Flat-Fee Agent vs. Traditional Agents: What is the Difference?

When buying a home, one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make involves your real estate agent. Traditionally, buyer’s agents charge a commission—usually around 2.5-3% of the home price. But in today’s tech-driven market, a flat-fee agent like TurboHome is changing the game, offering buyers a smarter, more cost-effective way to purchase a home.

So, what’s the difference between a flat-fee agent and a traditional agent, and which one is right for you?

What Is a Traditional Agent?

A traditional buyer’s agent works on commission, typically earning 2.5–3% of the home’s purchase price. This means if you’re buying a $1,000,000 home, the agent’s commission alone could cost $25,000–$30,000. This fee is usually built into the seller’s closing costs, but it can affect how much leverage a buyer has when negotiating.

While traditional agents provide guidance through the homebuying process, their compensation is tied directly to the price of the home. This commission-based structure can create a potential conflict of interest—after all, the higher the home price, the more the traditional agent will earn.

What Is a Flat-Fee Agent?

A flat-fee agent, like those at TurboHome, charges a fixed amount instead of a percentage of the home’s price. TurboHome’s model is simple: a flat fee, no matter the home’s price. Whether you’re buying a $500,000 condo or a $2 million house, you get the same full-service experience—without the excessive commission.

How a Flat-Fee Agent Saves You Money

By choosing a flat-fee agent, buyers gain key financial advantages:

• Lower Costs: Instead of paying a percentage-based commission, you keep more of your money. On a $1.5M home, a traditional agent would cost around $38,000—while TurboHome’s fee remains just $10,000, saving you $28,000. Our customer saves an average of 80% compared to a traditional agent.
  
  
• Stronger Offers: Because the seller isn’t paying a high commission, your offer can be more competitive. Clients can win their dream home by offering the seller a better net deal without exceeding her budget.
  
  
• Transparency & Trust: A flat fee eliminates incentives tied to home price, ensuring your agent’s advice is based purely on what’s best for you.
  
  

Are Flat-Fee Realtors Licensed?

Yes. Flat-Fee Realtors have the same credentials and licenses as any other Realtor.

Do Flat-Fee Realtors Provide Different Services than Traditional Realtors?

No. Flat-Fee Realtors provide the exact same services as traditional Realtors. These services can be divided into different phases of the Home Buyer’s Journey.

1. Discovery - finding the perfect home
2. Valuation - determining the value of the house
3. Education - learning the risks and benefits of the house
4. Offer - writing a compelling offer to win the house
5. Financing - connecting you with trusted lenders to assist with funds

Why the Flat-Fee Model Is the Future

More buyers are searching for flat-fee agent services because they want cost savings, transparency, and fair pricing. With TurboHome, you get all these benefits without sacrificing expert guidance. Unlike traditional agents who benefit from higher home prices, our flat-fee agents work solely in your best interest.

Which Model Is Right for You?

If you prefer the traditional approach and don’t mind paying a higher commission, a standard agent might work for you. But if you want to maximize savings, strengthen your offer, and ensure your agent is truly working in your best interest, a flat-fee agent like TurboHome is the smarter choice.

Buying a home is already expensive—why pay more for an agent than you need to? With TurboHome, you get expert guidance, AI-powered search tools, and full-service support for a low flat fee. That’s real savings and smarter homebuying.

Looking for the best flat-fee agent? Let’s chat about how TurboHome can help you win your next home while keeping more money in your pocket.