If you’ve been looking into the Edmonton real estate market, you’ve likely asked yourself: Can I actually negotiate REALTOR® fees? The short answer is a resounding yes. In Canada, and specifically here in Alberta, all real estate commissions are negotiable. There is no law, no government regulation, and no "set" price that dictates what a REALTOR® must charge for their services.
However, just because you can negotiate doesn’t mean it’s always easy—or that you’ll get the same level of service from everyone. Many traditional brokerages lean on a tiered structure that has become common over the years, often charging 7% on the first $100,000 and 3% on the balance of the sale price. But as home prices in Edmonton continue to climb, these percentage-based fees can eat away at your hard-earned equity.
That’s where I come in. My name is Derek Keet, and as a top REALTOR® in Edmonton with One Percent Realty, I’ve built my reputation on the belief that you shouldn’t have to choose between professional, full-service representation and saving your money. I position myself as the link between high-value service and sensible pricing, ensuring that you keep more of your money where it belongs: in your pocket.
The Reality of Commission in Edmonton
When you start interviewing agents to sell your home, you might hear a lot of talk about "standard" rates. It is important to know that claiming there is a mandatory or "regular" commission rate actually goes against the Competition Act in Canada. Every brokerage is free to set its own rates, and every seller is free to negotiate them.
The challenge for most homeowners is that negotiating with a traditional agent can feel like an uphill battle. You’re asking them to take a pay cut on a model that hasn’t changed in decades. But the world has changed. Technology has made marketing homes more efficient, and the high price of Edmonton real estate means that traditional percentage-based commissions have ballooned.
Why One Percent Realty’s Posted Commission Rates Make Sense
Instead of making you "haggle" for a fair deal, I offer transparency through One Percent Realty’s posted commission rates. We’ve modernized the way real estate works by providing a discount full-service model. This isn’t a "mere posting" or a "do-it-yourself" service. It is a full-service experience that includes everything you’d expect from a top-tier REALTOR®—just at a price that reflects today’s market reality.
Here is exactly how our commission structure works:
Homes under $400,000: We charge a flat fee of $7,950 + GST. This includes $3,500 that is offered to the Buyer’s agent.
Homes between $400,000 and $900,000: We charge a flat fee of $9,950 + GST. This includes $4,500 offered to the Buyer’s agent.
Homes over $900,000: We charge 1% of the sale price plus a $950 deal fee. This includes 0.5% offered to the Buyer's agent.
When you compare these rates to the traditional 7% on the first $100k and 3% on the balance, the savings are staggering. For a $500,000 home, you could be looking at savings of nearly $10,000. That’s money you could use for your next down payment, a well-deserved vacation, or renovations on your new place. To see a detailed breakdown of how this looks for your specific home value, I encourage you to visit dkeet.ca/1-derek-deal.html.
More Than Just Savings: The Derek Keet Advantage
Being a top REALTOR® in Edmonton isn’t just about having lower fees; it’s about providing superior value. When you work with me, you aren’t just getting a "discount"—you are getting an experienced professional who understands the Edmonton market inside and out. I bring over 20 years of personal and business experience in residential, commercial, and rural transactions to the table.
Selling a home is one of the biggest financial moves you’ll ever make. You need someone who is more than just a paper-pusher. You need a negotiator, a strategist, and a partner. Here is why homeowners consistently choose me to represent them:
1. Professional Resources
One of the most valuable things I offer is my network. Moving is a massive undertaking, and I’ve spent years vetting the best in the business. From property inspectors and mortgage brokers to movers and lawyers, I provide my clients with Professional Resources—a trusted network of referrals that ensures every phase of your transaction goes smoothly.
2. Full-Service Marketing
Some people worry that a discount commission means fewer "eyes" on their home. With me, that couldn't be further from the truth. Your home will be listed on the MLS® system, showcased on REALTOR.ca, and promoted through various digital channels. I handle the professional photos, the signage, the lockboxes, and the open houses. Most importantly, I am there to negotiate the best possible price for you when the offers start coming in.
3. Deep Local Knowledge
I don't just work in Edmonton; I live here and I love this city. Whether you are selling a family home in Wild Rose or looking for an investment property downtown, I understand the nuances of our local neighborhoods. This knowledge allows me to price your home accurately—ensuring it sells quickly without leaving money on the table.
How to Approach the "Negotiation" Conversation
If you are still considering other agents and want to try your hand at negotiating their fees, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Ask for a Breakdown: Ask the agent exactly what is included in their fee. If they aren't offering a robust ad spend, marketing plan or professional videos, their high commission might not be justified.
Mention Competition: Let them know you are interviewing other agents (like me) who offer full service at a much more competitive rate.
Look at the Net, Not the Gross: Traditional agents will often try to focus on the high sale price they might get you. But what really matters is the "net" amount—the money you actually walk away with after all fees and taxes are paid.
Check the Buyer's Agent Side: Remember that the total commission is usually split between the listing agent and the buyer's agent. If the agent is only mentioning the percentage they will receive, make sure to understand how much will be offered to the buyer’s agent.
While you can certainly try to negotiate with a traditional agent, many clients find it much simpler and more transparent to start with a REALTOR® who already has a fair, posted rate. By choosing me, you skip the awkward bargaining phase and move straight into the business of selling your home.
Why Edmonton Sellers are Switching to the One Percent Model
The Edmonton real estate market is vibrant and competitive. Homeowners here are savvy; they know the value of a dollar and they expect high-quality service. The reason I’ve been able to help so many "Happy Customers" is because the One Percent Realty model aligns with what people actually want: Expertise without the Extravagance.
When you visit dkeet.ca, you can see the testimonials and the "Sold" stories. These aren't just numbers; they are real families in Edmonton who saved thousands of dollars without sacrificing the quality of their REALTOR®.
Think about it this way: if you were buying a new car and two different dealerships offered the exact same vehicle, the same warranty, and the same service, but one was $10,000 cheaper—which one would you choose? Real estate should be no different. The MLS® system is the great equalizer; it's where the buyers are. If your home is priced right and marketed professionally, it will sell. That is why One Percent Realty sells over a billion dollars in real estate year after year. If someone tells you that your home wont be shown, then how can that statistic be possible? Paying an extra $10,000 or $20,000 in commission doesn't guarantee your home will sell for more; it just means you'll have less money when the deal is done.
The Link to Your Success
My goal is to be your lifelong real estate partner. Whether you are a first-time buyer looking to navigate the complexities of the Edmonton market or a seasoned seller looking to maximize your return, I am here to help. I pride myself on being reachable, honest, and hardworking. I treat every transaction as if it were my own, because I know that my success is entirely dependent on your satisfaction.
If you are ready to see how much you can save, or if you simply have more questions about how the process works, I invite you to explore my website at dkeet.ca. You can find answers to frequently asked questions, use our savings calculator, and get a better sense of why I am considered the top REALTOR® in Edmonton for those who value both their time and their money.
Negotiating REALTOR® fees in Canada isn't just possible—it's a smart financial move. And when you work with me, the "negotiation" is already done in your favor. Let’s get your home sold for the best price, with the best service, for a fee that actually makes sense.
Derek Keet | One Percent Realty
Edmonton REALTOR®
587-803-0396 https://linktr.ee/dkeet
Edmonton Real Estate Agent | Helping Homeowners Sell for Top Value
*Savings mentioned are compared with a broker charging 7% on the first $100,000 and 3% on the balance, plus GST. Not all brokers charge the same.
