Understanding Commission Options When Listing a Home

There’s more than one way to pay your REALTOR®, but not all methods are created equal. Here's what you need to know:

1. Performance-Based Model

This model ensures your REALTOR® only gets paid after you’ve accepted an offer and the buyer has taken possession. It means your agent is motivated to get you the best price and service possible—your success is their success. This commission amount is negotiated at the onset between the seller and the agent.

2. Flat Fee or “Mere Posting”

This option asks you to pay upfront, regardless of whether your home sells. Need staging, photography, or negotiation help? That’s extra. Plus, many sellers forget they’re still expected to pay the buyer’s agent…

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Selling a home isn’t just about square footage and comps—it’s emotional. You’ve built memories here. Every creak in the floor and corner of the kitchen holds a moment. So why risk selling it alone?

Here are 10 reasons why hiring a REALTOR® to sell your Edmonton home is more than just a smart move—it’s essential:

  1. Emotional Anchor: REALTORS® keep you grounded when emotions rise. They offer calm, experienced advice when stress peaks.
  2. Market Mastery: They understand real estate listings and local trends, knowing exactly how to price your home for maximum value.
  3. Strategic Pricing: Overprice and your house sits. Underprice and you leave money behind. REALTORS® strike the sweet spot.
  4. Marketing Firepower: From social media blitzes to…

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Shop Local

Local personalization combines two growing trends that clients love and leads to more repeat and referral clients which should make up the vast majority of any relationship based business. Choosing an Edmonton owned and operated business with a top tier track record can reap many rewards beyond the current transaction. When it comes to real estate look for a locally owned one right up to the top echelons this includes the agent, brokerage and company headquarters.  A strong local culture in a business increases use of other local businesses as well for example signage, promotion, accounting, photography, 3D tours, measurements, charities and fuel to name a few. The benefits of supporting local include reduced carbon footprint, job…

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Radon Asbestos & DNA

Home owners are availing themselves of lab science due to factors such as increased awareness of Radon, the leading cause of lung Cancer in non-smoking Canadians, according to the Canadian Cancer Society. As well asbestos encountered during renovations from Drywall, Drywall mud, textured ceilings, heat duct tape, ceiling tiles and older square stick on floor tiles to name a few have home owners looking for cost effective solutions to avoid exposure. Add to that increased advances in DNA research which can be used to determine areas where a person may be predisposed to certain health conditions and through supervised protocols improve health, it is not a stretch to assume an increase in demand for these tests.

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When is the Best Time of Year to List a Home for Sale on the Market?

I often get asked "when is the best time to list a property, should I wait until the Spring?" The answer beyond a pat, "it depends" is really, "the best time of the year to list your home is when you want to." I'll give you the pros and cons of doing it at different times of the year, namely Fall/Winter or Spring/Summer. I'll also cover the three aspects to listing a home that don't change no matter the time of year.

Listing in the Fall/Winter means there is less competition from other listings and the fewer buyers out there are motivated and ready for the most part. Of course it is colder and some of the buyers are looking for the "off peak market deal". With Spring/Summer…

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You're driving through an Edmonton neighborhood when you see it—a beautiful house for sale. You call the number on the sign, hoping to get a good deal. But here’s what most buyers don’t realize: that call could cost you.

Who Does the Listing Agent Work For?

The agent on the sign is legally and ethically committed to the seller. Their job? Get the seller the highest price and best terms—not to represent or protect your interests.

What You Risk Without Your Own REALTOR®

When you approach a listing alone, you’re unrepresented. That means no one is legally obligated to protect you in price negotiations, inspection conditions, or disclosures. You could overpay, overlook defects, or miss legal red flags.

The Emotional Cost

You’re navigating…

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New vs. Pre-Owned Homes in Edmonton: Your 2025 Buyer’s Guide

Buying a home in Edmonton, Sherwood Park, or St. Albert in 2025? Whether you’re eyeing a brand-new build or a charming pre-owned home, understanding the pros and cons is key. As an experienced Edmonton realtor, I guide clients through both options, including MLS listings and new home builders, to find the perfect fit. Here’s what you need to know about new vs. pre-owned homes in Edmonton’s dynamic real estate market.

Why Choose New Homes in Edmonton?

New homes in Edmonton, Sherwood Park, and surrounding area including acreages offer modern features and peace of mind. According to 2025 MLS data, new homes in Edmonton average $550,000, with high demand in areas like Windermere and…

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AREA Member Profile excerpt from AREA's Monthly Newsletter

Kevin Grenier REALTOR® with helmet
The Alberta Real Estate Association featured Kevin in their April 2018 issue of their monthly newsletter. 

Kevin Grenier, REALTOR® with MaxWell Polaris in Edmonton is a man of many hats. His favourite? A motorcycle helmet. With Spring here, Kevin’s clients choosing to take their own vehicle will be following him on his motorcycle to view homes.

“Many clients have been greeted for the first time by me rolling up on two wheels, in my very best gear and tie,” says Kevin. “Life is too short to not have fun and both buying and selling can be stressful. My job with clients is to keep stress levels at bay with sound advice and a sprinkle of levity and laughter!”

We agree in full, Kevin. Stay…

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