Flat-Fee Realtor vs Commission Realtor – Which Is Right for You?
Compare flat-fee MLS services with traditional commission realtors. Learn costs, pros and cons, and when each model makes sense for Washington sellers.
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Flat-Fee Realtor vs Commission Realtor – Which Is Right for You?
Understanding the Two Models
When selling your home, one of the most important decisions is how to structure your real estate services. Traditionally, sellers hire a commission-based realtor. More recently, flat-fee MLS providers have emerged as an alternative.
Both have pros and cons, and the best fit depends on your goals as a seller.
What Is a Commission Realtor?
- Charges 5–6% of sale price (split between seller’s and buyer’s agents).
- Example: $79K home = $30K in fees at 6%.
- Provides full-service support: pricing, staging, marketing, negotiation, contracts.
- Advantage = convenience + expertise.
- Trade-off = high cost.
What Is a Flat-Fee Realtor?
- Provides MLS access for a fixed fee ($79).
- Property appears on MLS + Zillow, Redfin, Realtor.com.
- Seller manages showings, buyer communication, and negotiations.
- Appeals to DIY/confident sellers.
- Advantage = massive savings.
Key Differences
| Factor | Commission Realtor | Flat-Fee MLS |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | % of sale price (5–6%) | Fixed upfront fee |
| Service | Full-service | MLS only (+ add-ons) |
| Control | Agent manages process | Seller manages process |
| Savings | Limited | Tens of thousands possible |
| Buyer’s Agent | Still 2–3% | Still 2–3% |
When Commission Realtors Work Best
- First-time sellers needing full guidance.
- Complicated transactions (estate sales, title issues, unique properties).
- Busy sellers without time to manage showings/offers.
- Competitive markets needing advanced negotiation.
When Flat-Fee MLS Works Best
- Experienced sellers confident in handling process.
- High-value homes (savings scale with price).
- FSBO sellers wanting MLS exposure.
- Budget-conscious sellers maximizing net proceeds.
Hybrid Approaches
Some brokerages offer middle-ground options:
- Limited-service packages (pay for photos, pricing help, contract review).
- More affordable than full commission, with more support than flat-fee only.
How Wayber Fits In
For Washington sellers, Wayber offers:
- Transparent flat-fee MLS access.
- Direct NWMLS listing + syndication to Zillow, Redfin, Realtor.com.
- WA-compliant forms included.
- Local expertise, no % closing fees.
👉 Start with Wayber’s flat-fee MLS service.
Related Resources
Conclusion
- Commission realtor = convenience but expensive.
- Flat-fee MLS = affordable, full exposure, more control.
👉 For WA sellers, a flat-fee MLS service like Wayber often provides the best balance of savings + visibility.