure a higher sale price for their homes. This highlights the value of professional help, but these services come with a steep cost.
Real estate companies charge a 5-6% commission on the sale price, which can amount to $24,000 for a $400,000 home. With such hefty fees, these companies must provide value that justifies the cost.
People rely on real estate companies for their market knowledge, negotiation skills, and ability to handle complex paperwork. Whether you’re considering a full-service brokerage or a tech-driven platform, here are our top picks in the Lone Star State.
Top 6 Virginia Real Estate Companies:
-
For Home Sellers
- Houzeo: Best Technology
- RE/MAX: Expert Assistance
- Century 21: Best for Marketing Properties
-
For Home Buyers
- Coldwell Banker Realty: Best for Local Market
- Berkshire Hathaway: Best for First Time Buyers
- Homes.com: Best for Commercial Properties
3 Best Real Estate Companies for Home Sellers in Virginia
Here are the top 3 real estate companies in Virginia that help sellers maximize their savings.
1. Houzeo
#1 Flat Fee MLS Service
Listing Fee: $3994.9/5
Houzeo is a high-tech platform with easy listing, fast changes, and online showings and offers.
You can choose from 4 Flat Fee MLS packages:
- Bronze Package – $399+$350 at Close: This package offers a Houzeo listing only for 6 months with 24 photos.
- Silver Package – $399+0.5% at Close: This offers maximum photo upload and provides you with seller disclosures.
- Gold Package—$429+0.5 % at Close: This is Houzeo’s signature MLS package and includes all the technology Houzeo is known for, such as Houzeo Showings, Houzeo Offers, and DigiTransact.
- Platinum Package – $449+1% at Close: It includes the assistance of a licensed broker to help you with negotiations, seller disclosures, and closing.
👉 Our Take: We recommend the GOLD plan. You’ll have access to Houzeo tech, making managing showings and offer negotiations easy! Before you list, confirm all prices on your particular state’s pricing page.
» Houzeo Reviews: Find out why 10,000+ Americans love Houzeo.
Houzeo is America’s #1 Flat Fee MLS service because of 5 reasons:
- Max Exposure: Houzeo’s listing packages get your home on Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, Redfin, and 100s of other real estate websites.
- 5-star Customer Service: Houzeo has a fully staffed customer service desk available 6 days a week. Chats and emails are open 7 days a week.
- 100% Online: Houzeo is a high-tech platform with easy listing, fast changes, online showings, and online offers. Its powerful house search app makes your home visible to potential buyers on the go.
- No Hidden Fees: All fees are disclosed upfront, so there are no Houzeo hidden fees. You get to bypass the traditional listing agent commission.
- Free Home Value Estimator: Now, you can get a free home value estimate within 30 seconds. It helps you set a listing price.
There are no dealbreakers with Houzeo.
» Is Houzeo Legit? Houzeo addresses all Houzeo complaints from home sellers.
Houzeo is rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by thousands of home sellers on Google & Trustpilot.
» Houzeo Reviews: Houzeo is rated “Excellent“ by 10,020+ home sellers.
Houzeo is Virginia’s #1 real estate company. It offers maximum savings, excellent customer support, and advanced technology.
Houzeo also provides affordable listing packages to Virginia home sellers. You can list on MLS through Houzeo and save thousands in commissions while reaching a wide buyer audience.
2. RE/MAX
GLOBAL REAL ESTATE BRAND
Professional Agents1.1/5
RE/MAX is a network of franchised brokerages that are independently owned and operated. It has a global footprint with a presence in over 110 countries.
- Traditional Agents – 5% to 6% Commission: RE/MAX is a traditional brokerage. Normally, traditional agents charge an average commission of 5%-6% as they guide and assist you through the entire selling process.
👉 Our Take: RE/MAX is a well-known real estate brokerage. However, each office is independently owned and operated, so the experience and the quality of service may vary by office.
Key features of RE/MAX are:
- Personal Agent: RE/MAX agents guide you throughout your entire selling process and keep you updated on its progress.
- Pricing Your Home: Agents at RE/MAX will conduct an in-depth evaluation and a CMA of your property to price your home competitively.
- Extensive Marketing: Agents at RE/MAX use cutting-edge tools and implement multiple marketing strategies to ensure maximum exposure to your property.
The major dealbreaker of RE/MAX is
- Poor Customer Reviews: RE/MAX has multiple customer complaints regarding timeline lapses and unresponsive customer service.
RE/MAX has a rating of 1.1 out of 5 on Consumer Affairs.
RE/MAX LLC is part of RE/MAX Holdings and has more than 135,000 agents in over 100 countries. It is known for its large network and expert seller assistance.
RE/MAX has a high market share in residential and commercial real estate. Clients also have access to market data and valuation tools and a user-friendly search platform.
3. Century 21
Brand Recognition
3% - 6% Commission1/5
Century 21 is one of the world’s largest real estate brokerage firms. It operates in every U.S. State and 82 other countries.
The company does not disclose its price on its website. This means you might end up paying the traditional 3% to 6% commission.
👉 Our Take: Century 21 could be a good option for first-time home sellers who do not mind paying high commissions. Along with listing, you will get assistance for contract reviews, offer management, and closing.
Here are some advantages of choosing Century 21:
- Global Coverage: Century 21 operates in every U.S. State and 82 other countries.
- Market Exposure: It has good brand recognition and over 14,000 independent franchises with over 140,000 real estate agents worldwide.
- Best for First-Time Home Sellers: Home sellers get access to contract reviews, handle their listing, offer management, and closing.
Here are some disadvantages of choosing Century 21:
- No Discounts: The agent’s fees for Century 21 are usually high. They do not offer any discounts.
- Delayed Services: Previous customers have complained that the agents were not helpful and that it delayed the process.
Century 21 has a rating of 1 out of 5 stars from 100+ reviews on Consumer Affairs.
Century 21 is one of the most popular real estate companies based in New Jersey. Founded in 1971, it operates in over 80 countries with a team of more than 140,000 agents.
Additionally, Century 21 has an online platform for property searches, virtual tours, and market analysis tools. However, as a large franchise, the quality of service can vary between individual offices and agents.
Best Real Estate Companies for Home Buyers in Virginia
Here are the top home-buying companies in Virginia to help you find your dream home.
1. Coldwell Banker Realty
MOST SUCCESSFUL INVESTORS
Based in New Jersey4.9/5
Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC is an American full-service real estate brokerage.
- No Service Fee: As a buyer, you do not have to pay any fee to avail services of Coldwell Banker.
👉 Our Take: Coldwell Banker is great for buyers because of its long-standing experience and wide property selection. It is especially helpful for those looking to invest in popular areas or unique properties.
Key features of Coldwell Banker include:
- Experts in Negotiations: Coldwell Banker’s agents are skilled and have considerable experience in negotiating the best deal for you.
- Lender Assistance: It helps you to find a lender for pre-qualification according to your affordability.
- Home Search: With MLS and other tools, agents find your ideal home based on your preferences and budget.
- Finance Assistance: It helps with down payments, mortgage prequalification, and getting your finances ready to buy a house.
- Strong Agent Network: Your agent can find many property options for you as they have good connections with other real estate agents.
Red flags of Coldwell Banker include:
- Less Flexibility in Negotiation: The company’s established policies might offer less flexibility in negotiating commission rates.
- Inconsistent Agent Quality: While many agents are experienced, the quality of service can vary depending on the specific agent assigned.
- Lapses in Transactions: Customer complaints include delays in transactions and unresponsive agents.
Coldwell Banker is rated 4.9 out of 5 stars from 200+ reviews on Trustpilot
Coldwell Banker, based in New Jersey, has been a trusted name in real estate for over a century. It offers services for various property types, from residential homes to investment properties.
Coldwell Banker offers market analysis tools to help clients make informed decisions. It also provides virtual tours and detailed online listings. However, their extensive network can sometimes lead to less personalized service.
2. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
💫 Luxury Listings
Based in Minneapolis, MN2.5/5
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is a real estate brokerage franchise in the US. Headquartered in Minneapolis with over 44,000 real estate agents and 900 offices, BHHS makes over $136 billion annually in residential real estate transactions.
- No Service Fee: As a buyer, you can register with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices for free of cost.
👉 Our Take: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices provides its services to all kinds of home buyers whether you are a first-time home buyer or a luxury home buyer.
» Selling a House: Things you need to know!
Key highlights of BHHS include:
- Search Tool: BHHS provides you with a search tool so you can browse through a variety of homes available in the market.
- Assistance in Paperwork: The agents handle all paperwork for you in relation to buying a house.
- Market Knowledge: BHHS agents provide practical knowledge and guidance based on years of local market expertise. With in-depth property and community information, they help you finalize your dream home.
- Mortgage Calculator: They provide a mortgage calculator by which you can figure out the monthly payments of a home mortgage loan, based on your desired home’s sale price.
- Start to Close Assistance: BHHS agents are experienced in handling all phases of the purchase process, including home inspections.
Few red flags we found about Berkshire Hathaway include:
- Inconsistent Agent Quality: Since BHHS franchises are independently owned and operated, agent experience differs from one location to another.
- Poor Reviews: Customers have complained about delayed transactions and a lack of communication from the agent’s end.
Berkshire Hathaway has a rating of 2.5 out of 5 from 60+ reviews on Best Company.
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is headquartered in Minneapolis, MN. It is known for dealing with high-end luxury properties. It also provides buyers with access to property features, and amenities to help them choose the best home.
Moreover, their email updates keep you informed about new homes available. However, the high-quality service may come with a higher commission fee.
3. Homes.com
Online Home Buying Site
Based in Virginia1.1/5
Homes.com is free to use for homebuyers and renters. However, real estate agents can pay to advertise their listings on the website.
- No Service Fee: Homes.com does not charge buyers any fee for its services.
👉 Our Take: Homes.com is a valuable resource for homebuyers and renters. The website provides extensive property listings and tools for home searches.
Here are some advantages of choosing Homes.com:
- Extensive Listings: Homes.com aggregates listings from a various sources. This gives users access to a wide range of properties.
- Snap and Search Feature: It allows you to take snapshots of the home you like. Later, the app will match the snapshot with similar homes in your area.
- Advanced Search Filters: You can filter your search results based on various options, such as price, location, features, and amenities.
- Saved Searches: You can save your searches and receive email alerts when new listings that meet your criteria are added to the website.
- User-friendly Interface: The website is easy to use and navigate, even for first-time homebuyers.
Here are some red flags of Homes.com:
- Sells Leads: Homes.com sells home buyer and seller contact info to real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and lenders.
- Listing Accuracy: Homes.com aggregates listings from multiple sources, potentially leading to inaccuracies or outdated information.
- Limited Agent’s Information: It does not provide direct contact information of listing agents. Instead, users have to submit a contact form through the website.
Homes.com has a rating of 1.6 out of 5 stars from 100+ users on Trustpilot.
Homes.com was founded in 1999 and headquartered in Richmond, Virginia. It also covers all the 51 states of the U.S.
Homes.com offers a mortgage calculator, advanced search filters, and save search features that attract a large number of homebuyers. Additionally, its partnerships with local MLS organizations increase the value of its listings.
Best Real Estate Companies to Work for in Virginia
When you choose a real estate company to work for in Virginia, it’s important to consider how the commission is split. Most real estate agents get paid a commission which is then divided between the agent and the brokerage.
For example, if you sell a $300,000 home with a 6% commission split equally between buyer and seller agents, you’d get 3% or $9,000. With a 60/40 split, you’d receive $5,400 before taxes. Some brokerages now offer salaries and benefits, so it’s worth exploring various options.
Here’s a comparison of top real estate brokerages in Virginia:
| Brokerage | Commission Split | Best For |
| Keller Williams | 70/30 | Agents seeking higher commissions and more educational resources. |
| RE/MAX | 95/5, 80/20, 70/30, 60/40 (capping system) | Agents who want customized commission splits and desk fees. |
| Century 21 | 50/50, 70/30 + 8% franchise fee (capping system) | Agents who want brokerage brand recognition. |
| Coldwell Banker | 50/50, 60/40, 70/30 (capping system) | Agents who need marketing, lead generation, and other tools. |
| Compass | 50/50 | Agents who want access to a wide range of online resources and tools. |
What to Consider When Choosing a Real Estate Brokerage to Work For?
- Franchise vs. Independent Choices: Franchises like RE/MAX and Keller Williams offer a nationwide presence and provide more support and training. Independent real estate firms offer more freedom but may have fewer resources.
- Company Reputation: Research the brokerage’s market presence and reputation. A reputable company can help with lead generation.
- Support and Resources Offered: Some brokerages provide mentorship programs and free advertising, while others offer minimal support. You can also visit company events to get a feel for the work culture.
- Scope for Specialization: Consider the brokerage’s niche and how it aligns with your interests and local opportunities in Virginia’s real estate market.
How to Choose the Best Real Estate Company in Virginia?
You can choose the best real estate companies based on these factors:
For Sellers:
- Strong Technology: A company’s website should have robust technology that can make selling a house more efficient. Also, look for features like virtual tours, professional photos, and user-friendly interfaces.
- Responsive Customer Service: Having good customer service can help you with smooth real estate transactions. Find a company that aligns with your preferences and also has helpful customer service.
- Maximum Exposure: Find a company that will give maximum exposure to your property. This could also include an MLS listing, social media advertisement, and customizable yard signs.
For Buyers:
- Property Listings: Look for a company with access to many property listings on the MLS. This way, you’ll see all the listings in the area you like.
- Buyer-Friendly Tools: Look for a company with useful online tools. It will help you compare houses, learn about neighborhoods, and also figure out how much your mortgage payment could be.
- Experienced Agents: Seek a company with agents who have experience with buyers. They should be able to guide you through every step, from looking at houses to finally buying one.
Are Real Estate Companies in Virginia Worth It?
Yes! Real estate companies in Virginia are worth it. Top companies offer advanced technology, a large network of agents, and maximum savings. This is where Houzeo stands out as a smart choice for sellers in Virginia.
Houzeo offers a flat fee listing service that saves sellers thousands of dollars in commissions. With user-friendly tools, it is ideal for homeowners looking to sell their homes quickly.
Eager to Know How Houzeo Works?
We have got you covered. Check out how you can list your property on the MLS with Houzeo.
How to List on MLS With Houzeo?
5 Easy Steps to List with Virginia’s Best Real Estate Company
» Need More Clarity? Read these exclusive Houzeo reviews and learn why it is one of the best FSBO sites in America.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best real estate companies to sell your home with in Virginia?
Houzeo is the best real estate company for home sellers in Virginia. It offers sellers maximum savings, dedicated customer support and 100% online experience. RE/MAX and Century 21 are some of the other options to sell your home.
» Best Real Estate Companies in Virginia: Find out the top companies in Virginia.
What are the best real estate companies for buyers in Virginia?
The best real estate companies for home buyers in Virginia are Coldwell Banker, Berkshire Hathaway, and Homes.com. They offer buyers various services and tools such as property comparisons, virtual showings, and mortgage calculators.
What is the best luxury real estate company in Virginia?
Premier Sotheby’s International Realty is considered one of the best luxury real estate companies in Virginia. It offers services like home staging, high-resolution photography, drone footage and virtual tours.
How can I sell my property quickly in Virginia?
You should set a competitive price, enhance curb appeal, and highlight your home features effectively to sell your house fast in Virginia.
