BREAKING NEWS: Post the NAR Settlement, South Carolina discount real estate brokers can save you almost the entire 6% commission. That translates to saving up to $22,938 in commission on an average $382,300 South Carolina home.
Whether you’re selling a house in Greenville or Charleston, the best discount real estate brokers in South Carollina 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 $23K on an average South Carolina home.
Rankings: Top 5 South Carolina Discount Real Estate Brokers
We’ve listed the top 5 discount real estate brokers in the Palmetto State based on how much you can save on an average $382,300 home.
| 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 Flat Fee | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| 3. | 1% Lists CSRA | 1% Commission | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| 4. | Trelora | 1% Commission | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| 5. | Redfin | 1% Commission | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
Types of Real Estate Discount Brokers in South Carolina
There are two types of South Carolina 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 South Carolina 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: 5 Best Discount Real Estate Brokers in South 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.
» 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, 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 South Carolina’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. Flat Fee Realty
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 a 0.10% to 0.25% commission at closing. Although they claim the buyer’s agent pays this fee, the entire commission is deducted from the seller’s proceeds.
Reviews: 3 Best Fixed Percent Discount Brokers in South Carolina
3. 1 Percent Lists CSRA
LOCAL EXPERTS
Listing Fee: 1% of sale price5/5
1 Percent Lists CSRA is a franchise of 1 Percent Lists and covers the SC-GA region. They use cutting-edge marketing strategies to save thousands of dollars for sellers.
- 1% Commission: The commission is charged upfront, and there are no hidden charges. Their service package includes MLS Listing, showings, marketing, managing inspections and appraisals, dealing with paperwork, and handling negotiations.
👉 Our Take: 1% Lists CSRA can be a cost-effective option to get a full-service package. However, they have limited coverage and do not offer services to home buyers.
1 Percent CSRA offers certain advantages:
- Market Exposure: They give more market exposure to sellers by listing on the MLS, Zillow, Trulia, and other real estate platforms.
- Low-Cost Full Service: They offer the same real estate services as a standard realtor but at a fraction of the cost.
- Digital Marketing: Innovative marketing strategies that leverage social media platforms are their strength.
- Contract Negotiations: They negotiate with the buyer to get the best value for the seller’s property.
- Advanced Technology: Electronic document transfer and Bluetooth lockboxes show the company’s reliance on technology.
1 Percent Lists CSRA has certain disadvantages:
- Limited Coverage: They currently cover only Columbia County, Richmond County, and the Augusta area in the SC-GA region.
- Low Credibility: The company has around 30 reviews on Google. Its credibility cannot be ascertained on the basis of a few reviews.
- No Buyer Support: 1 Percent Lists CSRA isn’t a buyer-focused platform, and it offers no significant benefits for home buyers.
1 Percent Lists CSRA has a 5-star rating on Google.
Noah Utne started 1 Percent Lists CSRA in 2005. They work on a franchisee business model and covers the South Carolina and Georgia regions.
1 Percent Lists CSRA charges 1% commission upfront with no hidden charges. However, their coverage is limited, and they do not offer any services to home buyers.
4. 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 home sellers a dedicated agent. They connect with a different agent at every step of the process, which may lead to delays, mistakes, and miscommunication.
5. Redfin
#1 Nationwide Brokerage
1% Listing Fee3.7/5
Redfin is America’s #1 discount real estate brokerage. It offers services in 100+ real estate markets across the country in 49 states.
- Redfin Full-Service Agent – 1.5% Commission: This is a full-service package. This includes pricing assistance, listing paperwork, negotiation support, etc.
- Redfin Concierge – 2.5% Commission: The “Concierge” plan includes everything from the Full-Service package. Additional services include professional cleaning and home staging.
- Redfin Premier Agent – 1.5% Commission: This package is exclusively for luxury properties and includes everything that comes with the Full-Service package.
Mobile App: Yes
👉Our Take: When you opt for Redfin, you can save a considerable amount on the commission fees. Although Redfin tries to provide its service 3x faster than the traditional method, it limits its ability to provide personalized service.
Here are some advantages of choosing Redfin:
- Advanced Technology: Redfin is primarily known for its advanced tech platform and mobile app.
- Full-Service Agents at Low Commission – 1.5%: Redfin offers a full-service package for just 1.5%. It saves you thousands of dollars compared to the traditional 3% listing commission.
- Detailed Paperwork: Redfin handles the necessary paperwork and an elaborate listing agreement with a marketing plan.
- Nationwide Coverage: Redfin covers 80+ markets in the US.
- Easy Deal Closings: Redfin agents help with negotiations and guide you throughout your home-selling process. It will make your closing easy and faster.
» 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 the ack of personal attention by Redfin salaried agents.
- Limited Agent Selection: As per customer reviews, Redfin lacks an array of agents. This means you get an agent assigned automatically without having any choice in the matter.
- Lack of Personalized Services: Customers have often complained that Redfin agents are not able to give personalized service, as they serve a high volume of clients.
Redfin has an average rating of 3.3 out of 5 stars on Yelp and an average of 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 South Carolina: How Much Will You Save?💲
South Carolina 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 $22,938 to sell an average $382,300 house in the Palmetto State. But, if you choose a flat-rate broker company, you save thousands. With Houzeo’s Gold plan, you only pay $2,341 and save $20,598!
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 South Carolina?
Here’s a list of the best discount Realtors in the most popular cities of the Palmetto State:
| Greenville, SC | Discount Real Estate Brokers in Greenville, SC |
Discount Realtors in South Carolina: Pros and Cons
Even though cheap Realtors in South Carolina 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 South Carolina than a 6% Realtor. Even if you only want to list your home on South Carolina MLS, you pay a much lower fee than the typical 3% listing agent fee.
- Receive Full-Service Realtor Services: Discount real estate agents in South Carolina 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 South Carolina 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 SC.
- Unreliable Service Quality: Discounted real estate brokers in South Carolina 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 SC 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 South Carolina
Here are some options if you do not want to opt for a discount Realtor in South Carolina:
- 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 South Carolina will help you list on the MLS and increase exposure.
- Sell Your House to Cash Buyers: Almost all cash buyers in South Carolina scour the MLS for South Carolina 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 South Carolina. You’ll end up paying a full 5% to 6% commission. That’s $22,938 on a $382,300 home gone!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the best discount real estate brokers in South Carolina?
Houzeo.com and Flat Fee Realty are the top discount real estate brokers in South Carolina. Both provide an incredible combination of savings and technology. However, Flat Fee Realty has been rated 3.2 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 South Carolina?
On average, traditional agents in South Carolina charge 5% to 6% of the sale price as commission. On the other hand, discount real estate brokerage firms in South Carolina charge 1% to 3%.
How do I find a discount broker near me in South 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.
Can you negotiate Realtor fees in South Carolina?
Yes, you can! Infact, post the NAR Settlement, you can now also negotiate buyer’s agent commissions.
