Is a Lower Commission Realtor the Right Choice for Your Home Sale?

 

There’s always a bit of hesitation when it comes to hiring a realtor. Not because people don’t want help—selling a home is no small task—but because of the commission. It’s that number that sticks. Often somewhere around 5%, sometimes more. And when you’re dealing with a home that’s worth hundreds of thousands, maybe even more? That percentage starts to feel like a lot.

Which is exactly why lower commission realtors are getting more attention. Especially in places like British Columbia’s West Coast, where property values tend to run high.

But is saving on commission worth it? That depends.

 

Why Commission Still Matters

To begin with, real estate commissions are how most realtors get paid. They don’t bill hourly. They don’t charge a flat fee up front. Instead, they work—sometimes for weeks or months—knowing they only earn when the property sells.

So that commission isn’t just about posting a listing and showing up with a key. It covers pricing strategy, negotiations, paperwork, staging advice, marketing, open houses, and sometimes, just keeping things on track when emotions run high. Which they often do. Selling a home isn’t only about numbers; it’s personal.

But here’s where things get nuanced. Not every seller needs the exact same level of service. Some homes are ready to list as-is. Others? They practically sell themselves in certain markets.

 

Where a Lower Commission Realtor Fits In

This is where a lower commission realtor starts to make sense. Especially for sellers who feel confident about the condition of their home—or those who’ve done a bit of homework themselves.

They might not need full-service hand-holding, just solid representation. A good strategy. Someone to handle the logistics, the offers, the legal side of things. And if that’s the case, why pay full price?

Lower commission doesn’t always mean lower service. That’s worth saying again. It doesn’t always mean less. Sometimes it just means more efficient. More focused. Or perhaps tailored—like getting the help you need, without everything you don’t.

 

What’s the Tradeoff?

Still, it’s not always black and white. There are trade-offs, even if they’re small. Some lower commission realtors work with more clients at once to make up the difference. That’s not inherently bad, but it might mean slightly longer response times or a little less flexibility on short notice.

There’s also marketing. A traditional full-commission agent might include professional staging, high-end photography, video tours—all bundled in. With a lower commission model, those might be offered à la carte. You pick and choose, maybe at an extra cost.

Of course, not everyone wants or needs all of that. And sometimes, honestly, a well-priced home in a good location doesn’t need a cinematic video walk-through to get noticed. It needs a fair shot, a clear listing, and someone to field offers wisely.

 

A Seller's Perspective

Some sellers say the difference is barely noticeable—aside from the thousands saved at closing. One couple in Surrey, for example, opted for a lower commission realtor after their first agent overcomplicated things. Too many frills, not enough focus. The second time around, they paid less in fees and closed faster.

That’s not a universal story, of course. Others might prefer the comfort of a full-service team. And there’s nothing wrong with that either. What works best often depends on the seller’s mindset, the property itself, and, frankly, the timing.

 

What to Look for in a Lower Commission Realtor

It’s still important to do your homework. Whether someone charges 2%, 1.5%, or anything in between, they should still be experienced. Still know the area. Still be responsive. Those things don’t get discounted.

Check reviews. Ask about recent sales. Get a feel for how they communicate. Are they direct? Honest? Do they listen more than they pitch? Because while the commission is part of the conversation, trust is what ultimately matters.

After all, this is likely one of the biggest transactions someone will ever make.

 

Final Thought (Even If It’s a Bit Unfinished)

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. A lower commission realtor might be the smart choice—or it might not be. But the option is there, and it’s gaining traction for a reason. In a world where homeowners are more informed and more hands-on than ever, having flexible choices just makes sense.

And maybe that’s the takeaway. Not that one model is better, but that you can choose. You can save without cutting corners, as long as you’re clear on what you need—and what matters most to you.

Sometimes that’s money. Other times? It’s peace of mind.

 

Thinking about selling your home in Surrey, White Rock, or Langley? A lower commission realtor from 2 Percent West Coast Realty might offer the value and service you’re looking for—without the full-service price tag. Reach out and see what makes the difference.