You save a whopping $12,888 when selling a median-priced $429,600 home in Virginia. But how? With a discount real estate broker in Virginia, 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 Virginia Discount Real Estate Brokers
As Virginia’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 Virginia. They offer lower commission rates and services compared to traditional Realtors. We’ve ranked the top 5 discount brokerages in the Old Dominion State for you to choose from.
| 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 | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
What Are the Types of Discount Real Estate Brokers?
Virginia 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 Brokers 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 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 Virginia. 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. 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
#1 Nationwide Brokerage
1% Listing Fee3.7/5
Redfin offers services in 100+ real estate markets across the country in 49 states.
- Redfin Full-Service Agent – 1% Commission: This package includes pricing assistance, listing paperwork, negotiation support, etc.
- Redfin Premier Agent – 1.5% Commission: This package is exclusively for luxury properties and includes everything that comes with the Full-Service package.
👉Our Take: When you opt for Redfin you might get their service 3x faster than the traditional method. However, you may not get personalized attention with less no. of agents for home staging, showings, etc.
Here are some advantages of choosing Redfin:
- Advanced Technology: Redfin is primarily known for its high-tech platform and mobile app.
- Near Nationwide Coverage: Redfin covers 49 states in the US.
- Easy Deal Closings: Redfin agents guide you through paperwork, marketing plans, and negotiations to make your closing easy and faster.
Here are some drawbacks of Redfin based on their customer reviews:
- Pricing Inaccuracy: Many sellers have complained that a lot area, a gated compound, or a city location are not considered during valuation.
- Slow Listing Process: According to Redfin’s listing agreement, a Redfin property takes 18 days to list on MLS. Services like Houzeo will list you on the MLS within 24 to 48 hours.
- Lack of Customer Service: There are a few negative reviews about the lack of personal attention by Redfin 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: Due to agents handling multiple clients at once, customers have often complained that Redfin agents are not able to give personalized service.
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: Read more to make an informed decision before selling your home.
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.
How Much Will You Save With a Discount Real Estate Broker in Virginia?
You could save up to $10,311 when selling a median-priced $429,600 home with a Flat Fee MLS service in Virginia.
However, if you pay a standard 3% commission fee, you’d have to pay a whopping $12,888 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 | $429,600 | $429,600 |
| Listing Price | $12,888 | $2,577 |
| Savings | $0 | $10,311 |
» Read these exclusive Houzeo reviews to know why it is one of the best discount real estate brokers in Virginia!
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
What are the best discount real estate brokers in Virginia?
The top discount real estate brokers in Virginia are Houzeo.com and ListingSpark. However, Houzeo stands #1 with its 4.9-star rating based on thousands of customer reviews compared to ListingSpark's 190+ reviews.
How much is the real estate agent fees in Virginia?
On average, traditional agents in Virginia charge a whopping 3% of the sale price as commission. On the other hand, discount real estate brokerage firms in Virginia charge a flat fee or a fixed percent of 1%.
How do I find a discount real estate 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.
