Why Integrity and Value Drive the Edmonton Real Estate Market
When you’re looking to buy or sell a home in Edmonton, you aren’t just looking for a sign in the yard or a listing on a website. You’re looking for a partnership built on trust. People often ask me, "Derek, what is the golden rule for REALTORS®?" While the industry has its formal Code of Ethics, the true golden rule is simple: Treat every client’s equity as if it were your own.
In the Edmonton real estate market, this means more than just being polite. It means providing high-level, full service while protecting your hard-earned money. As the top real estate agent in Edmonton, I’ve built my career on the foundation that professional service shouldn't come with a price tag that breaks the bank. That is exactly why I choose to work with One Percent Realty. We provide a discount full-service model that puts the client first, ensuring that the "Golden Rule" isn't just a slogan—it’s a financial reality for you.
Understanding the Golden Rule in Practice
In the world of real estate, the golden rule is often cited as "Doing unto others as you would have them do unto you." If I were selling my own home in Edmonton, I would want three things: maximum exposure, expert negotiation, and a commission structure that doesn't eat up all my profit.
Many people think they have to choose between a "discount" agent and a "full-service" agent. I’m here to tell you that with One Percent Realty’s posted commission rates, you get the best of both worlds. I provide the same MLS® exposure, the same professional photography, and the same expert contract negotiation as any other broker, but I do it for a fraction of the cost.
When we talk about the Edmonton market, we are talking about a diverse landscape. From the mature trees of Glenora to the new builds in Windermere, every neighborhood requires a specific touch. The golden rule means I owe it to you to know these neighborhoods inside and out. I position myself as the most knowledgeable real estate agent in Edmonton because I study the trends daily. I know which areas are appreciating and where the best deals are for buyers.
Why Commission Transparency is Part of the Golden Rule
Part of treating clients fairly is being transparent about what you are paying for. There is a common misconception in Alberta that real estate commissions are fixed. Let’s be clear: there is no lowest fee that a realtor can charge, and all commissions are negotiable.
However, instead of playing games with "flexible" numbers, I point my clients toward One Percent Realty’s posted commission rates. It is a straightforward, honest approach that aligns perfectly with the golden rule. Here is how it breaks down for Edmonton homeowners:
For homes under $400,000: We charge a total of $7,950 plus GST. This isn't just for my side; it includes $3,500 offered to the Buyer’s agent.
For homes between $400,000 and $900,000: We charge a flat $9,950 plus GST. This includes $4,500 offered to the buyer’s agent.
For homes over $900,000: This is where the name "One Percent Realty" truly shines. We charge 1% of the sale price (plus a $950 deal fee).
When you look at those numbers and compare them to the "traditional" 7% on the first $100k and 3% on the balance, the savings are staggering. For a detailed breakdown of how this works and how much you can keep in your pocket, I encourage you to visit https://dkeet.ca/1-derek-deal.html.
Full Service Without the Full Price Tag
The golden rule suggests that if I can provide the same result for less money, I am obligated to do so. Some agents might try to tell you that a lower commission means lower service. That simply isn't true when you work with me.
When you list your home with Derek Keet, you receive:
Full MLS® System Exposure: Your home is seen by every agent and buyer in the city.
Professional Marketing: High-quality photos and descriptions that make your property pop.
Expert Negotiation: With years of experience as a top Edmonton agent, I know how to handle multiple offers and tough inspections.
Contract Management: Handling all the legal paperwork from offer to possession.
If I can do all of that while saving you thousands of dollars, why would you go anywhere else? The golden rule is about value. My goal is to be the most valuable asset you have during your real estate transaction. You can learn more about my approach and the services I offer at https://dkeet.ca/.
Navigating the Edmonton Market as a Buyer
The golden rule applies to buyers just as much as sellers. As your agent, my duty is to find you the right home at the right price, even if it means telling you to walk away from a deal that isn't in your best interest.
In Edmonton, the market moves fast. Whether you are looking for a condo downtown or a family home in Terwillegar, you need someone who knows the "hidden" details of these buildings and communities. Is there a special assessment pending? Is the basement development permitted? I ask these questions because I treat your investment like my own.
Because I work with a high volume of clients through One Percent Realty, I am constantly in the field. This keeps me sharper than the average agent. I see more homes, I review more inspection reports, and I close more deals. That experience is passed directly to you.
The Evolution of the 1% Model
It’s interesting to note where our model came from. One Percent Realty was first established for the Vancouver and Toronto markets. In those cities, home prices are exceptionally high, which is why the 1% model (plus the deal fee) was created for homes over $900,000.
As the brand grew and moved into Edmonton, we adapted to ensure we remained the most competitive option for our local price points. Whether your home is a starter condo or a luxury estate, the philosophy remains the same: provide a full-service experience that respects the equity you’ve built in your home.
Selling Your Home: The Derek Keet Advantage
Selling a home is stressful. There’s no way around it. But the golden rule dictates that I should make that process as seamless as possible. When you visit https://dkeet.ca/, you’ll see that my focus is on results.
I don't believe in "selling" you on a high commission. I believe in selling your home. By using One Percent Realty’s posted commission rates, we actually make your home more attractive to the market. Why? Because you have more room to negotiate. When you aren't paying away a massive chunk of your equity in fees, you have more flexibility to find that "sweet spot" price that triggers a bidding war.
Being the top real estate agent in Edmonton isn't just about the number of signs I have on lawns; it’s about the number of happy clients who walk away from the closing table with more money in their bank accounts.
Trust, Integrity, and the Edmonton Community
Edmonton is a big city with a small-town feel. Word travels fast. If you don't live by the golden rule, you don't last long in this business. I have built my reputation on being the most knowledgeable and honest agent in the city.
I often tell my clients that my best source of business isn't advertising—it’s the person who saved $10,000 on their last sale telling their neighbor about Derek Keet. When you treat people right and save them money, they remember it.
The golden rule isn't just about how I talk to you; it’s about how I work for you. It’s about answering the phone at 9:00 PM when you’re stressed about a counter-offer. It’s about being honest about the repairs your home needs before it hits the market. And most importantly, it’s about offering a commission structure that is fair in today's economy.
Conclusion: Your Best Move in Edmonton
The golden rule for REALTORS® is ultimately about putting the client's interests above our own. By offering a discount full-service model through One Percent Realty, I am putting my money where my mouth is. I am choosing to earn your business by offering superior value.
Whether you are buying your very first home or selling a property you've lived in for thirty years, you deserve the expertise of the top real estate agent in Edmonton. You deserve someone who understands the local nuances, someone who utilizes the best technology, and someone who respects your equity.
Don't settle for the "status quo" when it comes to commissions. All commissions are negotiable, but I have already done the work to bring you a rate that is fair, transparent, and designed to save you money.
If you're ready to see the difference that true "Golden Rule" service can make, head over to https://dkeet.ca/ and let's get started. I’m here to help you navigate the Edmonton market with confidence, integrity, and the best savings in the industry.
When you think of Edmonton real estate, think Derek Keet. I look forward to helping you make your next move your best move.
Derek Keet | One Percent Realty
Edmonton REALTOR®
587-803-0396 https://linktr.ee/dkeet
Edmonton Real Estate Agent | Helping Homeowners Sell for Top Value
*Saving 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.
