Selling your home without paying hefty realtor fees is possible, and it can save you thousands of dollars. Realtor commissions typically range from 5% to 6% of the sale price, meaning you could pay $24,000 on a $400,000 home. Here are three ways to avoid these fees:

• Sell to Cash Buyers: Quick and simple. No repairs, no showings, and closings in as little as 7–14 days, but offers are often below market value.
• For Sale By Owner (FSBO): Handle the sale yourself to avoid listing agent fees. Requires time, effort, and real estate knowledge, and homes may sell for less than agent-assisted sales.
• Use Online Platforms: Market your home through MLS access and digital tools at a fraction of the cost. You’ll still need to pay a buyer’s agent commission (2.5%–3%).

Each option has pros and cons based on your priorities – speed, convenience, or maximizing profit. Choose the approach that aligns with your needs.

How Realtor Fees Work and Their Impact

What Are Realtor Fees?

Realtor fees are the commissions real estate agents earn for helping you sell your home. These fees are calculated as a percentage of your home’s final sale price and typically cover both the seller’s and buyer’s agents. On average, commissions range from 5% to 6%, with each agent receiving about 2% to 3% before splitting their share with their brokerage firm.

Recent legal changes have shifted how these fees are negotiated. Real estate broker Sal Kabir notes:

"Before the lawsuit, it was customary for sellers to pay commissions for both their agent and the buyer’s agent. After the NAR lawsuit, the way real estate agents get paid has shifted."

Realtor fees are paid at closing, deducted directly from your sale proceeds. While these fees are negotiable, many sellers may not realize they have alternatives beyond the traditional agent route. Let’s break down how these fees impact your bottom line.

How Do Realtor Fees Cut Into Your Profits?

Understanding how realtor fees work is crucial because their impact on your profits can be significant. For example, a 6% commission on a $500,000 home would cost $30,000. On a $400,000 home, it’s $24,000, and for a $300,000 home, the fee drops to $18,000.

Commission fees alone make up about 40% of the total costs associated with selling a home. On average, homeowners spend approximately $55,000 to sell their property, with commissions accounting for nearly $22,000 of that amount. In 2024, total commissions and related costs reached $170 billion, representing 0.6% of the total U.S. GDP. As of May 2025, the national average commission rate stands at 5.44%.

Every dollar saved on commissions directly increases your profit. For instance, avoiding a $24,000 fee on a $400,000 home sale could mean more money for your next down payment, paying off debt, or growing your savings. This is why exploring alternative selling methods can make a significant difference to your financial outcome.

Say Goodbye to Realtor’s Fees: How to Sell Your Home on Your Own

Option 1: Sell Directly to Cash Home Buyers

If you’re looking to avoid the bite of realtor fees and keep more of your hard-earned money, selling directly to a cash buyer might be the way to go. By skipping the traditional route, you can sidestep hefty commissions. Companies like I Will Buy Your House For Cash offer a streamlined process, purchasing properties outright without the usual hassles.

How Does the Process Work?

Selling to a cash buyer is refreshingly simple compared to the traditional home-selling process. Here’s how it typically unfolds:

Step 1: Determine Your Home’s Value
Start by researching recent local sales or using online valuation tools to get a ballpark figure for your property. For a more precise estimate, consider hiring a professional appraiser.

Step 2: Request a Cash Offer
Reach out to a cash buyer, such as I Will Buy Your House For Cash, for a no-obligation offer. They’ll assess your property and provide a cash offer based on the current market.

Step 3: Review the Offer
Take time to evaluate the offer, including the price, terms, and closing timeline. Be sure to verify the buyer has the funds available.

Step 4: Address Inspections and Property Details
Be transparent about any known issues with your home. Cash buyers typically require minimal paperwork, making this step far less complicated than in traditional sales.

Step 5: Finalize the Sale
Once you’re ready, sign the paperwork, and the funds will be transferred to you via wire transfer or cashier’s check. Most cash sales close in as little as 7 to 14 days.

Stephen Haynes from Morristown, TN, highlights the simplicity of the process:

"Selling to a cash buyer is truly the easiest transaction to sell real estate that exists. There are no inspections completed typically, there are no appraisals, and the title company will only need the bare essentials if anything at all. It should be a relatively paper-free transaction."

Benefits of Selling to a Cash Buyer

Selling directly to a cash buyer comes with several perks. For starters, these transactions often close within 7 to 14 days. Cash buyers purchase homes as-is, so you don’t need to worry about repairs or cleaning. Plus, there’s no risk of financing falling through, and you avoid extra fees that can eat into your profits.

Who Should Consider This Option?

This approach is ideal for homeowners who need a quick and hassle-free sale. It’s especially helpful if you’re dealing with situations like foreclosure, a divorce, an inherited property that needs repairs, or an urgent relocation for work. Companies like I Will Buy Your House For Cash specialize in assisting homeowners in these challenging scenarios. They offer flexible closing dates and handle the paperwork, making the process as smooth as possible. Selling to a cash buyer can help you move on quickly while keeping more of the proceeds in your pocket.

Option 2: For Sale By Owner (FSBO) Methods

Selling your home on your own can help you skip listing agent commissions, but it’s not for everyone. The For Sale By Owner (FSBO) approach gives you full control over the sale, but it also means you’ll need to handle all the responsibilities that a real estate agent would typically manage.

In 2024, only 6% of home sales were FSBO, showing that most sellers still opt to work with agents. However, those who choose FSBO can save thousands in commission fees – though it requires a substantial investment of time and effort. Here’s a breakdown of how to navigate the FSBO process successfully.

Steps to Sell Using FSBO

Selling your home without an agent involves taking on all the tasks yourself. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

• Research your home’s market value by looking at comparable properties (comps) in your area. Focus on sales from the past three months to set a realistic and competitive price.
• Set a competitive price. To avoid pricing mistakes, consider hiring a professional appraiser for an unbiased valuation of your home.
• Prepare your home for sale. This includes decluttering, deep cleaning, and making necessary repairs. A fresh coat of neutral paint can make a big difference. Also, invest in professional photography – homes with professional photos sold for $3,400 to $11,200 more on average.
• Market your property. Use a flat-fee service to list your home on the MLS and establish a strong online presence.
• Manage showings and negotiations. Be ready to handle showings and negotiate directly with buyers. Ensure potential buyers are pre-approved for a mortgage or have proof of funds before scheduling showings.
• Handle the closing process. This includes coordinating inspections, managing renegotiations, preparing disclosures, and navigating settlement. Hiring a real estate attorney – typically costing $150 to $400 per hour – can help ensure everything is in order.

FSBO Pros and Cons

The biggest draw of FSBO is saving on commission fees, which can amount to thousands of dollars depending on your home’s value. It also gives you full control over pricing, marketing, and negotiations.

That said, FSBO isn’t without challenges. It demands a significant time commitment for tasks like marketing, managing inquiries, scheduling showings, and handling paperwork. Pricing is another common issue – many FSBO sellers overprice their homes due to emotional attachment, which can lead to longer time on the market. Additionally, FSBO sellers often lack the marketing exposure that agents provide through their networks and resources.

Alex Boylan, a top real estate agent in Minneapolis, highlights the pricing struggle:

"The reality is you didn’t get your house priced right because you have someone who is emotional about their home pricing it…They give it a value that they feel it’s worth. It’s a lot higher than true market value."

Another hurdle is buyer trust. A survey found that 43% of FSBO sellers reported buyers didn’t trust them because they weren’t represented by an agent.

The numbers paint a clear picture: FSBO homes sold for a median of $380,000 compared to $435,000 for agent-assisted sales in 2024. While you might save on commissions, you could end up with a lower sale price.

When Does FSBO Work Best?

FSBO is most effective in hot seller’s markets where homes sell quickly and there’s high buyer demand. In such markets, reduced marketing exposure may not be as much of a disadvantage.

It’s also a good option for experienced sellers who understand the process and have strong negotiation skills. If you’re familiar with your local market and can dedicate the time needed, FSBO might be a viable choice.

However, FSBO can be overwhelming in complicated situations like divorce, foreclosure, or a job relocation requiring a quick sale. In these cases, the added stress of managing everything yourself might outweigh the potential savings.

FSBO can help you keep more of your profit by eliminating commission costs, but it’s only a good fit if you’re ready to take on the responsibilities that come with it.

sbb-itb-293278e

Option 3: Online Platforms for Direct Sales

Online platforms have reshaped how people sell their homes, offering a direct connection between sellers and buyers. These platforms act as a middle ground between hiring a traditional agent and going the "For Sale by Owner" (FSBO) route. Interestingly, 51% of buyers find their homes online, and 43% of buyers in 2024 began their home search on the internet.

How Online Platforms Work

These platforms are essentially digital marketplaces that provide tools to help you market your home and manage the selling process – often at a fraction of the cost of traditional realtor fees. Features commonly offered include pricing tools, access to MLS (Multiple Listing Service) listings, and systems for scheduling and managing showings. Flat-fee MLS services, for example, offer packages that range from under $100 to several hundred dollars, depending on the services and location.

The typical process involves several steps, including researching pricing, making small home improvements, using professional photography, creating an MLS listing, managing showings, and handling closing tasks. This streamlined, digital approach not only saves money but also puts you in control of marketing your home effectively.

Tips for Success on Online Platforms

A standout online listing can make all the difference. Homes with professional photos and videos get 61% more views, sell faster, and often fetch higher prices. To create a strong listing:

• Use high-quality photos that highlight key rooms and unique features.
• Time your photos during the "magic hour" when natural light is at its best.
• Consider hiring a professional photographer and staging important spaces for better presentation.

Specific details matter. Include information like the number of bedrooms, standout features, and the perks of your location to help your listing grab attention.

Real estate expert David Bitton, co-founder and CMO of DoorLoop, highlights the importance of targeted marketing:

"Focusing on long-tail keywords relevant to property types and locations has proven effective in attracting more targeted traffic, and is the key to converting visitors into clients."

Virtual tours and videos are also increasingly essential. Nearly half of buyers over the past two years purchased homes without ever touring them in person. Tools like Matterport allow you to create immersive 3D tours, which can significantly engage potential buyers.

Social media can help amplify your reach. Promote your listing across platforms and keep an eye on its performance. If needed, update photos, descriptions, or pricing to keep your listing competitive.

Buyer’s Agent Commissions to Consider

While online platforms can save you money, some costs remain. For instance, while you can skip paying a listing agent, you might still need to cover the buyer’s agent commission, which typically ranges from 2.5% to 3% of the sale price. Real estate agent Pamela Auld explains:

"If a seller does not pay the buyer’s agent commission, then they won’t have any buyers looking at their house."

Additionally, some platforms charge transaction fees or closing commissions, and flat-fee MLS services might have hidden costs. Always review the fine print of any service agreement to avoid surprises.

Although selling online can cut costs, the lack of personalized support in pricing, marketing, and negotiation might impact your final sale price. Homes listed on the MLS typically sell for about 18% more than those without MLS exposure. When choosing an online platform, compare features like coverage area, photo limits, listing duration, and cancellation policies. Look for packages that suit your needs, offering benefits like flexible listing terms, ample photo allowances, free updates, and lead forwarding services.

For sellers who want more control over the process while still leveraging professional tools and MLS exposure, online platforms are a solid choice. The key to success lies in the time and effort you put into crafting a compelling listing and managing the details. With careful planning and attention to costs, you can sidestep traditional realtor fees and maximize your profit.

Compare Your Options: Which Fits Your Situation?

Now that we’ve covered the strategies, let’s break down the options side by side. Choosing the right selling method depends on your financial goals, how much time you can dedicate, and the current market climate. Each approach has its own set of benefits and challenges, making them better suited for different situations.

Pros and Cons of Each Option

Selling to Cash Home Buyers is one of the quickest and easiest ways to sell a home. Closings often happen in as little as 7–14 days, and you can skip repairs, staging, and the hassle of showings or negotiations. The trade-off? Offers are usually below market value, and some companies may charge service fees, so reviewing the terms is crucial.

For Sale By Owner (FSBO) gives you full control over the process, allowing you to save on the typical 3% listing agent commission. You set the timeline and make all the decisions. However, it requires a lot of time, effort, and a solid understanding of real estate. FSBO homes often sell for less than those listed with agents, and you’ll likely still need to pay the buyer’s agent commission (about 3%) to attract serious offers.

Online Platforms strike a balance between going solo and hiring a full-service agent. These platforms give you access to MLS listings and professional tools, along with broader exposure, while still giving you more control than working with an agent. However, you might still need to offer a buyer’s agent commission, and some platforms charge transaction or closing fees that can add up.

Comparison Table

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you evaluate your options based on cost, effort, and potential outcomes:

Factor	Cash Home Buyers	FSBO	Online Platforms
Upfront Costs	Low (may include fees)	Low (marketing costs vary)	$99–$599, depending on package
Time to Close	7–14 days	Variable (longer if overpriced)	Moderate (depends on buyer interest)
Effort Required	Minimal	High (marketing, showings, negotiations)	Moderate (platform handles some tasks)
Potential Sale Price	Below market value	Often lower than agent-assisted sales	Closer to market value with MLS exposure
Paperwork Handling	Buyer handles it	Seller responsible	Varies by platform
Buyer’s Agent Commission	Not required	Typically 2.5–3%	Typically 2.5–3%

Your decision should align with your priorities. If speed and convenience are top concerns, a cash home buyer might be the best fit, even if it means accepting a lower offer. If you have the time, knowledge, and energy to take full control, FSBO could work, though it comes with challenges. And for those looking for professional tools and MLS access without paying full agent fees, online platforms offer a middle-ground solution.

Local market trends also play a role. In competitive markets, FSBO or online platforms can deliver strong results. But in slower markets, the certainty of a quick cash sale might be more appealing. Keep in mind, staging your home can have a big impact – staged homes sell for 17% more on average and 95% of them sell within 11 days. This could be a deciding factor based on your home’s condition and whether you’re willing to invest in improvements.

Conclusion: Pick the Best Approach for Your Needs

The best selling method for your home depends on your priorities – whether you value speed, convenience, or maximizing profit.

If you’re in a hurry, selling for cash can close the deal in as little as 7–10 days, bypassing the need for repairs or endless showings. Doug Van Soest, owner of SoCal Home Buyers, highlights the simplicity of this approach:

"You make a phone call or answer some questions online, agree to an offer, and then it’s not something you have to worry about anymore. Plus, you’ll save money on things like commissions, repairs, and closing costs."

For those focused on getting the highest possible price, listing on the open market is often the way to go. However, this route requires time and effort to prepare your home and navigate the selling process.

Interestingly, 29% of home sales in January 2025 were cash transactions, showing that many sellers prioritize speed and certainty over squeezing out a higher offer. As Will Holly of Holly Nance Group explains:

"The value a cash buyer offers is convenience and speed. You’ll avoid the time hurdle involved with back-and-forth negotiations with multiple buyers."

If you want a straightforward, no-fee process, I Will Buy Your House For Cash provides no-obligation offers for homes in any condition. This family-owned business in Cranford, NJ, eliminates agent fees, commissions, and closing costs, while offering flexible closing dates.

"Remember that the offer might be slightly lower than market value because you exchange some of that value for speed and convenience. Based on your circumstances, assess whether the trade-off is worth it."

Ultimately, the right choice comes down to your priorities. Whether you need a quick, hassle-free sale or want to maximize your profit, aligning your decision with your goals ensures the best outcome. And if you’re still on the fence, a real estate professional can offer valuable insights to guide you.

FAQs

What should I consider before selling my home to a cash buyer?

Selling your home to a cash buyer can be a fast and hassle-free option, but there are some key points you should consider. Cash offers are usually lower than the market value. Why? Because cash buyers tend to focus on a quick and straightforward process rather than paying the highest price.

Another thing to watch out for is the less regulated nature of the cash-buying industry. This opens the door to potential scams or unreliable buyers. To stay safe, make sure to do your homework – research the buyer thoroughly, confirm their legitimacy, and carefully review all contracts before moving forward.

How can I set the right price for my home when selling it myself (FSBO)?

To set the right price for your home when selling it yourself, start by looking into recent sales of comparable properties in your neighborhood. Focus on homes similar in size, features, and condition – often referred to as "comps." These comparisons give you a solid idea of what buyers might be willing to pay.

If you want a more accurate estimate, you might consider hiring a professional appraiser or using online valuation tools. Keep in mind, though, that market trends, buyer feedback, and your timeline for selling could require you to tweak your asking price. Getting the price right from the beginning is crucial for attracting serious buyers and ensuring you get the best possible return.

What should I look for when choosing an online platform to sell my home?

When picking an online platform to sell your home in the U.S., prioritize visibility and reach to ensure your property gets the attention it deserves. Platforms with high traffic and a solid reputation are more likely to connect you with serious buyers.

Pay attention to the features available. Options like high-quality photo uploads, virtual tours, and detailed property descriptions can help your listing stand out from the crowd. It’s also worth reviewing the platform’s fees to see if they align with your budget. And don’t overlook usability – an intuitive interface is key for both you and potential buyers navigating the site.

Choosing a dependable platform with the right audience and tools can boost your chances of selling your home faster while bypassing the costs tied to traditional realtors.

Related posts

• Cash Sale vs Traditional Sale: Which Is Better?
• 5 Benefits of Selling Your House for Cash
• Quick House Sale Options for Divorce Cases
• Best Ways to Sell a Fixer-Upper House