✏️ 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 Golden State.
Top 6 California Real Estate Companies:
-
For Home Sellers
- Houzeo: Best Technology
- Vanguard Properties: Best for Marketing Properties
- RE/MAX: Expert Assistance
-
For Home Buyers
- Lyon Real Estate: Best for First Time Buyers
- Coldwell Banker Realty: Best for Local Market
- Berkshire Hathaway: Best for Commercial Properties
Best Real Estate Companies for Home Sellers in California
Here are the top 3 real estate companies in California 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 California’s #1 real estate company. It offers maximum savings, excellent customer support, and advanced technology.
Houzeo also provides affordable listing packages to California home sellers. You can list on MLS through Houzeo and save thousands in commissions while reaching a wide buyer audience.
2. Vanguard Properties
VARIOUS SERVICES
Headquartered in San Francisco, CA2.3/5
Vanguard Properties has been active in San Francisco, CA for more than 35 years now. Owned and operated locally, Vanguard Properties knows the communities it serves like no one else.
- Traditional Agent – 5% to 6% commission: Pricing is not disclosed on the website, this means you might end up paying the traditional 3%- 6% commission.
👉 Our Take: Vanguard Properties uses its widespread agent network, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional marketing to ensure a successful and efficient home sale.
Key highlights of Vanguard Properties are:
- Vast Network: With a vast local and global agent network, sellers can be assured of a quick home sale.
- Market Exposure: They offer various services like open houses, premium technology systems, and marketing research to ensure maximum exposure to your property.
- Knowledgeable Agents: Agents at Vanguard Properties have considerable knowledge and experience in selling properties in the Bay Area.
A few drawbacks of Vanguard Properties are:
- Limited Coverage: Vanguard Properties only covers San Francisco, Marin County, Sonoma and Napa Counties, and East Bay.
- No Mobile App: Unlike other real estate companies like Houzeo, Vanguard Properties is low on tech.
- Poor Customer Reviews: Most customers have complained about agents’ lack of professionalism.
Vanguard Properties has 2.3 out of 5 stars on Yelp
Vanguard Properties has been serving the San Francisco Bay Area and Northern California for more than 35 years. As a home seller, you get access to their vast agent network.
Additionally, the company offers advanced marketing strategies, professional photography, and a strong online presence. However, they have limited coverage outside these areas and do not provide a mobile app.
3. RE/MAX
Good Exposure
3% - 6% Commission1/5
RE/MAX has its headquarters in Orlando, FL. The company does not disclose agent commissions on its website. However, based on reviews you may have to pay 3% to 6% as commission.
- No corporate fee is involved with RE/MAX referrals. You can choose the agents or vice versa and set the terms of your agreement.
👉 Our Take: RE/MAX is known for its reputation and credibility. It is a solid choice for home sellers due to its extensive network and experienced agents. The company offers unparalleled exposure for your property.
Here are the key features of RE/MAX:
- Global Reach: RE/MAX has over 135,000 agents, and its network is spread over 100 countries.
- Competitive Home Pricing: Agents at RE/MAX will conduct an in-depth evaluation and a CMA of your property to price your home competitively.
- Additional Service: RE/MAX Collection and RE/MAX Commercial offer specialized tools and advertising programs to luxury and commercial real estate professionals.
Here are some drawbacks of RE/MAX:
- Limited Discount Options: The company focuses on traditional full-service brokerage rather than discount or low-cost options.
- Inconsistent Service: Service quality may vary depending on the local franchise office.
RE/MAX has a poor rating of 1 out of 5 stars from 300+ users 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.
In addition, 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. However, previous customers have complained about a lack of communication from its agents.
Best Real Estate Companies For Home Buyers in California
Here are the top home-buying companies in California to help you find your dream home.
1. Lyon Real Estate
97% CUSTOMER SATISFACTION RATE
Based in Sacramento, CA4.5/5
Founded in 1946 by William L. Lyon, Lyon Real Estate has over 1000 agents and employees in 17 offices throughout the greater Sacramento area.
- No Service Fee: Lyon Real Estate does not charge buyers any fee for its services.
👉 Our Take: Known for being a “client-oriented real estate company” in the Greater Sacramento region, Lyon has earned a 97% customer satisfaction rating. Their real estate agents help clients achieve their home-buying goals.
» Cash Home Buyers in Northern California: Discover the best cash home buyers in Sacramento and nearby areas.
Key features of Lyon Real Estate include:
- Reliable Agents: Your realtor will review a range of factors including the number of for-sale homes competing for your offer, the terms sellers look for in a clean offer, and any additional terms that are likely to appeal to a specific seller.
- New Map Search: New Map Search, an innovative feature, lets customers quickly view properties that are displayed on a virtual map of the Greater Sacramento Area.
- Personalized Alerts: Your agent will alert you when new homes are on the market. You’ll receive property details and photos, price and status changes, a virtual tour, and more.
- Mortgage Lender: Lyon Real Estate’s trusted mortgage lender Guild Mortgage offers technical resources with personalized customer service standards, which includes in-house underwriting, funding, and loan servicing. Each office has a Guild Mortgage consultant.
- Mobile App: You can now browse properties at your fingertips with Lyon Real Estate’s mobile app.
One of the deal breakers of Lyon Real Estate is :
- Limited Information: The website provides limited information on the scope of services offered to buyers.
Lyon Real Estate has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 on Yelp. Since the firm has multiple offices statewide, it is ideal to verify the ratings of the office nearest to your city.
Lyon Real Estate is a popular real estate company in Sacramento, California. Since 1946, it has grown to become one of the largest independent real estate firms in the region. The company specializes in residential property sales and rentals.
Moreover, it boasts a team of experienced agents and maintains multiple office locations for client convenience. Additionally, the company uses advanced technology for efficient property searches and smooth transactions.
2. 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 is based in New Jersey and has been a trusted name in real estate for more than 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.
3. Berkshire Hathaway Home Services
Luxury Listings
Based in Minneapolis2.9/5
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is a real estate brokerage franchise. BHHS makes over $136 billion annually in residential real estate transactions.
- No Service Fee: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices does not charge home buyers any fee for its services.
👉 Our Take: Berkshire Hathaway is ideal for buyers seeking luxury homes or high-end properties. Their agents provide expert advice and detailed market insights.
The key features for Berkshire Hathaway include:
- Exclusive Listings: Buyers gain access to high-end and luxury properties that may not be available on other platforms.
- Professional Network: Access to a broad network of professionals, including mortgage brokers and home inspectors.
- Assistance in Paperwork: The agents handle all paperwork for you to buy a house.
Here are a few drawbacks of Berkshire Hathaway:
- Higher Costs: The focus on luxury properties often means higher prices, which might not suit all budgets.
- Limited Options: Fewer choices are available for buyers looking for more budget-friendly homes.
Berkshire Hathaway has a rating of 2.9 out of 5 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.
Best Real Estate Companies to Work for in California
When you choose a real estate company to work for in California, 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 California:
| 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 California’s real estate market.
How to Choose the Best Real Estate Company in California?
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 California Worth It?
Yes! Real estate companies in California 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 California.
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 California’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 in California?
Houzeo is the best real estate company for home sellers in California. It offers sellers maximum savings, dedicated customer support and 100% online experience. Real Estate Sales Force and RE/MAX are some of the other options to sell your home.
» Best Real Estate Companies in California: Find out the top companies in California.
What are the best real estate companies for buyers in California?
The best real estate companies for home buyers in California are Watson Realty Corp, The Keyes Company, and Premier Plus Realty. 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 California?
Premier Sotheby’s International Realty is considered one of the best luxury real estate companies in California. It offers services like home staging, high-resolution photography, drone footage and virtual tours.
How can I sell my property quickly in California?
You should set a competitive price, enhance curb appeal, and highlight your home features effectively to sell your house fast in California.
