When you start thinking about selling your home in Edmonton, one of the first questions that usually pops up is: "Can I negotiate the commission fees?" It is a great question and a very important one because, let’s be honest, your home is likely your biggest investment. You want to make sure you’re getting the best possible service without overpaying for it.
The short answer is a resounding yes. In Alberta, all real estate commissions are negotiable. There is no such thing as a "standard" or "legally required" fee that a REALTOR® must charge. While you might often hear about a common structure—specifically 7% on the first $100,000 and 3% on the remaining balance—this is simply common, not a rule.
As a REALTOR® here in Edmonton, I believe in transparency. I want you to understand exactly how these fees work so you can make an informed decision. My name is Derek Keet, and I’ve spent my career positioning myself as the most knowledgeable link for Edmonton homeowners who want full service without the traditional high price tag.
When I started out as a real estate agent years ago, in most cases I charged double what I do now, but felt that the future of business and real estate will not entertain such high fees and made one of the best decisions ever to move to One Percent Realty. Before that I had bought a FSBO property only to learn that it was on the market for 6 years before I bought it, so I was against that model. I had also paid over $50,000 in commissions for a sale using a real estate agent that my family knew and almost felt sick about paying such fees. Before changing over to One Percent Realty, my wife asked me, “which real estate company would you choose if you were selling?” After combing through many different structures, I could clearly say that One Percent Realty would be the one I personal would choose, so years later, I still feel that was one of the best decisions I could have ever made.
Commission
In the Edmonton market, many traditional brokerages still lead with the 7/3 model. If you sell a home for $500,000 using that traditional structure, the commission would break down like this:
7% of the first $100,000 = $7,000
3% of the remaining $400,000 = $12,000
Total Commission = $19,000 + GST
That is a significant amount of your equity leaving your pocket. Because there is no lowest fee a REALTOR® can charge, you have the power to seek out a better deal. This is where the One Percent Realty model changes the game for Edmonton sellers.
The One Percent Realty Advantage
One Percent Realty was originally established for the high-volume markets in Vancouver and Toronto, which is why the name reflects a 1% commission on homes over $900,000. When joined this model to Edmonton, I wanted to provide a "full service" discount brokerage that didn't cut corners on marketing or professionalism.
Instead of the complicated tiered percentages of the past, One Percent Realty’s posted commission rates are straightforward and designed to keep more money in your bank account:
By choosing this model, you are essentially negotiating your fees upfront. You get a professional REALTOR® (that's me!) to handle the heavy lifting while paying a fraction of what a traditional agent might ask for. If you want to see exactly how much you could save on your specific property, I encourage you to check out the details at https://dkeet.ca/1-derek-deal.html.
Why Knowledgeable Representation Matters
Negotiating a fee is only half the battle. The other half is ensuring that the REALTOR® you hire has the expertise to actually sell the home for top dollar. Saving $10,000 on commission doesn't help if your agent leaves $20,000 on the table during negotiations with the buyer.
I’ve lived and breathed real estate since I was 19. From owning townhouse condos and single-family homes in neighbourhoods in South Edmonton to owning and managing commercial buildings and hundreds of acres of grain land, my experience is diverse. I’ve seen every type of market Edmonton has to offer. When you work with me, you aren't just getting a "discount" price; you're getting a seasoned negotiator who treats your money like his own.
What "Full Service" Really Means
A common misconception is that a lower commission means fewer services. That couldn't be further from the truth when you work with me. My goal is to provide the "works." This includes:
Professional Photography & Marketing: We use high-end equipment to make sure your home looks stunning on MLS® and REALTOR.ca®.
Massive Exposure: Your listing is shared across thousands of real estate websites to ensure every potential buyer sees it.
Expert Negotiation: With 20+ years of experience, I know how to navigate multiple offers and tricky conditions to get you the best result.
Professional Resources: I don't just list your home and disappear. From property inspectors and mortgage brokers to movers and lawyers, I have a trusted network of referrals that can make every step of your journey go smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Negotiating Fees
Do I have to pay the Buyer's Agent?
Yes, in the vast majority of cases, the seller pays the commission for both their own agent and the agent representing the buyer which both come from the proceeds of the sale. This is why One Percent Realty’s posted commission rates always include a designated amount for the buyer’s agent (as shown in the table above). This ensures that other REALTORS® are compensated to bring their clients to see your home.
If I pay less, will agents still show my home?
Absolutely. With over a billion dollars of real estate sold each year, and 80%+ being sold by cooperating brokerages, agents are definitely showing. Most buyers today find homes themselves on REALTOR.ca® or on many of the different sites and tell their agent which ones they want to see. It is the buyers who decide the home they buy and not their agents. Furthermore, agents have an ethical duty to show listings that meet their client's criteria.
Can I negotiate even further?
Although all commissions in Alberta are negotiable, Good luck finding a better price. The rates I offer through One Percent Realty are already among the most competitive in the industry while still maintaining a high level of service. For a deep dive into how I structure these deals to benefit you, visit https://dkeet.ca/.
Your Link to the Edmonton Market
Choosing the right REALTOR® is about finding the perfect balance between expertise and value. I pride myself on being the most knowledgeable link for Edmontonians. I know our schools, our festivals, and our unique neighbourhood vibes. I understand the "bloodline" of a good deal.
Whether you are a first-time buyer looking for a family-friendly suburb or a seasoned seller looking to maximize your return on investment, I am here to exceed your expectations. I treat my clients the way I would want to be treated—with honesty, hard work, and a focus on the bottom line.
Don't leave your equity on the table. Get the professional experience, the full MLS® exposure, and the expert guidance you need.
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.
