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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Sell for 1% listing commission or buy with up to 50% cash back at closing. Free consultation, no obligation.
