When you’re buying or selling a home, it’s natural to look for ways to save money. After all, real estate commissions can seem like a significant expense. That’s why discount real estate agents have become increasingly popular—they promise lower fees and “the same service for less.”
But here’s the question nobody’s asking: What are you really saving?
At Katie Burke Homes, I’ve seen firsthand what happens when sellers choose the discount route. And more often than not, the “savings” on commission pale in comparison to what they lose in the sale price, timeline, and overall experience.
The Hidden Costs of Going Discount
1. Lower Sale Price
Discount agents often handle dozens of listings at once because they need volume to make up for their reduced commissions. This means:
- Less time spent on strategic pricing
- Minimal staging guidance or professional photography
- Cookie-cutter marketing that doesn’t showcase your home’s unique value
The result? Homes that sit on the market longer and ultimately sell for less. A study by Real Trends found that homes listed with full-service agents sold for an average of $40,000 more than those listed with discount brokers. That’s a lot more than you’d save on commission.
2. Weak Negotiation
Real estate negotiations are an art form. When multiple offers come in—or when a buyer tries to chip away at your price after inspection—you need someone in your corner who knows how to fight for every dollar.
Discount agents simply don’t have the time or incentive to negotiate aggressively on your behalf. They’re focused on closing deals quickly, not maximizing your return.
3. Limited Availability
When issues arise (and they always do), you need an agent who picks up the phone. Discount agents juggling 30+ listings can’t provide the personalized attention you deserve. Missed calls, delayed responses, and dropped balls can cost you deals—or worse, create legal headaches.
4. Bare-Bones Marketing
Your home deserves more than a few smartphone photos and a basic MLS listing. Professional marketing includes:
- High-quality photography and videography
- Targeted social media campaigns
- Email marketing to qualified buyers
- Open houses and private showings
- Print materials and premium listing placement
Discount agents cut corners here because quality marketing costs money. But without it, your home won’t stand out in a competitive market.
What Full-Service Really Means
At Katie Burke Homes, “full-service” isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a commitment. Here’s what you get when you work with me:
Personalized Strategy: Every home is different, and every seller has unique goals. I take the time to understand your situation and create a customized plan to get you the best possible outcome.
Professional Marketing: From stunning photography to strategic online advertising, I invest in making your home shine. Your listing will look like the premium property it is.
Expert Negotiation: I’ve negotiated hundreds of deals, and I know how to get you top dollar while keeping the transaction smooth. Your interests always come first.
White-Glove Service: You’ll have my direct number, and I’ll be there every step of the way—from listing to closing and beyond. No question is too small, no concern too trivial.
Proven Results: My clients consistently sell for more, in less time, with less stress. That’s not luck—it’s the power of experience, dedication, and doing things right.
The Math That Matters
Let’s say you’re selling a $500,000 home. A discount agent might charge 4% commission ($20,000) instead of the standard 5-6% ($25,000-$30,000).
Sounds like a $5,000-$10,000 savings, right?
But what if that discount agent’s limited marketing and weak negotiation cost you $30,000 in sale price? What if your home sits on the market for an extra two months, costing you mortgage payments, utilities, and stress?
Suddenly, that “discount” becomes very expensive.
You Deserve Better
Selling your home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. You deserve an agent who treats it that way—someone who sees you as a person, not a transaction number.
At Katie Burke Homes, I believe in doing right by my clients. That means honest advice, tireless advocacy, and a commitment to getting you the best possible result. Not because it’s easy, but because it’s what you deserve.
Ready to experience the difference full-service makes? Let’s talk about your goals and how I can help you achieve them. Contact Katie Burke Homes today—because your home deserves more than a discount.
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