Sell Your Home with Full MLS and Low Commission in Ontario

June 18, 2025
Sell Your Home

Parting with a home is often among the most significant financial decisions you’ll make in your lifetime.The choice of how you sell your home and how much you pay in real estate commissions can significantly impact your bottom line. Traditionally, real estate agents in Ontario charge a commission of 5 to 6 percent, which is split between the buyer’s and seller’s agents. However, there’s a growing trend toward low commission options that provide full MLS exposure and comprehensive services at a fraction of the cost.

In this article, we explore how homeowners can sell your home with full MLS exposure while paying lower commissions, thus retaining more of their profits without sacrificing service quality.

Traditional Real Estate Commissions in Ontario

The typical real estate commission in Ontario can be substantial, often between 5 to 6 percent of the property’s selling price. This commission is typically divided between the seller’s agent and the buyer’s agent, with each receiving approximately half. For instance, if you sell your home for $500,000, the commission could range from $25,000 to $30,000.These commissions often cover marketing, listing your property on MLS, professional photography, staging, and the services of a qualified agent who will negotiate on your behalf.

While these services can certainly be valuable, many homeowners are questioning whether the high commission rates are truly necessary. With the rise of digital tools and online platforms, many aspects of the home selling process, such as marketing and pricing analysis, have become more accessible to the public. This is leading more people to seek alternatives to traditional commission structures when planning to sell your home.

The Rise of Low Commission Realtors

In response to growing consumer demand for more cost effective options, many real estate agencies in Ontario are offering reduced commission rates, without compromising on the quality of service. One example of such a service is a 1 percent commission structure, which, when combined with a buyer’s agent commission, typically 2.5 percent, can result in a total commission of around 3.5 percent.

By operating with this low commission model, real estate agencies can pass significant savings on to the seller. These savings come from streamlining operations, utilizing technology to reduce overhead, and focusing on a higher volume of transactions rather than maximizing commission from individual sales. Despite the lower commission, you still receive all of the traditional services needed to sell your home effectively comprehensive market analysis, staging, professional photography, virtual tours, and extensive online marketing.

Full MLS Exposure with Sale2Sold’s Low Commission Realtors

One of the most common concerns homeowners have when opting for a low commission realtor is whether their property will receive the same level of exposure as it would with a traditional agent. With Sale2Sold, we ensure your property gets the maximum exposure it deserves.

Your property will be listed on Sale2Sold.com, along with major MLS systems, ensuring it reaches a wide audience of potential buyers and their agents. We also provide visibility on various other real estate platforms and partner websites, extending the reach to thousands of prospects who are actively searching for homes. So, when you sell your home, it doesn’t miss any important buyer eyes.

In addition to MLS exposure, we offer buyer rebates as an incentive to attract more buyers, giving you the edge over other listings in the market. Our lead reward programs ensure that leads are carefully nurtured and followed up with, guaranteeing you a better chance at closing deals. If you’re looking to sell your home as part of a rental investment strategy, we also provide support in marketing your property as rental homes, targeting tenants and buyers alike.

Our comprehensive digital marketing services include professional photography, virtual tours, and social media promotions. Whether you’re renting or looking to sell your home, Sale2Sold provides all the necessary tools to enhance your listing’s visibility and appeal, all while maintaining a low commission rate.

How Much Can You Save with Low Commission Realtors?

The financial benefits are clear when you sell your home through a low commission realtor. For instance, imagine you’re putting your property on the market for $800,000.

With a traditional 5 percent commission, the total would amount to approximately $40,000. However, with a 1 percent listing fee and a 2.5 percent buyer’s agent commission, the total drops to around $28,000 saving you $12,000.

For a higher value home, such as one worth $1.2 million, the savings could exceed $18,000. This extra cash can be reinvested into your next property, used for renovations, or simply saved for the future. When you approach selling your home wisely, every dollar makes a difference.

These savings also allow you to price your property more competitively, potentially speeding up the sale and reducing carrying costs. With lower commission fees, sellers may even be able to afford to make upgrades or repairs that could increase the home’s sale price.

Flexibility in Commission Structures

One of the advantages of working with low commission realtors is the flexibility they offer in structuring commission fees. While many traditional agents adhere to the standard 5 percent commission split between the seller’s and buyer’s agents, low commission agents typically allow sellers to have more control over how the commission is allocated.

For example, while the seller may pay 1 percent for the listing agent, they may also have the option to offer a higher commission to the buyer’s agent to incentivize them to bring in more buyers. Offering a competitive commission can ensure that your property remains attractive to buyer agents, especially when you aim to sell your home quickly.

Low commission realtors typically recommend offering buyer agents between 2 and 2.5 percent, but the choice is ultimately up to the seller. This level of control can help sellers tailor their commission structure based on their needs and the competitive landscape in their area.

Technology and Efficiency: Driving Down Costs

The ability to offer full service real estate with lower commissions is largely due to advances in technology. Digital marketing tools, online transaction management, virtual tours, and e signatures have reduced the need for traditional office overhead, allowing low commission realtors to run more efficiently and at a lower cost. These tools help real estate agents manage more listings with less time and resources, which ultimately lowers costs for those looking to sell your home.

Additionally, low commission realtors often minimize their operational costs by operating from a centralized office, using mobile agents who can work remotely. This reduced overhead allows agents to pass the savings on to their clients while still earning a competitive income.

How to Choose the Right Low Commission Realtor

While low commission realtors offer significant savings, it’s important to choose the right agent to ensure a smooth selling process. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a low commission realtor:

  • Experience and Track Record: Look for an agent with proven success in your local market. Check their sales history, client reviews, and days on market statistics to ensure they have the experience to sell your home quickly and at the right price.
  • Service Offerings: Understand what services are included in the commission and what additional costs may apply. Some low commission agents provide basic listing services, while others offer full service packages with professional photography, staging, and extensive marketing.
  • Marketing Strategies: Ask the agent about their marketing approach and the tools they use to promote your property.
  • Communication: Choose an agent who communicates well and is responsive to your needs.
  • Local Market Knowledge: Select an agent who understands your neighborhood and has expertise in pricing, marketing, and helping you sell your home efficiently.

Success Stories of Low Commission Realtors

Many homeowners have benefited from the savings offered by low commission realtors while still receiving full service representation. For example, Michael and Emily from Tillsonburg saved over $10,700 in commission fees while receiving professional support throughout the selling process. Violetta, who sold two properties in London, Ontario, saved nearly $15,000 in commissions proof that you can sell your home without overspending on fees.

Final Wordings: Maximize Your Profits with Low Commission Realtors

The real estate industry in Ontario is evolving, and low commission models are gaining traction. By choosing a low commission realtor who offers full MLS exposure and comprehensive services, you can save thousands in commission fees while still receiving top notch service.

Whether you’re looking to sell your home for $500,000 or $1.2 million, opting for a low commission realtor allows you to keep more of your equity while still achieving a successful sale. With the right marketing, expertise, and flexibility, low commission realtors are transforming the way Canadians sell your home today.

Make the smart choice and discover how to sell your home efficiently while maximizing your return.

FAQ's

  • What is a low commission realtor, and how do they differ from traditional agents?

    A low commission realtor offers full real estate services at a reduced commission rate often around 1% for the listing agent compared to traditional agents who charge 5 to 6%. Despite the lower fees, sellers still receive professional marketing, MLS exposure, photography, and negotiation services.

  • Will my home still be listed on the MLS with a low commission agent?

    Yes, reputable low commission realtors ensure your property is listed on the MLS and other major platforms, giving it the same exposure as traditional listings. Many also include virtual tours, social media promotions, and digital marketing to attract buyers.

  • How much can I save by using a low commission realtor in Ontario?

    Savings can be substantial. For example, on an $800,000 home, switching from a 5% traditional model to a 3.5% total commission structure can save you around $12,000. For homes priced at $1.2 million, savings may exceed $18,000.

  • Are there any compromises in service quality with lower commission rates?

    No. Low commission agents often provide the same level of service as traditional agents, including staging advice, market analysis, professional photography, and full transaction support. They reduce costs through technology and efficient operations, not by cutting service quality.

  • How do I choose the right low commission realtor?

    Look for agents with a strong track record in your local market, clear communication, a robust marketing plan, and transparent service offerings. Review their past sales, client testimonials, and ensure they understand your neighborhood’s pricing dynamics.