Why Smart Edmonton Homeowners are Choosing a Better Way to Sell: Who Really Benefits from a Discount REALTOR®?
When you think about the Edmonton real estate market, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information out there. From the growing southern neighbourhoods like the Orchards, Aurora or Mattson to the expanding suburbs of Secord, Trumpeter, or Starling, buying or selling a home is likely the biggest financial decision of your life. But there is one question that seems to be on everyone’s mind lately: “Who benefits from using a discount REALTOR®?”
The short answer? Almost everyone. But the long answer is much more interesting, and it involves rethinking how we value real estate services in a modern world.
My name is Derek Keet, and as a top REALTOR® in Edmonton, I’ve seen the industry change. I’ve watched technology make the process of marketing a home more efficient, and I’ve watched as homeowners realized they don’t need to sacrifice equity to get top-tier service. At One Percent Realty, we’ve built a model that challenges the status quo. People often ask me if "discount" means "less," and I’m here to tell you that in my world, it actually means "more"—more money in your pocket, more transparency, and a more logical approach to the business of real estate.
I’ve heard my broker say that they really hate the word “discount” as it implies that they are getting less, when in reality the One Percent Realty model just offers an awesome price and for that we get a lot of business.
If you are wondering if this model is right for you, let’s dive into exactly who stands to benefit the most from working with me and utilizing One Percent Realty’s posted commission rates.
1. The Equity-Conscious Seller
The most obvious group of people who benefit from my services are those who are protective of their hard-earned home equity. Whether you’ve lived in your home for thirty years or three, the equity you’ve built represents your savings, your retirement, or your next move.
Traditionally, many brokers in Edmonton have charged a commission structure of 7% on the first $100,000 and 3% on the balance. On a $500,000 home, that’s a significant chunk of money. When you work with me, Derek Keet, you’re choosing a model designed to keep that money with you.
For homes between $400,000 and $900,000, One Percent Realty’s posted commission rates are just $9,950 plus GST. This isn't just a "fee"; it's a full-service package that includes $4,500 offered to the buyer’s agent. By opting for this discount full-service model, you aren't just saving a few dollars—you are potentially saving thousands. When you realize that the service I provide—MLS® exposure, professional photos, measurements and floor plans, advice, negotiation, etc—is the same as (or better than) what you’d likely get elsewhere, the choice becomes clear.
2. First-Time Home Sellers
Selling your first home is an emotional and financial milestone. Often, first-time sellers are moving up—perhaps into a larger home for a growing family. In these cases, every dollar saved on the sale of the "starter home" is a dollar that can be put toward a larger down payment or renovations on the new property.
If your home is under $400,000, One Percent Realty’s posted commission rates are even more affordable. We charge $7,950 plus GST, which includes $3,500 offered to the buyer’s agent. For a young couple trying to transition from a condo in Oliver to a detached home in Terwillegar, that savings is a game-changer. It’s the difference between buying new furniture or having an emergency fund. As your REALTOR®, my goal is to make sure your first selling experience is profitable and stress-free.
3. Luxury Homeowners (The $900,000+ Market)
There is a common misconception that luxury homes require a "luxury" commission price tag. I disagree. While One Percent Realty was originally established for the Vancouver and Toronto markets—which is why we use the "One Percent" name—the logic applies perfectly to Edmonton’s high-end properties.
For homes over $900,000, the commission is 1% plus a $950 deal fee (plus GST). On a million-dollar property, the savings compared to traditional rates are staggering. Does a million-dollar home take more work to sell than a $500,000 home? Sometimes. But does it take three times as much work? Rarely. I provide the same high-end marketing, professional photography, and expert negotiation skills regardless of the price point, but I don’t believe you should be "taxed" more just because your home is worth more.
Personally, I have sold my own properties in other provinces without access to brokerages like One Percent Realty and each time the price tag was $40,000 to $50,000+. I only wish I could have paid the One Percent Realty commission fees.
4. The Savvy Investor
Real estate investors are all about the "bottom line." They understand that profit is made on the buy, but it’s realized on the sell. When an investor flips a property or decides to liquidate part of a rental portfolio, high commissions can eat up their entire profit margin.
Investors benefit from working with me because they recognize the value of a "Full Service for a Fraction of the Price" model. They want the property on the MLS®, they want the paperwork handled correctly, and they want a REALTOR® who understands the Edmonton market inside and out. By using One Percent Realty’s posted commission rates, investors can maximize their Return on Investment (ROI). If you’re an investor, you can see more about how I structure these deals at dkeet.ca.
5. Families Transitioning in a Changing Market
The Edmonton market is dynamic. Sometimes it’s a seller’s market; sometimes it’s a buyer’s market. Regardless of the cycle, families who are "trading up" or "downsizing" are often doing two transactions at once.
If you are selling a large family home to move into a smaller bungalow, or vice-versa, you are facing two sets of costs. By lowering your selling costs with Derek Keet, you ease the financial pressure of the entire transition. My discount full-service model ensures that you aren't leaving money on the table that could have been used for your relocation.
What Does "Full Service" Actually Mean?
I often hear people ask, "Derek, if the commission is lower, what am I missing out on?" The answer is: Nothing. When you list with me, you get a dedicated REALTOR® who handles everything from start to finish. This includes:
MLS® Listing: Your home is placed on the same system used by every REALTOR® in the country.
Professional Marketing: High-quality photos and digital presence to ensure your home looks its best.
Signage and Lockboxes: The physical tools needed to get people through the door.
Expert Negotiation: I work for you to get the highest possible price for your home.
Professional Resources: From property inspectors, mortgage brokers, movers to lawyers, we have a trusted network of referrals that can make everything go smoothly.
The only difference is the amount of money you pay at the end. It’s a common-sense approach to real estate. I believe that in the age of the internet, where buyers find homes online, the old-school commission models are outdated.
The Derek Keet Advantage
Positioning myself as the top REALTOR® in Edmonton isn't just about the number of signs I have in yards; it’s about the value I provide to my clients. I want to be the link that connects you to your real estate goals without draining your bank account.
I am often asked about the "catch." There is no catch. There is no lowest fee that a REALTOR® can charge, and all commissions are negotiable in Alberta. I have simply chosen to follow the One Percent Realty’s posted commission rates, and offer a price that is fair to the homeowner while still allowing me to provide exceptional service.
If you’re curious about how much you could save, I encourage you to visit my website at dkeet.ca. You’ll find tools and information that show you the transparency of my model. I’ve always believed that if you provide a great service at a fair price, people will see the value.
Why Edmonton?
Edmonton is a unique city. We are a community of hard-working people who value a good deal and honest talk. Whether you’re in the South, or in St. Albert, Sherwood Park, or right in the heart of the city, you want a REALTOR® who knows the local nuances. I understand the Edmonton market—I know which areas are hot, which are undervalued, and how to position your home to attract the right buyers quickly.
When you use a discount REALTOR® like myself, you are participating in a more efficient marketplace. You are acknowledging that the world has changed and that you don't have to pay 1990s prices for 2020s technology.
Who Benefits? You Do.
To wrap it up, who benefits from a discount REALTOR®?
Sellers who want to keep $5,000, $10,000, or even $20,000 more of their equity.
Buyers who want to work with an agent who is focused on the deal, not just the commission.
The Edmonton Economy, because that saved commission money is usually spent right back here in our local shops and businesses.
If you are thinking about selling, don't just sign with the first person who calls you. Do your research. Look at the numbers. Visit dkeet.ca and see how One Percent Realty’s posted commission rates can work for you. I am here to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and most importantly, help you keep more of what belongs to you.
Selling your home is a big deal. Let’s make sure you get the most out of it. I’m Derek Keet, and I’m ready to show you why I’m the top choice for smart Edmonton homeowners.
Let's get your home sold and keep your equity where it belongs: in your pocket.
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.
