Real Estate Commissions in Durham Region

Are you planning to sell your home or condo?

The sales process involves many moving parts. One question that consumers ask about is the commission rate. Commission rates are negotiable. No law, group or real estate board sets them.

At LowerCommissions.ca, you can list your home on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) for as little as 3% total commission (conditions apply), plus the applicable HST. That great rate includes the commission paid to the buyer's agent. Why? Because we realize that every seller has different needs. That ‘s why we offer several packages at different rates, and extra discounts, so you only pay for the services you need.

How Commission Works

Most transactions involve two real estate brokerages. The listing brokerage works for the seller, and the buyer's brokerage works for the buyer. As a seller, you pay the commission which covers the work of both your listing brokerage, and the buyer’s brokerage.

When you sign your listing agreement, you decide how that total is split. The listing end covers us for marketing and handing all aspects related to selling your home. A portion of the commission is offered to the buyer's brokerage, and it is clearly shown on the MLS listing, typically as a percentage.

Is HST Charged on Commission?

Yes. HST of 13% is added to the commission, because this is a taxable service. All brokerages must charge it. When a transaction closes, your lawyer pays the commission amount, including the HST to the listing brokerage and it is the responsibility of the listing brokerage to pay the cooperating brokerage.

How Much Could You Save?

Here's a simple example on an $800,000 sale:

• At 3%, the commission is $24,000 plus HST.

• At 4%, the commission is $32,000 plus HST.

• At 5%, the commission is $40,000 plus HST.

At 3%, you keep $16,000 more than you would at a rate of 5% (before HST).

How to Get to 3%

We offer three packages; each offers services that you may or may not require. Our lowest price service starts at 4%, but we offer discounts.

• We find your buyer. If the buyer of your home also works with us, your rate is reduced by 0.5%. When we act for both sides, we tell you at the earliest possible opportunity and obtain your written approval, as required by the laws in Ontario (TRESA).

• You buy your next home with us. If you purchase your next home or condo with us simultaneously, then your commission rate is reduced by 0.5%.

What's Servies are Included if I list with lowercommissions.ca?

We service sellers in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Brooklin, Oshawa, Port Perry, Courtice and Bowmanville (Clarington).

Every package includes the essentials:

• Pre-listing advice, with tips to help your home sell for more

• A market value analysis of your home

• Professional photos

• MLS listing and exposure on Realtor.ca

• Regular updates while your home is for sale

• Offer negotiations; we work in your best interests

• Help finding you the next house or condo

Want more? Sellers can choose extras like 3D video tours, digital floorplans, staging and open houses, plus many more extras are available in our other packages. You’ll never pay for things you don't want; you get to choose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a lower commission mean less service?

No. You're always represented by an experienced broker who lists your home on MLS and works with you until it's sold. Our packages simply let you choose the marketing items you want.

Do I have to offer a commission to the buyer's brokerage?

Yes. Every MLS listing shows an amount offered to the buyer's brokerage. You choose that amount when you sign your listing, and we'll help you decide what makes sense for your home.

When do I pay the commission?

It’s paid to us when your sale closes. On closing, your lawyer handles all the funds, and they pay us after the transaction closes. You don't pay anything out of pocket in advance. Exceptions could be applicable to cover expenses for an early cancellation or expensive staging.

Do I have to do any of the work myself to save money?

No. We handle everything that matters: fact based guidance on pricing, photos, marketing, showings, offers and paperwork. You get full service at a lower rate.

Who handles showings and offers?

Showings are booked through the MLS showing system, and you approve each one by responding to a text message or an email. When an offer comes in, we present it to you, explain your options and give you our professional advice. Then we negotiate for the result you want. It's your home, so the final call is always yours.

Is HST included in the 3%?

No. HST of 13% is added to all real estate commissions in Ontario. For example, on an $800,000 sale at 3%, HST adds $3,120.

Are there other costs when I sell?

Yes. Legal fees, mortgage discharge fees or penalties could be applicable, and these are separate from a real estate commission. Your lawyer and lender can provide you with those numbers.

Can you help me buy before I sell?

Yes. Many people like to find their next home before they list. That can work well, provided there is a plan in place, we have strategies which we can share. We'll help you buy and sell, and keep both moves on track. Plus, as a bonus, buying with us lowers the rate of the selling commission.

Let's Talk About Your Move

Selling is about so much more than your current home. It's also about where you're going next and what you'll spend to get there. It can be complicated, but we are here to help you navigate and we will coordinate the process. That’s where our experience really helps.

If you are ready to take the next step, fill out the form and we'll reach out for a friendly chat about your plans and how much you could save.