What Really Happens When You Pay Your Real Estate Agent Less?

By Ron Palmer

Ron’s expertise has earned him a spot among the top 50 realtors in the Valley. Happily married for 38 years, Ron is a proud parent and grandparent and holds CDPE, CIAS, and CNE designations, reflecting his dedication to client success.

Why pay full commission when some agents charge less? A lower rate sounds good at first, but that small discount can actually cost you a lot more in the end.

Think of it as selling a car. One buyer offers $10,000 and says that’s it, while another buyer says, “I will clean it up, show it off properly, and handle all the marketing for a fee.” In the end, you’re likely to make more money with the buyer who puts in the extra effort.

Selling your home works in the same way, but on a much bigger scale and with a property that really matters. If you’re wondering about commissions, here’s a closer look at how things really work.

The reality of commission discounts. A 1% or 2% commission feels good upfront, but that discount often comes with less exposure, less marketing, and weaker negotiating skills. Those things don’t just cost a little; they can actually cost tens of thousands of dollars.

What you’re really paying for. When you hire a full-service agent, you’re paying for professional marketing. This can include photos, walkthrough videos, 3D floor plans, and a social media plan designed specifically for your property. The goal is maximum exposure, making sure your home reaches all potential buyers, not just a few.

Strong negotiation skills are part of the package as well, including conversations with buyers’ agents to understand what they want, securing the right bottom line for you, and tying everything together with the proper terms.

Don’t think of commissions as a cost. Instead, consider them an investment. I’ve sold hundreds of homes, and time and time again, I’ve been able to get 5% to 10% more for my clients. So ask yourself: do you want to make money or just save a little?

If you want to make money, reach out to me at 602-750-0755 or send an email to customercare@soldwithresults.com. I’ll show you how.