If you’ve been scrolling through listings lately, you’ve probably noticed that $600,000 is a bit of a "sweet spot" in the Edmonton real estate market. It’s that price point where you move from great starter homes into truly impressive, forever-home territory—spacious detached houses in prime neighbourhoods like Glenora or Strathcona, or perhaps a modern masterpiece in a newer development.

But the big question that keeps every potential buyer up at night isn’t just "do I like the kitchen?" It’s "can I actually afford this?"

Hi, I’m Derek Keet, and I spend my days helping Edmontonians navigate these exact numbers. There is a lot of noise out there about interest rates, stress tests, and "hidden" costs. Today, I’m going to pull back the curtain and show you exactly what the math looks like for a $600,000 home. More importantly, I’m going to show you how working with a savvy, full-service agent who understands the value of a dollar—like we do here at One Percent Realty—can actually put you in a better position to make that dream a reality.

The Big Number: What’s the Annual Income Requirement?

Let’s get straight to the point. To comfortably afford a $600,000 home in Canada, most financial experts and lenders are looking for a household income in the range of $130,000 to $150,000 per year.

Now, before you close this tab, remember: that is a household income. Whether it’s you and a partner, or perhaps you’re looking at a property with a secondary suite to help with the mortgage (a very popular move in Edmonton right now!), that number is often more attainable than it looks at first glance.

Why the range? Because affordability isn't just about your salary; it’s about how much of that salary is already spoken for and how much you’re putting down upfront.

The Down Payment: Your First Hurdle

In Canada, for a $600,000 home, you can’t just put down a flat 5%. The rules are a bit more nuanced. You need:

• 5% on the first $500,000 ($25,000)

• 10% on the portion above $500,000 ($10,000)

So, for a $600,000 house, your minimum down payment is $35,000.

If you put down less than 20% (which would be $120,000), you’ll also need to factor in CMHC mortgage insurance. This is a premium added to your mortgage to protect the lender. While it’s an extra cost, it’s also the tool that allows thousands of Edmontonians to get into the market without having $100k+ sitting in a savings account.

Passing the "Stress Test"

This is where many buyers get caught off guard. Even if you find a great mortgage rate—say, around 4.5%—the bank won't qualify you at that rate. They use the "Stress Test," which usually means qualifying you at either 5.25% or your actual rate plus 2%, whichever is higher.

The government wants to make sure that if rates go up in the future, you won't lose your home. As your agent, I make sure we’re looking at homes that fit your stressed budget, not just your best-case scenario budget. This prevents heartbreak later when the bank gives you the final "no."

The Edmonton Advantage: Why $600k Hits Different Here

I often talk to people moving here from Vancouver or Toronto. In those markets, $600,000 might get you a studio apartment or a fixer-upper condo. In Edmonton? $600,000 makes you a king.

But affordability isn’t just the mortgage. You have to look at the "Monthly Carry."

1. Property Taxes

Edmonton’s property taxes are relatively straightforward, but they are an annual cost you must budget for. For a $600,000 home, you’re looking at roughly $6,000 to $6,100 per year in property taxes (depending on the specific assessment). When you're calculating your monthly "PITH" (Principal, Interest, Taxes, and Heating), that adds about $500 to your monthly bill.

2. Utilities and Maintenance

One of the reasons I love the Edmonton market is the variety of homes. However, an older bungalow in a mature neighbourhood might have higher heating costs than a brand-new build in the suburbs. I always advise my clients to look at the "bones" of the house. A $600,000 home is a significant investment; you don't want to be surprised by a $500 heating bill in January because of old windows.

How Derek Keet and One Percent Realty Change the Game

You might be wondering, "Derek, if I'm buying a home, why does your commission structure matter to me as usually it is the buyers side that worries more about this?"

It matters because most people buying a $600,000 home are also selling their current property. This is where the One Percent Realty Commission Structure becomes your secret weapon.

Traditional real estate agents often charge high percentage commissions that eat away at your hard-earned equity. When you sell your current home with me, you keep thousands of more dollars in your pocket. That’s money you can put toward your new down payment, potentially pushing you past that 20% threshold to avoid CMHC fees, or simply giving you the cash you need to renovate your new $600,000 dream home.

At One Percent Realty, we don’t believe "discount" means "less service." I provide full service. That means:

• Full MLS® exposure.

• Professional photos and signs.

• Handling all showings and negotiations.

• The same (or better!) expertise than agents charging much more*.

Here is how our structure works:

• For homes under $400,000, we charge a flat $7,950 + GST. (This includes $3,500 offered to the buyer's agent).

• For homes between $400,000 and $900,000—which includes our $600k target—we charge just $9,950 + GST. (This includes $4,500 offered to the buyer's agent).

• For those luxury homes over $900,000, it’s a simple 1% + GST.

When you compare that to a traditional "7 and 3" commission model, the savings are staggering. When you sell with me to buy that $600,000 house, you aren't just getting a realtor; you’re getting a financial head start.*

The Bottom Line: Can You Do It?

Affording a $600,000 house in Edmonton is a realistic goal for many professional couples and families. It requires a solid income, a disciplined approach to debt, and a smart strategy for your down payment.

But beyond the spreadsheets, you need a partner who knows the Edmonton streets. You need someone who can tell you which neighbourhoods are appreciating, which builders have the best reputations, and where the best deals are hiding.

I’ve built my reputation on being the most knowledgeable agent in this city because I don't just look at houses—I look at the math, the market trends, and most importantly, your goals. Whether you are looking for a modern infill in Bonnie Doon or a sprawling family home in Terwillegar, I am here to make sure you get the best possible value.

Ready to see what $600,000 can get you in today's market? Or maybe you want to see exactly how much you’d save selling your current home with the Derek Deal?

Head over to dkeet.ca to browse current listings or use my mortgage calculator to run your own numbers. Let's get you into that dream home without breaking the bank.

Derek Keet | One Percent Realty 

Edmonton REALTOR® 

587-803-0396  https://linktr.ee/dkeet 

Edmonton Real Estate Agent | Helping Homeowners Sell for Top Value

*Compared with a broker charging 7% on the first $100,000 and 3% on the balance, plus GST. Not all brokers charge the same.

If you’ve been browsing real estate listings in Edmonton or driving past lawn signs in areas like Griesbach or Terwillegar, you’ve probably noticed a wide range of promises regarding commission percentages. But when you’re ready to sign a contract, you want the truth: what is the absolute lowest percentage a REALTOR® can charge?

Technically, because commissions are negotiable, an agent could charge any percentage. However, the real question is: what is the lowest percentage you can pay while still receiving full professional service and ensuring the buyer's agent is compensated?

One Percent for High-Value Homes

The name "One Percent Realty" was born in the high-volume markets of Vancouver and Toronto, and it remains the gold standard for value in real estate. I’m Derek Keet, and I’ve brought that same commitment to the Edmonton market. For homes over $900,000, my commission is 1% of the sale price (our of this, half of this commission is offered to the buyer’s brokerage).

On a million-dollar home, a traditional "7 and 3" commission could cost you upwards of $34,000. By charging 1%, I’m able to save you tens of thousands of dollars while still providing the exact same MLS® exposure and professional negotiation that any "full-priced" agent would provide.

The Problem with "Lower" Than 1%

Occasionally, you might see an advertisement for a rate that seems even lower than 1%. As a knowledgeable agent who has seen it all in the Edmonton market, I urge you to look at the fine print. Often, these "ultra-low" rates are for "mere postings." This means the company does nothing more than put your home on the MLS® system. They don't take the photos, they don't vet the buyers, and they certainly don't stand in your corner during tough negotiations.

More importantly, these rates almost never include the commission for the buyer's agent. In Alberta, if you don't offer a competitive commission to the agent bringing the buyer, your home may sit on the market much longer. The beauty of the "Derek Deal" is that for homes under $900,000, my flat fees already includes commissions offered for the buyer's agent ($3,500 for homes under $400k and $4,500 for homes between $400k and $900k).

Why the Percentage Matters to Your Bottom Line

Your "walk-away" number is what matters most. This is the cash in your pocket after all fees are settled. In Edmonton’s competitive landscape, those extra percentage points can represent a year’s worth of salary for some people.

If you are selling a $600,000 home:

• Traditional Agent (7/3 model): You pay approximately $22,000 plus GST.

• Derek Keet ($9,950 flat fee): You pay $9,950 plus GST.

The savings exceed $12,000. That’s a massive win for your financial future. You can see the full breakdown of how I calculate these savings at https://dkeet.ca/1-derek-deal.html.*

Efficiency Over Expense

Why can I offer these rates when other Edmonton agents can't? It’s about efficiency. Traditional brokerages often have massive overhead—expensive offices, large support staffs, and outdated marketing methods, supporting sports teams, large events and other expenses that in the end must all be paid from the sale of real estate and related fess charged. I use the latest digital tools to market your home to the widest possible audience. I focus on what actually sells homes: great photography, accurate pricing, and massive online exposure.

By focusing on a volume-based, high-value model, I can provide the same (or better) service as a traditional agent while keeping the commission percentage low. I don't need to charge you more for paying for things that likely have very little value for you. My focus is on your home and your results.

Choosing the Top Agent for the Best Rate

Being one of the top real estate agent in Edmonton isn't about charging the most; it's about being the most knowledgeable and providing the best value. I know the nuances of every neighborhood, from the new developments in the south to the established communities in the north. I know how to price your home to attract multiple offers and how to handle those offers to ensure you get the best terms.

When you look for the lowest commission, don't just look for a number. Look for a track record. Look for a full-service guarantee. If you want to keep more of your money and still get the professional representation you deserve, the choice is clear. Visit https://dkeet.ca/ to learn more about how I can help you navigate the Edmonton market with confidence and significant savings*.

Derek Keet | One Percent Realty 

Edmonton REALTOR® 

587-803-0396  https://linktr.ee/dkeet 

Edmonton Real Estate Agent | Helping Homeowners Sell for Top Value

*Compared with a broker charging 7% on the first $100,000 and 3% on the balance, plus GST. Not all brokers charge the same.

When you decide to sell your home in Edmonton, the first thing that usually crosses your mind—after "how much can I get for it?"—is "how much is this going to cost me?" It’s a fair question. You’ve worked hard for your equity. Whether you’re in a character home in Strathcona or a modern build in Windermere, that equity represents your future. So, when you start looking into commissions, you naturally want to know: what is the lowest commission a REALTOR® will take?

I’m Derek Keet, and as a top real estate agent in Edmonton, I believe in being 100% transparent. The first thing you need to know is that in the real estate industry, all commissions are negotiable. There is no "law" or "standard" that dictates a minimum fee. However, when you start looking for the lowest possible rate, you have to be very careful about what is actually included in that price. Many times, if an agent offers a rate that seems too good to be true, they are stripping away essential services or leaving you to pay the buyer's agent out of your own pocket later.

The Truth About "Low" Commissions

In the traditional Edmonton market, you’ll often hear about the "7 and 3" model. This is where a brokerage charges 7% on the first $100,000 of the sale price and 3% on the remaining balance. On a $450,000 home, that adds up to roughly $17,500 plus GST. When people search for the lowest commission, they are looking for a way to protect that equity.

But here is the catch: if an agent tells you they will list your home for an incredibly low flat fee, ask them if that includes the commission for the buyer’s agent. Often, it doesn't. In a typical real estate transaction, the total commission is split between the listing side and the buying side. If you pay a "discount" agent a tiny fee just to put your home on the MLS®, you might find yourself stuck also paying 3% or more to the agent who brings the buyer. Suddenly, that "low" commission isn't so low anymore.

The One Percent Realty Advantage

At One Percent Realty, we’ve structured our fees to be the benchmark for value in Edmonton, without the hidden gaps. The One Percent commission fees are built on the principle of providing full service for a predictable, fair price that already accounts for both sides of the transaction.

For homes under $400,000, I charge a flat fee of $7,950 plus GST. The most important part? That $7,950 includes $3,500 that is offered to the buyer’s agent. This is crucial. It ensures that every REALTOR® in Edmonton is offered commission to show your home to their clients, while you still save thousands compared to traditional rates.

For homes between $400,000 and $900,000, the fee is $9,950 plus GST. This tier includes $4,500 offered to the buyer’s agent. This covers a massive portion of the Edmonton housing market, providing a full-service experience—including professional photos, MLS® exposure, and expert negotiation—for a fraction of what "higher commission" agents charge.

Why "Lowest" Shouldn't Mean "Less"

As the most knowledgeable real estate agent in this city, I can tell you that "low commission" should never mean "low service." Some discount models are "mere postings," meaning they just put your home on a website and leave you to do the work. You handle the phone calls, you host the open houses, and you handle the high-stakes legal negotiations.

When you work with Derek Keet, you get a full-service partner. I handle every aspect of the sale. My goal is to ensure your home looks better than the competition and sells for the best possible price, all while keeping your costs down. I use modern marketing technology to reach buyers where they are—online. Because I operate more efficiently, I can pass those savings directly to you.

Protecting Your Equity

Let’s look at the math. If you’re selling a $500,000 home in Edmonton using a traditional 7%/3% model, you could be looking at a commission of around $19,000 plus GST. With me, using the $9,950 tier, you are saving nearly $10,000. That is money that stays in your bank account for your next down payment, your retirement, or your family’s future.

To see a detailed breakdown of how these savings work for your specific home price, visit https://dkeet.ca/1-derek-deal.html. I lay everything out because I believe that when you have the facts, you’ll see why I am positioned as the top choice for savvy Edmonton sellers.

Positioning Yourself for Success

In the Edmonton market, timing and presentation are everything. Whether you are selling a condo downtown or a family home in the suburbs, your goal is maximum equity. By choosing Derek Keet, you aren't just getting a "discount"—you are getting a top-tier agent who understands how to leverage a high-value model to get you the best results.

If you’re ready to see what full service looks like without the bloated price tag, let’s chat. You can find more information about my services at https://dkeet.ca/. Don't leave your equity to chance or get caught by "low" rates that don't include the full picture. Work with the best, pay less, and get more.

Derek Keet | One Percent Realty 

Edmonton REALTOR® 

587-803-0396  https://linktr.ee/dkeet 

Edmonton Real Estate Agent | Helping Homeowners Sell for Top Value

*Compared with a broker charging 7% on the first $100,000 and 3% on the balance, plus GST. Not all brokers charge the same.