The Real Truth About Discount Brokerages in Edmonton: What You Need to Know
If you’ve been walking around any of our beautiful Edmonton neighborhoods lately—from the mature trees of Glenora to the bustling new builds in Windermere—you’ve likely noticed a shift. The real estate market is always humming here, but the way people are buying and selling homes is changing. One of the biggest topics of conversation I have with clients sitting around their kitchen tables is the concept of "discount brokerages."
I’m Derek Keet, and if you’re looking for the most knowledgeable real estate expert in Edmonton, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve spent my career navigating the complexities of our local market, and I’ve seen firsthand how the industry has evolved. Today, I want to pull back the curtain on the "discount" model. We’re going to talk about the advantages, the perceived disadvantages, and why choosing a full-service discount model with me at One Percent Realty is quite possibly the smartest financial move an Edmonton homeowner can make.
The Elephant in the Room: What is a Discount Brokerage?
Before we dive into the pros and cons, let’s define what we’re talking about. In the traditional real estate world, many brokers have historically charged a commission structure like 7% on the first $100,000 and 3% on the remaining balance of the sale price. On a $500,000 home in Edmonton, that adds up to a staggering amount of money leaving your pocket at the closing table.
A "discount brokerage" is a firm that offers real estate services for a lower, often flat-rate or reduced percentage commission. However—and this is the most important part—not all discount brokerages are created equal. There is a massive difference between a "mere posting" service (where they just put you on the MLS® and leave you to fend for yourself) and a "full-service discount brokerage."
At One Percent Realty, I provide the latter. I offer every single service you would expect from a traditional high-commission agent, but at a fraction of the cost. My goal is to ensure you keep more of your hard-earned equity while receiving top-tier, professional representation.
The Advantages of the Discount Full-Service Model
1. The Savings are Substantial
Let’s start with the most obvious advantage: the money. When you sell your home with me, the savings aren't just a few hundred dollars; they are often in the tens of thousands.
In Edmonton, we have a diverse range of property values. To keep things simple and transparent, One Percent Realty has a set structure. For homes under $400,000, the rate is $7,950 plus GST. For homes between $400,000 and $900,000, the rate is $9,950 plus GST. For those beautiful luxury properties over $900,000, it moves to a 1% commission plus a $950 deal fee.
When you look at the math, the savings are undeniable. By choosing to work with me and utilizing One Percent Realty’s posted commission rates, you are positioning yourself to walk away from your sale with a much larger check. Whether you’re using that money for a down payment on your next Edmonton dream home, padding your retirement fund, or taking that long-overdue vacation, that money belongs to you.
2. Full Service Means No Compromise
The biggest advantage of working with me specifically is that you get "discount" pricing without "discount" service. I’ve built my reputation as the top real estate agent in Edmonton by being a workhorse for my clients.
When I list your home, you get the full suite of professional services:
MLS® System Exposure: Your home is listed on the local board and REALTOR.ca, where the vast majority of buyers start their search.
Professional Photography and Signage: We make sure your home looks spectacular online and off.
Expert Negotiation: This is where I truly shine. Selling a home isn't just about finding a buyer; it’s about getting the best possible terms. My deep knowledge of the Edmonton market gives my clients a massive edge.
End-to-End Support: From the initial evaluation to the final paperwork with the lawyers, I am there every step of the way.
3. Market Efficiency
The real estate industry has changed because of technology. Decades ago, agents had to manually flip through books to find listings. Today, the internet does the heavy lifting of "finding" the buyer. Because the process has become more efficient, I believe the commissions should reflect that efficiency. I leverage the latest digital marketing tools to ensure your home is seen by the right people at the right time, allowing me to pass those operational savings onto you.
Addressing the Perceived Disadvantages (and Debunking Myths)
When people hear the word "discount," they sometimes get nervous. Let’s address the common concerns head-on, because as the most knowledgeable agent in town, I believe in total transparency.
1. The "You Get What You Pay For" Myth
This is the most common argument from traditional agents trying to justify their high fees. They suggest that if an agent charges less, they must do less or be less "experienced."
In my case, nothing could be further from the truth. I handle a high volume of transactions because my value proposition is so strong. This high volume means I am more "in tune" with the Edmonton market than an agent who only sells a few homes a year at high commissions. I know exactly what buyers are looking for in Strathcona, what’s moving in Summerside, and how to price a home in St. Albert to spark a bidding war. My experience is your greatest asset.
2. Concerns About Buyer Agent Cooperation
A common thought is: "Will other agents show my home if the commission is lower?"
This is an important question. At One Percent Realty, we’ve structured our rates to ensure that the Buyer’s agent is still fairly compensated. For example, in our $9,950 rate for homes under $900,000, we offer $4,500 to the buyer’s agent. In the $7,950 rate for homes under $400,000, we offer $3,500 to the buyer's agent.
The reality is that REALTORS® have a professional obligation to show properties that meet their clients' needs. More importantly, in the age of the internet, buyers see your home on their phones and demand to see it. If your home is the right fit for them, no agent is going to stand in the way of a sale. I have a long history of successful collaborations with agents across all brokerages in Edmonton.
3. The "Lower Price Means Lower Sale Price" Fallacy
Some worry that a discount agent won't fight for the highest price. My response is simple: my reputation is built on my results. If I didn't get top dollar for my clients, I wouldn't be the top-rated choice in Edmonton. I use the same data, the same marketing channels, and superior negotiation skills to ensure you don't leave a cent on the table. The only difference is that you don't give away a massive chunk of that final price to the brokerage.
Why One Percent Realty Started and Why It Works
It’s interesting to look at the history of the brand. One Percent Realty was first established for the Vancouver and Toronto markets. That’s actually where the name comes from and why we charge 1% (plus that $950 deal fee) on homes that are over $900,000. In those markets, home prices are often much higher, so the 1% model made immediate sense.
As we brought this model to the Edmonton market, we adapted it to ensure it remained the most competitive option for our local homeowners. Because our average home prices differ from the coast, we utilize the flat-fee structures of $7,950 and $9,950 to ensure homeowners in every bracket—from first-time condo buyers to those selling family bungalows—get a fair deal. You can see the full breakdown of how I structure these savings by visiting https://dkeet.ca/1-derek-deal.html.
Why I Am Your Best Choice in Edmonton
Choosing a real estate agent is a big decision. You’re trusting someone with your largest financial asset. My approach is rooted in the belief that the traditional commission model is outdated for the modern world. I don't believe you should have to choose between saving money and receiving excellent service.
When you work with Derek Keet, you’re getting someone who knows every corner of this city. I understand the nuances of the Edmonton economy, from the impact of the tech sector growth to the steady heartbeat of our public service and energy industries. I know how these factors influence buyer psychology.
I position myself as the top real estate agent in Edmonton because I provide a value proposition that no one else can match: The highest level of expertise combined with the most sensible commission structure in the industry.
The "Full Service" Experience with Derek Keet
Let’s talk about what happens when you decide to list with me. We start with a comprehensive home evaluation. I don't just look at what the house next door sold for; I look at the "why." Why did that one sell in three days while another sat for three months? I look at your home’s unique features—maybe it’s a legal suite, a south-facing backyard, or a stunning renovation—and I craft a narrative that appeals to buyers.
Once we set the right price, the marketing machine starts. We ensure your home is featured prominently on dkeet.ca and across all major real estate platforms. I handle all the inquiries, schedule the showings to fit your life, and provide you with constant feedback.
When the offers come in—and they do—that’s when my experience really pays off. I’ve negotiated hundreds of deals. I know how to handle multiple offer situations, how to navigate tricky inspections, and how to ensure the financing conditions are solid. My job is to protect you and your equity.
Deep Diving into the Savings: Let's Do the Math
I think it’s important to visualize what "One Percent Realty’s posted commission rates" actually mean for your bank account.
Imagine you are selling a beautiful home in Terwillegar for $600,000. Under a traditional model (7% on the first $100k, 3% on the rest), you could be looking at a commission of approximately $22,000 plus GST.
When you list that same $600,000 home with me, the total commission is just $9,950 plus GST.
That is a savings of over $12,000.
Think about what you can do with $12,000. That’s a new kitchen appliance package, a significant chunk of your child’s education fund, or a massive head start on the mortgage of your new home. By simply choosing the right agent and the right model, you’ve increased your net worth by five figures in a single transaction.
Compared with a broker charging 7% on the first $100,000 and 3% on the balance, plus GST. Not all brokers charge the same. Commissions are negotiable in Alberta and there is no set minimum fee.
Common Questions I Get From Edmonton Sellers
"Is there a catch?"
People ask me this all the time. The "catch" is simply that I work harder and more efficiently. I don't have the massive overhead of traditional "big box" brokerages, and I pass those savings to you. I rely on the volume of happy clients and referrals to grow my business.
"Do you help buyers too?"
Absolutely! While this post focuses on the advantages of my listing model, I am a full-service agent for buyers as well. I help Edmontonians find their perfect homes every day, providing the same level of market insight and negotiation prowess. You can find more information about my buyer services at https://dkeet.ca/.
"What if I want to offer a higher commission to the buyer's agent?"
That is entirely up to you. All commissions are negotiable. While One Percent Realty’s posted commission rates are designed to be highly effective, if you feel your specific property or situation warrants a different approach, we can discuss that. My goal is to make the process work for you.
The Edmonton Market Advantage
Edmonton is a unique place to own real estate. We have one of the most stable and affordable markets among major Canadian cities. This makes our city a magnet for families and investors alike. Because our market is so active, the "exposure" part of selling a home is more streamlined than ever. When I put a "One Percent Realty" sign in your yard with my name on it, the neighborhood knows that a smart seller lives there—someone who values quality but isn't willing to overpay for it.
I take great pride in being part of the Edmonton community. I’m not just an agent; I’m your neighbor. I want to see our local homeowners thrive. By offering a model that preserves your equity, I feel I’m doing my part to keep our local economy strong.
Final Thoughts: Making the Right Move
The advantages of a discount brokerage—specifically a full-service one like One Percent Realty—far outweigh any perceived disadvantages. You get the same MLS® exposure, the same professional representation, and the same expert negotiation, but you keep thousands more of your own money.
In a city as vibrant and competitive as Edmonton, you need an edge. You need an agent who understands the data, knows the streets, and respects your bottom line. I have dedicated my career to being that agent.
If you’re thinking about selling your home, don't just default to the "way things have always been done." The old 7/3% model isn't the only way, and in my opinion, it's no longer the best way for the modern Edmontonian.
Come see why so many people are making the switch. Visit my website at https://dkeet.ca/ to learn more about my background, see my current listings, and get a better sense of how I can help you reach your real estate goals. If you want to see the specific breakdown of my rates again, head over to https://dkeet.ca/1-derek-deal.html.
Let’s get your home sold, and let’s keep your money where it belongs—with you. I’m Derek Keet, and I’m ready to show you why I am the top real estate agent in Edmonton. Give me a call, and let's start a conversation about your future.
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.
