Do People Still Pay Full Commission to Sell Their Home?

Rupi Azrot

April 9, 2025

f you're considering selling your home, you might be asking:
Do people still pay full commission to sell their home?
With the real estate landscape evolving, it's a valid question. Let's delve into the current state of real estate commissions and explore alternatives that could save you money.

The Traditional Commission Model

Traditionally, selling a home involved hiring a real estate agent and agreeing to a commission fee, typically around 5-6% of the home's sale price. This fee was usually split between the seller's agent and the buyer's agent. For example, on a $500,000 home sale, a 6% commission would amount to $30,000, divided equally between both agents.

Recent Changes in Commission Structures

In recent years, the real estate industry has witnessed significant shifts in commission structures:

Legal Settlements: In March 2024, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) agreed to a settlement that eliminated certain commission rules, allowing for more flexibility and transparency in how commissions are negotiated and paid. MarketWatch
Average Commission Rates: Data indicates that the average real estate commission has been decreasing. As of 2024, the national average was around 5.32%, with variations depending on the region. Anytime Estimate

Do Sellers Still Pay Full Commission?

While many sellers continue to pay traditional commission rates, there's a growing trend toward exploring alternatives:

Negotiating Commissions: Sellers are increasingly aware that commission rates are negotiable. Some agents are willing to accept lower fees, especially in competitive markets.
Flat-Fee Services: Companies like ListLean offer flat-fee listing services, allowing sellers to pay a predetermined fee rather than a percentage of the sale price. This can result in substantial savings.
For Sale By Owner (FSBO): Some homeowners choose to sell their properties independently, avoiding agent commissions altogether. However, this approach requires a solid understanding of the real estate process.

The Rise of Flat-Fee Real Estate Services

Flat-fee real estate services have gained popularity as a cost-effective alternative to traditional commission models. Here's why:

Cost Savings: Instead of paying a percentage-based commission, sellers pay a fixed fee, often resulting in significant savings.
Transparency: Flat-fee models offer clear, upfront pricing, eliminating surprises at closing.
Flexibility: Sellers can choose the level of service they need, from basic listing assistance to full-service support.

How ListLean Can Help

At ListLean, we understand that selling your home is a significant financial decision. Our flat-fee listing services are designed to provide you with:

Affordable Pricing: List your home for a one-time flat fee, avoiding hefty commission costs.
Comprehensive Support: Access professional assistance tailored to your needs, ensuring a smooth selling process.
Maximum Exposure: Get your property in front of potential buyers without the traditional costs. Business Insider

Final Thoughts

So, do people still pay full commission to sell their home? While many do, the landscape is changing. Sellers now have more options than ever to reduce costs and retain more equity from their home sales. Exploring alternatives like flat-fee services can lead to substantial savings without compromising on service quality.

Ready to sell your home and save on commission fees?
Discover how ListLean can help you navigate the selling process affordably and effectively.

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FAQ’s

Frequently asked questions

What is the MLS?

The Multiple Listing Service, or MLS, is a database used by real estate brokers to share information about properties for sale by sellers they represent to brokers who represent potential buyers.

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What is a Flat Fee MLS listing?

A Flat Fee MLS listing is a service that allows homeowners like you to list their property on the local MLS for a flat fee rather than paying a traditional real estate agent's commission, which is typically a percentage of the sale price.

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How does a Flat Fee MLS listing work?

You pay a one-time fee to have your property listed on the MLS database. This fee usually covers the cost of listing your property on the MLS for a specified period, often ranging from 6 months to a year. You retain the right to sell your home FSBO and handle the selling process yourself.

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Why can’t I edit my Zillow listing after my property goes live on the MLS?

Once your home is listed on the MLS, websites like Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com automatically pull your listing data directly from the MLS.

Because of this MLS connection, Zillow removes homeowner editing access to avoid conflicting information online. This is a Zillow policy that applies to any home listed through the MLS — regardless of which agent or company lists it.
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You can read Zillow's official policy here:
https://www.zillow.com/c/about-linking-and-claiming-listings/

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Am I signing a listing agreement with ListLean?

No, you are not signing a traditional listing agreement with us. ListLean does not represent you as an agent. Instead, you are signing an MLS Entry Agreement, which is required to list your property on the MLS while staying compliant with board and MLS regulations. This agreement allows us to post your listing but does not establish an agent-client relationship. You still remain a For Sale By Owner (FSBO) seller, maintaining full control over your sale.

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Do I need to provide photos and descriptions for my listing?

Yes. Try to provide high-quality photos and a detailed description of your property for the MLS listing. Remember, you want to get the best price for your home, so clear, well-lit photos and an accurate (non-puffed) description will go a long way towards generating interest for your house. We offer professional photography for an extra $250 because we know first impressions are the only ones that matter online in the age of swiping left.

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Can I change the listing price or details after it's posted on the MLS?

Absolutely! Just email us anytime at team@listlean.com for any updates, changes, or open house requests.

For Open Houses, please send us:

Property Address (in the email subject line)
Open House Day(s)
Start & End Time

We ask for at least 48 hours’ notice so we can update the MLS properly. Once updated, Zillow and other websites will reflect those changes automatically within 24-48 hours.

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How do showings and negotiations work with a Flat Fee MLS listing?

As the FSBO homeowner, you'll be responsible for scheduling and conducting showings with potential buyers. When you receive offers, you'll negotiate directly with the buyer or their agent. It's advisable to seek legal counsel or hire a real estate attorney to review any offers or contracts to ensure they're in your best interest.

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What happens if my property doesn't sell during the listing period?

If your property doesn't sell during the initial listing period, you may have the option to renew your Flat Fee MLS listing for an additional fee.

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Is ListLean a Licensed Broker?

Absolutely. ListLean LLC operates under Offercity Brokerage Inc, holding California CalBRE #02185966. As a licensed broker, we’re authorized to list your home on local MLS databases throughout California.

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