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MythBusters: “They are a Discount Broker, So They Offer Poor Service”
This one’s easy. Unlike our last myth, “No one will show your house if you don’t pay buyer agent compensation”—which, unfortunately, still happens in practice, today’s myth is flat-out false.
Let’s dig in.
Stop Calling Them “Discount Brokers”
The term “discount broker” carries baggage, so let’s use a better phrase: full-service, fair-priced broker. Some also say “full service, reduced cost” broker. Whatever the label, the point is clear—these brokers provide the same core services as traditional agents, but they charge less.
And that’s a good thing.
What You Should Expect from a Fair-Priced Broker
Not all brokers are equal, so make sure the one you’re considering truly delivers full service. At a minimum, you should expect:
- Professional photography
- MLS listing exposure
Additional services you may want (or need) include:
- 3D tours
- Preparation and management of transaction documents
- Agent assistance throughout the process
- A showing agent if you’re selling from outside the area
Pro tip: Ask upfront about pricing and hidden fees. The best brokers are transparent.
How to Vet a Broker
Before signing, do your homework:
- Talk directly with the broker/agent—are they professional, approachable, and someone you’d trust to represent you?
- Ask about their experience—years in the business, whether they’re full-time, and what they know about your market.
- Listen closely when you ask about buyer agent compensation. Their response will reveal how consumer-friendly they truly are. Watch for red flags like “seller steering.”
Bottom line: due diligence pays off. Ask tough questions before you sign.
ShopProp: An Example of a Full-Service, Fair-Priced Broker
One of our Founders will be speaking with ShopProp about this very topic. In the meantime, we want to share how they describe their model in their own words, because we think it sums up the myth-busting truth perfectly:
Do your low fees mean less service?
Not at all! We provide the same comprehensive services as traditional agents, including professional photography (paid by seller), staging (paid by seller), marketing, showings, negotiation, and closing support.
How does ShopProp compare to discount brokers?
Unlike many discount brokers, we offer full-service support. We don’t cut corners on service; we simply operate more efficiently to provide you with significant savings.
The Takeaway
Don’t fall for the myth that fair-priced brokers deliver “poor service.” The truth is that many full-service, fair-priced brokers provide everything traditional agents do, and sometimes more, while helping you save thousands.
As with anything, the key is doing your research, asking the right questions, and making sure the broker you choose is transparent, experienced, and consumer-first. We recommend interviewing multiple brokers.
With the right broker, you don’t sacrifice service—you gain both value and savings, and potentially the strategic advantage of being priced less than your competition.
