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.
