1% Commission Real Estate Agent: Save on Fees, Not Service

Ever wonder if you really need to give up a big chunk of your home sale to agent fees? You’re not alone. More sellers are asking if a 1% commission agent can do the job just as well, for way less. That means saving thousands without losing out on service. Sounds great, right? But there’s more to it than just numbers.

Some 1% agents deliver full service at a bargain. Others, not so much. Before you sign anything, it’s smart to know what you’re getting into. We’ll break down how 1% commission works, where the risks hide, and how to tell if it’s the right move for you.

Thinking of skipping the agent fees altogether? Get a fast, data-backed cash offer from iBuyer.com and close when you’re ready.

What Is a 1% Commission Real Estate Agent?

A 1% commission real estate agent is just what it sounds like, someone who helps you sell your home but charges a lower fee than usual. Most traditional real estate agents take around 2.5% to 3% of the sale price. A 1% agent charges much less, which could save you thousands.

Now, here’s the catch: that 1% usually covers only the listing agent’s side. You’ll still likely pay another 2%–3% to the buyer’s agent. So, your total fees may end up closer to 3% or 4%, not just 1%.

Some agents can offer this low rate because they work with a lot of clients at once or use online tools to cut down on costs. But low commission doesn’t always mean low quality, some still offer full service, including pricing help, showings, and contract support.

How Much Can You Really Save With a 1% Commission?

Let’s say your home sells for $500,000. A traditional agent charging 3% would take $15,000 just on their side. With a 1% commission, that drops to $5,000. That’s $10,000 back in your pocket, enough for moving costs, upgrades, or your next down payment.

But don’t forget the buyer’s agent. In most cases, you’ll still pay around 2.5% to them, even with a discount listing agent. So your total commission might be 3.5% instead of the usual 6%. Still a big savings, just not quite as low as “1%” makes it sound.

Also, make sure to ask about extra fees. Some 1% agents charge for marketing, professional photos, or open houses. That can shrink your savings if you’re not careful.

Why Would a Real Estate Agent Work for a Lower Commission?

Agents who charge just 1% usually aren’t doing it out of kindness, they have a plan. Some newer agents are trying to build their track record, so they offer lower fees to get more listings. Others work for companies that give them lots of clients, so they can make up for the lower rate with volume.

Tech also plays a role. Some discount brokerages use online tools and systems to handle tasks faster. That means fewer in-person meetings and more automation, good for cutting costs, but sometimes not great for personal service.

Bottom line? Some 1% agents are just as sharp as full-price ones. Others might be juggling too many deals or learning as they go. Ask questions and make sure they’re giving you the support you need.

The Risks and Trade-Offs of Using a 1% Commission Realtor

Saving money sounds great, until it costs you more in the long run. One big risk with 1% agents is limited service. Some won’t handle open houses, high-end marketing, or help with tricky negotiations. You might end up doing more of the heavy lifting yourself.

Another thing to watch for? Dual agency. That’s when your agent also represents the buyer. It might seem efficient, but it can lead to conflicts of interest. You want someone fully on your side, not splitting their loyalty.

Then there’s time. Some discount agents juggle a lot of listings at once. That can mean slower responses, rushed showings, or less attention to detail, things that could hurt your sale price.

Always ask what’s included, and don’t assume every 1% deal is the same.

How to Choose the Right 1% Realtor for Your Home Sale

Picking the right agent isn’t just about the price, it’s about the fit. Start by asking what services they include. A good 1% agent should still help with pricing, photos, marketing, and paperwork. If they expect you to do most of that, you’re not really getting a deal.

Next, check their reviews. Look for recent sellers in your area and see what they say. Were they happy with the process? Did the agent stay in touch and get results?

It also helps to ask about their local market knowledge. Someone who knows the neighborhood can price your home better and talk to buyers with confidence.

And finally, trust your gut. If they’re hard to reach or rushing you through the process, that’s a red flag, no matter what they charge.

Alternatives to 1% Commission Realtors

If a 1% agent doesn’t feel like the right fit, you’ve got other options. One choice is going with an iBuyer, like us. You get a fast, data-backed cash offer, skip showings, and choose your close date. It’s all about speed, simplicity, and control.

Another route is selling your home yourself, known as FSBO (For Sale By Owner). You’ll save on listing fees but take on all the work, pricing, marketing, showings, and paperwork. It’s doable, but it’s a full-time job.

You could also try a flat-fee MLS service. These list your home on local platforms for a set price, usually a few hundred bucks. But again, you’re doing the legwork.

Each option comes with trade-offs. It really depends on how much time, effort, and risk you’re comfortable taking on.

Reilly’s Two Cents

I’ve worked with plenty of sellers who felt stuck between high agent fees and going it alone. A 1% listing can sound like the perfect middle ground, but not all discount agents are created equal.

Here’s what I always tell folks: price isn’t everything. Before jumping at a low rate, dig into what’s actually included. Will they handle marketing? Are they responsive when you have questions? Do they have local experience that’ll help you set the right price? These things matter more than a few percentage points.

Also, check their recent sales. A solid track record means they know how to close deals without cutting corners. And don’t be afraid to ask for references. A good agent, at any price, should be happy to prove their value.

If you’re trying to save, great. Just don’t save yourself into a mess.

Smart Ways To Save

A 1% commission realtor can be a smart way to save, if you pick the right one. Some offer full service at a fair price, others cut corners to keep costs low. The key is knowing what you need, asking the right questions, and not assuming all “discounts” are equal.

If you’re looking to sell fast and skip the agent drama altogether, we’ve got your back. You can get a fair cash offer, backed by real data, and close when it works for you.

Ready to move on your terms? Get your no-obligation cash offer today from iBuyer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Reilly Dzurick

Reilly Dzurick is a seasoned real estate agent at Get Land Florida, bringing over six years of industry experience to the vibrant Vero Beach market. She is known for her deep understanding of local real estate trends and her dedication to helping clients find their dream properties. Reilly’s journey in real estate is complemented by her academic background in Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication from the University of North Florida.