How Much Does a Real Estate Agent Cost in Ontario in 2026?

Real estate commission in Ontario isn't regulated — it's negotiable. But most sellers don't know this, and most agents don't volunteer it. Here's exactly what you pay and how to think about it.

The traditional commission structure

In Ontario, the standard total commission is typically 4% to 5% of the sale price. On an $800,000 home at 5%, that's $40,000 plus HST. The listing agent typically takes 2% to 2.5%. The buyer's agent gets the other 2% to 2.5%. The seller pays both.

What's changed in 2026

The traditional commission model is under growing pressure. Since the NAR settlement in the US and rising consumer awareness in Canada, more sellers are asking hard questions about whether 2.5% listing commission is justified. In most cases, it isn't.

The 1% alternative

At onepercentsold.ca, the listing commission is 1%. On an $800,000 home, that's $8,000 vs. $20,000 at 2.5% — a saving of $12,000. Full MLS, full service, no trade-offs.

The bottom line

Total cost to sell an $800,000 home: traditional agent = $32,000-$40,000. With onepercentsold.ca = $24,000-$28,000. The difference is real money that stays with you at closing.