If you’re a homeowner in Alabama looking to sell your house, you might be wondering if there’s a way to avoid paying realtor fees. The good news is—yes, there is. Selling your home without an agent is completely legal and often referred to as “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO). In some cases, especially when working with direct home buyers, you can skip the entire listing process and sell quickly without paying any commission at all.
Here’s what you need to know.
What Are Realtor Fees?
In a traditional home sale, the seller usually pays both the listing agent and the buyer’s agent. This typically amounts to around 5–6% of the home’s sale price. On a $200,000 home, that could be $10,000–$12,000—money that comes directly out of your proceeds.
Avoiding realtor fees means more cash in your pocket at closing. But it also means you’ll need to handle more of the process yourself—or find someone who can help without charging commission.
Option 1: Sell Your Home FSBO (For Sale By Owner)
Selling FSBO means you handle everything:
- Pricing the home
- Marketing (photos, signs, online listings)
- Scheduling and managing showings
- Negotiating with buyers
- Handling contracts and closing paperwork
While you save on commission, it does require time, effort, and some knowledge of real estate laws in Alabama.
Option 2: Sell to a Local Real Estate Investor
This is one of the simplest ways to avoid realtor fees. Investors like Morgan Matney Home Buyers purchase houses directly from homeowners, often in as-is condition. That means:
- No agent commissions
- No repairs or cleaning
- No showings
- No waiting for financing
You get a straightforward cash offer and a flexible closing timeline. Many sellers choose this route to avoid the hassle and uncertainty of the traditional market.
Option 3: Use a Flat-Fee MLS Service
If you want your home listed on the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) but don’t want to hire a full-service agent, you can pay a flat fee to list your home. You’ll still need to manage showings and negotiations, but your property will get more exposure. Keep in mind: if a buyer’s agent brings you a buyer, you might still need to pay them a 2–3% commission.
What About Paperwork and Legal Forms?
In Alabama, real estate contracts must follow certain legal requirements. You can use state-approved forms or work with a real estate attorney or title company to make sure everything is done right.
Is It Worth It?
Selling without a realtor isn’t for everyone. If your house is in great condition and you’re comfortable with the process, FSBO might be a good fit. But if you want to save time and reduce hassle, working directly with a cash buyer is often the best way to avoid fees while still getting a fair offer.
We Can Help
At Morgan Matney Home Buyers, we work with homeowners across Huntsville and North Alabama who want to sell fast without dealing with agents, commissions, or repairs. Whether you’re dealing with probate, foreclosure, divorce, or just want a simple sale—we’re here to help.
Reach out today for a no-obligation cash offer. We make the process easy, and we never charge any fees or commissions.
Disclaimer: We are not attorneys and this post does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation.