Do You Really Need to Pay 6% to Sell Your Home?
That number has been the industry standard for decades, but times have changed. Not every seller needs full-service representation. And not every home sale needs to cost thousands in commission. The truth is you have more options now.
Let’s break them down:
1. What Does 6% Actually Cover?
Traditionally, it breaks down like this:
3% to the buyer’s agent
3% to your listing agent
That 3% on your side covers marketing, photos, negotiation, paperwork, and coordination. Please see my Services Offered Chart to see the full breakdown of what is offered in a traditional listing through a full-service brokerage, like Copper Roof Properties.
Here’s the problem: not every home sale needs full-service treatment. And not every seller wants to pay luxury pricing for a simple transaction.
2. What Are My Options Now?
You’ve got three real choices:
* Flat Fee MLS Listing – $449
This is my most affordable option through Copper Roof Properties. I’ll get your property listed on the MLS—where serious buyers and agents are actually looking. You manage your own showings, negotiations, and paperwork, but I’ll provide the industry-standard disclosure forms to get you started.
It’s a smarter, more strategic version of FSBO. You keep control and save money, but still get your home in front of the right people.
* Limited-Service Listing – 1% Commission
Need a little more support? This hybrid plan includes a pricing recommendation based on market data, professional MLS listing, ShowingTime access, and one round of listing updates. You handle showings and negotiation, but I’ve got your back on the backend.
* Full-Service Brokerage – 3% Commission
Want someone to handle it all? This plan includes pricing strategy, listing prep, showings, marketing, communication with agents and buyers, inspection and repair coordination, and closing management. Great for busy sellers or anyone who just wants it done right—start to finish.
3. Will Buyers Still Show Up If I Don’t Pay 3%?
This is where strategy matters.
In Charleston, offering some buyer agent compensation is still wise. But it doesn’t have to be the full 3%. You can offer less—and still attract plenty of qualified buyers. Especially if your home is well-priced and marketed properly.
In fact, how your home is presented often matters more than the commission percentage.
4. Why Haven’t More Agents Told Me This?
Because many brokerages aren’t set up for flexibility.
They train agents to follow one script, one model, one rate.
But I believe in options.
You shouldn't have to overpay just because “that’s how it’s always been done.”
5. So What’s the Catch?
There isn’t one.
If you want full-service help, I offer it.
If you want to save thousands and just need listing support, I do that too.
My job is to help you sell your home—your way.
Want to See How the Numbers Look for You?
I’ll run a custom CMA and show you exactly what your home might sell for—and how different listing models would impact your bottom line.
No pressure. Just real info.