BREAKING NEWS: Post the NAR Settlement, Virginia discount real estate brokers can save you almost the entire 6% commission. That translates to saving up to $26,880 in commission on an average $448,000 Virginia home.
Whether you’re selling a house in Norfolk to Harrisonburg, the best discount real estate brokers in Virginia 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 $24,211 on an average Virginia home.
Rankings: Top 5 Virginia Discount Real Estate Brokers
We’ve listed the top 5 discount real estate brokers in the Old Dominion State based on how much you can save on an average $448,000 home
| Rank | Discount Real Estate Broker / Company | Listing Fee | Max Savings | 100% Online | 5-Star Reviews* | Broad Coverage | Mobile App |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Houzeo | $399 Flat Fee | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 2. | ListingSpark | $1,499 - $2,999 | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| 3. | Equity First Realty | 2.5% Commission | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| 4. | Ideal Agent | 2% Commission | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 5. | Redfin | 1% of the sale price | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
Types of Real Estate Discount Brokers in Virginia
There are two types of Virginia 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 Virginia 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 Virginia
1. Houzeo.com: Max Savings, No Hidden Fees
#1 Discount Real Estate Service
Listing Fee: $399+$350 at closing4.9/5
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 Virginia’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. ListingSpark: Flat Fee, Full Service
LOCAL EXPERT
Listing Fee: Starting at $29954.6/5
ListingSpark is a renowned flat fee discount brokerage in the US. It offers 2 listing packages:
- Spark Plan – $2,995: This includes paperwork assistance and syndicated house listing on major real estate websites. You receive a Supra digital lockbox, professional photographs, escrow services, and a “For Sale” sign.
- Premium Plan – $3,999: This includes all the features of the Spark plan. You also get pricing support, open house signage, e-flyer blasts, and agent-on-demand support.
👉 Our Take: ListingSpark offers essential services for selling your home. However, their basic package may have hidden costs, such as a $975 fee for agent support, which can increase the total expense.
ListingSpark offers certain advantages:
- Quick Listing: It takes 20 minutes to fill out the details on the ListingSpark website. The listing will go live within 24 hours after the documentation is completed.
- Add-on Features: They offer benefits like professional photographs, a lock box, a yard sign, title insurance, and escrow services.
- Free Tools: ListingSpark also offers multiple tools such as comparative market analysis, and closing cost calculator.
ListingSpark offers certain disadvantages:
- Limited Coverage: ListingSpark offers services in only 3 regions: Texas, Atlanta, and Nashville.
- Non-Refundable Fees: ListingSpark charges an upfront fee of $395 and $995 for Spark and Premium plans respectively. These fees are non-refundable upon cancellation.
- Lack of Clarity: Key details such as listing duration, photo limits, and the number of permitted changes are not readily available on the ListingSpark website.
ListingSpark has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Google.
»Listing Spark Reviews: Does Listing Spark services provide real savings? Read more to find out.
ListingSpark was established in January 2013. It is headquartered in Austin and serves only 16 cities in Texas.
ListingSpark does not charge a commission on the home value. Instead, it levies a one-time fee against the services offered.
Reviews: 3 Best Fixed Percent Discount Brokers in Virginia
3. Equity First Realty
GREAT SAVINGS
Listing Fee: 0%4.3/5
Equity First Realty is a full-service discount realty with more than 20 years of market experience. They offer the following programs for home sellers and buyers:
- 0% Listing Fee: Sellers who engage Equity First Realty to buy and sell their homes will not be charged a listing fee.
- 3% Seller Cash Back Rebate: Home buyers who list their property with Equity First Realty can receive a 3% cash back rebate at closing. It can be used for paying the closing costs.
👉 Our Take: Equity First Realty offers a 0% listing service, with the condition that clients both buy and sell properties through them. The company has not disclosed the full terms and conditions of this offer.
Equity First Realty has certain advantages:
- 0% Listing Fee: You do not pay a listing fee if you sell and buy a house with them.
- Home Value Calculator: Equity First Realty’s House Worth Calculator allows you to estimate your home’s current market value.
- Local Expertise: The team has over 20 years of experience in Virginia real estate markets.
Equity First Realty has certain drawbacks:
- Lack of Detailed Information: Their website provides limited information about the terms and conditions of their 0% listing services.
- Program Restrictions: You have to use both their buying and selling services to get the benefits.
- Regional Focus: Equity First Realty operates only in Virginia.
Equity First Realty has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Google.
Equity First Realty was established by Marcus Rice. It works extensively to help buyers and sellers meet their real estate goals.
You will receive hand-holding assistance from its agents throughout your home-selling process. However, clarify the home buying and home selling terms and conditions before signing up for them.
4. Ideal Agent
Agent Matching Service
Listing Fee: 2% of Sale Price5/5
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.
5. Redfin: 1% Listing Fee, Statewide Coverage
Best-In-Class Agents
Listing Fee: 1% of Sale Price3.4/5
Redfin is the largest discount real estate company. Its premier agents, with years of experience, help you buy and sell high-end homes.
- Listing Price: Redfin charges a 1% listing fee if you want to sell a house and buy your next one with them. It charges a 1.5% listing fee if you decide to just sell your house with Redfin.
👉Our Take: Redfin is a technology-based platform. You can expect transparency and an accurately managed database. However, you may not get complete attention due to their high customer volume.
» Is Redfin Legit? Check the legitimacy of Redfin’s discount broker services
Redfin offers:
- Competitive Pricing: You pay a listing fee of 1% if you decide to sell and buy with Redfin.
- Updated Technology: Redfin provides a mobile app, 3D walkthrough, relevant filters, etc. This makes the real estate transaction seamless.
- National Presence: Redfin covers 80+ markets in the US.
» Redfin Pros and Cons: Read about the advantages and drawbacks of Redfin services.
The disadvantages of using Redfin are:
- Pricing Inaccuracy: Many sellers have complained about certain factors like, lot area, a gated compound, or a city location not getting considered during valuation.
- Long Time for Listing: As per Redfin’s agreement, it takes almost 15-18 days to verify the seller’s property and list their house.
- Lack of Customer Service: There has been negative feedback about lack of personal attention by Redfin salaried agents.
Redfin has an average rating of 3.4 out of 5 stars on Yelp and average 3.7 out of 5 stars on Google.
» Redfin Reviews: The reality of 1% fees, pros, cons, and alternatives!
Redfin, founded in Seattle in 2002 by Mr. David Eraker, covers 80+ markets in the US. It provides an elaborate listing agreement with a marketing plan for your home.
However, this agreement specifies a long 18-day timeframe for listing your property on the MLS. Additionally, some customers have expressed concerns about the non-availability and unprofessionalism of their agents.
Discount Real Estate Brokers Virginia: How Much Will You Save?💲
Virginia 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 $26,880 to sell an average $448,000 house in the Old Dominion State. But, if you choose a flat-rate broker company, you save thousands. With Houzeo’s Gold plan, you only pay $2,669 and save $24,211!
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 Virginia?
Here’s a list of the best discount Realtors in the most popular cities of the Old Dominion State:
| Northern Virginia | Discount Real Estate Brokers in Northern Virginia, VA |
| Chesapeake, VA | Discount Real Estate Brokers in Chesapeake, VA |
| Haymarket, VA | Discount Real Estate Brokers in Haymarket, VA |
| Richmond, VA | Discount Realtors in Richmond, VA |
Discount Realtors in Virginia: Pros and Cons
Even though cheap Realtors in Virginia 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 Virginia than a 6% Realtor. Even if you only want to list your Virginia 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 Virginia 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 Virginia 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 VA.
- Unreliable Service Quality: Discounted real estate brokers in Virginia 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 VA 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 Virginia
Here are some options if you do not want to opt for a discount Realtor in Virginia:
- 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 Virginia will help you list on the MLS and increase exposure.
- Sell Your House to Cash Buyers: Almost all cash buyers in Virginia scour the MLS for Virginia 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 Virginia. You’ll end up paying a full 5% to 6% commission. That’s $24,192 on a $403,200 home gone!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the best discount real estate brokers in Virginia?
Houzeo.com and ListingSpark are the top discount real estate brokers in Virginia. Both provide an incredible combination of customer service and technology. However, Equity First Realty has only 10 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 Virginia?
On average, traditional agents in Virginia charge 5% to 6% of the sale price as commission. On the other hand, discount real estate brokerage firms in Virginia charge 1% to 3%.
How do I find a discount broker near me in Virginia?
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 Virginia?
Yes, you can! Infact, post the NAR Settlement, you can now also negotiate buyer’s agent commissions.
