Flat Fee Listings Gain Popularity Among Sellers

Sale2Sold, a leading Canadian real estate platform offering modern listing solutions, has released its August 2025 Market Insights Report.

According to Sale2Sold’s analysis of national housing data, more Canadian home sellers are choosing flat fee listings over traditional commission models as sales volumes slow and affordability pressures persist. This shift is especially visible in urban centres like Toronto and Vancouver, where selling costs can quickly add up.

“Homeowners are becoming more cost-conscious,” says a Sale2Sold market analyst. “With higher mortgage rates, modest price growth, and increased competition from new listings, sellers are looking for ways to maximize equity. Flat fee listings are gaining traction because they provide professional MLS® exposure without paying unnecessary commission.”

National Housing Market Snapshot

At the national level in August, Canadian home sales declined 3% year-over-year, while average home prices were essentially flat. Detached homes posted a modest 1% increase, townhouses remained unchanged, and condo prices declined by 5%.

With margins tightening, sellers are focusing not only on marketing but also on reducing transaction costs. By opting for flat fee MLS® listings, many homeowners are saving thousands of dollars that would otherwise go toward agent commissions.

Quebec City and Calgary Remain Seller-Friendly

Despite the national slowdown, some cities continue to post strong gains.

• Quebec City: Home prices rose 9% annually, driven by limited housing supply and high demand for entry-level homes.

• Calgary: Prices climbed 6%, supported by steady inflows of interprovincial migrants and affordability compared to larger markets.

Local REALTORS® in both cities report that multiple offers are still common on well-priced listings. For homeowners in these competitive markets, flat fee listing services allow them to capture maximum exposure while protecting their equity.

Toronto and Vancouver Sellers Prioritize Cost Savings

In contrast, Canada’s two largest housing markets faced greater challenges:

• Toronto: Prices declined 4% year-over-year, with condo values falling nearly 10%.

• Vancouver: Prices dropped 5%, also weighed down by condo oversupply.

For sellers in these higher-cost regions, the appeal of flat fee listings is clear. By paying a set fee to list on MLS®, sellers maintain access to serious buyers while saving significant commission costs. These savings can be redirected toward closing costs, moving expenses, or their next purchase.

Why Flat Fee Listings Are Gaining Ground

Flat fee real estate listings are emerging as a practical solution for sellers across Canada. Key benefits include:

• Cost savings: Avoid paying full commission rates and keep more of your equity.

• MLS® exposure: Reach a wide pool of qualified buyers through Canada’s most trusted real estate marketplace.

• Flexibility: Customize services to fit your selling strategy, rather than paying for extras you don’t need.

• Transparency: Know upfront what you’re paying without hidden costs.

About Sale2Sold

Sale2Sold is Canada’s trusted real estate platform helping homeowners sell smarter. Through flat fee listing services, buyer rebates, and rental support programs, Sale2Sold is changing how Canadians buy and sell homes. By combining affordability with professional exposure, the platform ensures sellers keep more of their equity while still reaching qualified buyers.

Long-Term Market Outlook

While housing demand in Canada remains steady, affordability challenges and higher interest rates are reshaping seller strategies. Traditional high-commission models are losing ground as homeowners seek cost-effective, transparent alternatives.

The August 2025 market data underscores a broader trend: Canadians want cost savings without compromising visibility. With services like Sale2Sold, sellers are finding practical solutions that align with today’s evolving market conditions .