You save a whopping $11,280 when selling a median-priced $376,000 home in North Carolina. But how? With a discount real estate broker in North Carolina, you can skip the hefty 3% listing agent commission. This allows you to list your home for as low as 1% or a flat fee and save thousands of dollars!
That’s not it! These brokers help you list your property on the MLS giving maximum exposure as 43% of buyers search properties online. In addition, discount brokers offer affordability with full service making them ideal for cost-conscious sellers.
Rankings: Top 5 North Carolina Discount Real Estate Brokers
As North Carolina’s real estate market continues to rebound post-Hurricane Idalia, home sellers are exploring ways to cut costs. With rising repair and insurance premiums, sellers want to retain more of their home sale profits.
One effective way to do this is to sell with a discount real estate broker in North Carolina. They offer lower commission rates and services compared to traditional Realtors. We’ve ranked the top 5 discount brokerages in the Tar Heel State for you to choose from.
| Rank | Discount Real Estate Broker / Company | Listing Fee | Max Savings | 100% Online | Mobile App |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Houzeo.com | $399 Flat Fee | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 2. | Flat Fee Realty | $139 (Varies) | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| 3. | Smart Choice Realty | $1,000 or 1% Commission | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| 4. | Ideal Agent | 2% Commission | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| 5. | Trelora | 1% Commission | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
What Are the Types of Discount Real Estate Brokers?
North Carolina sellers can choose from two main types of discount real estate brokers. Each of these cater to the unique needs of the home sellers:
- Flat Rate Discount Brokers: Also known as Flat Fee MLS companies, they charge a fixed upfront fee to list your home on the MLS. A Flat Fee MLS service costs between $399 to $4,000. These services offer maximum exposure for a low fee.
- Fixed Percentage Discount Brokers: These discount Realtors charge a fixed percentage of the home’s sale price. Typically, this percentage is lower than the traditional 3%. Depending on the broker, these rates may vary from 1% to 2.5%.
Reviews: 2 Best Flat Rate Discount Real Estate Companies in North Carolina
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 a stellar 4.9/5 customer rating. It also provides coverage in 47 states + DC, making it one of the few services with nationwide reach.
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, Houzeo home sellers save $12,231.
- 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 10,100+ happy customers on Google Reviews and Trustpilot!
Houzeo Reviews: With over 10,100+ happy customers, Houzeo is the most trusted discount real estate broker.
Houzeo is the #1 discount real estate broker in North Carolina. The company provides features like IntelliList management to simplify your listing process. Besides this, you get 5-star customer support, advanced technology, showings management, and offers all at your fingertips.
2. Flat Fee Realty: Flat Fee, Full Service
Affordable MLS Listing
Listing Fee: Starts from $1993.2/5
Flat Fee Realty provides a single MLS package, with prices varying based on the state.
- Package: In most states, the price starts at $199 + 0.25% listing broker fee at closing. The package includes a 6-month listing term with six photos. By paying an extra $50, you can add up to 25 photos.
👉 Our Take: Flat Fee Realty is affordable. However, the extra costs for upgrades and limited features may not fit all sellers’ needs. It can be a good option for land and lot owners.
Based on our research, the benefits of Flat Fee Realty are:
- Refund Policy: You can request a refund within 30 days of purchase, as long as your property has not been listed on the MLS.
- Affordable Plan: Their flat fee package is budget-friendly compared to competitors. It is a good option for land and lot owners.
- Disclosures: State-specific disclosures are included with every listing.
- Market Exposure: Your home gets listed on the local MLS and displayed on all major real estate websites like Realtor.com, Zillow, Trulia, etc.
In our research, we found some red flags of Flat Fee Realty, that could make your experience less satisfactory.
- Limited Reviews: Even though Flat Fee Realty has been here since 2006, it has no credible reviews.
- Fixed Package: No customization is offered beyond the basic listing package.
- Not 100% Online: It is not fully online, causing potential delays in listing.
- Additional Fees: You need to pay an additional $50 to upgrade your listing with extra photos.
In our research, we have not found any credible reviews for Flat Fee Realty.
Fred Romano owns Flat Fee Realty LLC. The company is a licensed brokerage in Connecticut. In the remaining states, they partner with licensed brokers to list your property on the MLS.
Flat Fee Realty charges 0.10 – 0.25% commission at closing. Even though they claim the buyer agent pays this, the entire commission comes out of the seller’s proceeds.
Reviews: 3 Best Fixed Percent Discount Brokers in North Carolina
3. Smart Choice Realty
FULL SERVICE REALTY
Listing Fee: Starts at $2,0004.9/5
Smart Choice Realty is a discount realtor based in Raleigh, North Carolina. They offer two packages:
- Flat Fee ($2,000): If you buy and sell a house through Smart Choice Realty, the company lists your house for a Flat Fee of $2,000. It includes home valuation, up to 100 professional photographs, closing assistance, etc.
- Flat Fee ($4,500): If you only sell your house, you must pay a Flat Fee of $4,500. The package includes everything from a $2000 Flat Fee plan.
👉 Our Take: Smart Choice Realty offers home valuation, closing details, a free listing consultation, etc. However, if you buy another home through the company, the fee is $2,000. Otherwise, selling costs $4,500; both are more expensive than many Flat Fee MLS companies.
Based on our research, the benefits of Smart Choice Realty are:
- Home Valuation and Property Analysis: The company analyze your property condition and recommends repairs and improvements.
- Market Exposure: Along with the MLS, your home will be displayed on real estate websites like Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, etc.
- Excellent Customer Service: Home sellers and buyers have praised Smart Choice Realty’s 5-star customer service.
Here are some limitations we found with Smart Choice Realty:
- Limited Service Coverage: The company only offer full-service agent services in Raleigh.
- High Price: If you only sell with Smart Choice Realty, you pay a much higher price of $4,500.
Smart Choice Realty has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars on Google.
Samara Presley established Smart Choice Realty in 2008. They are a good option if you wish to buy and sell at the same time.
Smart Choice Realty analyzes your property, suggests repairs, and helps you sell your home at the best price. However, they only offer services in Raleigh.
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. Trelora
FULL-SERVICE REALTY
Listing Fee: 1% of sale price at closing4.3/5
130+ Reviews
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.
How Much Will You Save With a Discount Real Estate Broker in North Carolina?
You could save up to $8,971 when selling a median-priced $376,000 home with a Flat Fee MLS service in North Carolina.
However, if you pay a standard 3% commission fee, you’d have to pay a whopping $11,280 to your listing agent. But, with Houzeo’s Gold plan, you will only pay $429 with a 0.5% charge at closing.
| Details | Traditional Realtor (3%) | Houzeo’s Flat Fee |
| Median sale price | $376,000 | $376,000 |
| Listing Price | $11,280 | $2,309 |
| Savings | $0 | $8,971 |
» Read these exclusive Houzeo reviews to know why it is one of the best discount real estate brokers in North Carolina!
How to Find Discount Real Estate Brokers Near Me in North Carolina?
Here’s a list of the best discount Realtors in the most popular cities of the Tar Heel State:
| 1. Mooresville, NC | Discount Real Estate Brokers in Mooresville, NC |
| 2. Charlotte, NC | Discount Real Estate Brokers in Charlotte, NC |
| 3. Raleigh, NC | Discount Real Estate Brokers in Raleigh, NC |
| 4. Asheville, NC | Discount Real Estate Brokers in Asheville, NC |
Pros and Cons of Discount Realtors in North Carolina
Discount real estate brokers in North Carolina offer a great way to save. While this cost-saving option sounds good, it’s important to weigh both the pros and cons:
✅ Pros
- Lower Fees: You’ll pay less than a traditional 3% Realtor. And get access to all the features and tools for a much lower fee.
- Full-Service Support: Discount real estate agents in North Carolina offer all basic home-selling services. This includes assistance with how to price your home, marketing, paperwork, and negotiations.
- MLS Access: Discount brokers help you list your home on the MLS in North Carolina, providing exposure to a maximum no. of buyers.
❌ Cons
- Hidden Fees: Some discount brokerages in North Carolina may charge hidden fees for additional a la carte services. You must do your research and opt for the best discount Realtors in NC.
- Inconsistent Service: Some discounted brokers in North Carolina handle multiple clients at once, so personalized attention may be limited. They do this to make up for the reduced commission rate.
- High Cancellation Fees: A few of the discount brokers may impose a significant withdrawal fee if you cancel your agreement within a specific time frame.
Alternatives to Discount Real Estate Brokers in North Carolina
Here are some other options to consider for selling a house in North Carolina:
- For Sale By Owner Companies: In a FSBO sale, you have to handle every step from listing to paperwork. You can choose For Sale By Owner websites in North Carolina that provide MLS access.
- Cash Buyers: Cash buyers in North Carolina, including iBuyers, investors, and home flippers, actively search on the MLS for the listed properties.
- Full-Service Realtor: If you can’t handle the process yourself, you can opt for the traditional home-selling method. But, you’ll have to pay a 3% commission fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best discount real estate brokers in North Carolina?
The top discount real estate brokers in North Carolina are Houzeo.com and Flat Fee Realty. However, Houzeo stands #1 with its 4.9-star rating based on thousands of customer reviews compared to Flat Fee Realty's 10 reviews.
How much is the real estate agent fees in North Carolina?
On average, traditional agents in North Carolina charge a whopping 3% of the sale price as commission. On the other hand, discount real estate brokerage firms in North Carolina charge a flat fee or a fixed percent of 1%.
How do I find a discount real estate broker near me in North Carolina?
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.
