1.5% Commission vs 6% – What Fairfax Sellers Should Know

by Saad Jamil

If you’re a homeowner in Fairfax, Fairfax County Virginia, selling your home comes with one major cost: agent commissions. For decades, sellers assumed they had no choice but to pay a traditional 6% commission. But times are changing—and now you have options that can save you thousands without sacrificing results.

This is where the 1.5% full-service listing program comes in. Fairfax homeowners are asking: why pay more when you can get the same—or better—results for less? With home values often ranging from $700,000 to well over $1.5 million in Fairfax, even a small percentage difference in commission equals tens of thousands of dollars back in your pocket.

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What’s the Difference Between 1.5% and 6%?

Traditionally, sellers in Fairfax pay around 6% in commission: 3% to the listing agent and 3% to the buyer’s agent. On a $1,000,000 home, that’s $60,000 in fees. With a 1.5% listing-side commission, your costs are dramatically lower, while you still choose what—to offer a buyer’s agent. This structure saves tens of thousands while maintaining full service.

Here’s the key difference: you’re no longer locked into outdated commission models. With today’s marketing strategies, technology, and buyer demand in Fairfax, Fairfax County Virginia, you don’t need to pay 6% to sell successfully. The 1.5% model delivers the same exposure, the same professional service, and the same competitive results—at a fraction of the cost.

Why Fairfax Homeowners Are Choosing 1.5%

Fairfax sellers are savvy. They know their homes are in high demand due to excellent schools, proximity to Tysons Corner, Metro access, and the unique balance of suburban charm with urban convenience. Paying a full 6% commission no longer makes sense when a 1.5% listing option provides:

  • Professional presentation – HD photography, staging guidance, 3D tours, and compelling listing descriptions that highlight Fairfax’s strongest features
  • Maximum exposure – MLS, Zillow, Realtor.com, social media ads, and targeted buyer outreach to Northern Virginia and beyond
  • Expert negotiation – full contract management, pricing strategy, and experienced agents working to protect your bottom line
  • Thousands in savings – money you can reinvest in your next purchase, pay down debt, or simply keep in your pocket

In today’s competitive Fairfax County market, every dollar matters. Choosing a smarter commission structure is one of the easiest ways to maximize your net proceeds.

Commission Savings Comparison

Home Price 6% Commission 1.5% Commission*
$750,000 $45,000 $11,250
$1,000,000 $60,000 $15,000
$1,500,000 $90,000 $22,500

*Excludes any optional buyer-broker fee; savings vary by property.

Why It Matters for Fairfax Sellers

In a community where the average detached home often sells for $1M+, the difference between 6% and 1.5% is not small change—it’s a new car, a child’s college tuition payment, or major savings you can use for your next move. Your equity is hard-earned; don’t give away more than you need to.

Sell Smart in Fairfax with Our 1.5% Program

Keep more of your home’s value without giving up full service. Our 1.5% full-service listing program is designed for Fairfax homeowners ready to maximize their sale.

Call Today: (703) 375-9583

Learn More About Our 1.5% Listing Program

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Fairfax sellers really save with 1.5%?
Yes. On a $1M home, the difference between 6% and 1.5% is $45,000 in savings, while still getting full professional service.
Does lower commission mean fewer services?
Not at all. You still get marketing, professional photos, MLS exposure, negotiation, and contract management. The only difference is you keep more of your equity.
What about buyer agent commissions?
The 1.5% covers only the listing side. You decide what, if anything, to offer a buyer’s agent. Your net proceeds calculator will show different scenarios.
Is 1.5% available throughout Fairfax County?
Yes, but it’s especially valuable in high-demand areas of Fairfax, Fairfax County Virginia, where home prices are strong and every percentage saved means thousands back to you.

"1.5% listing service" refers to the listing-side brokerage fee only; any seller-offered buyer-broker compensation (if any), brokerage/admin fees, and all third-party charges (title/lender/HOA/recording, inspections, warranties, etc.) are separate. Minimums and exclusions may apply; see the listing agreement and the Important Information & Disclosures.

Important Information & Disclosures

Last updated: October 16, 2025

Content on this page is provided for general educational purposes for homeowners in Fairfax County, Virginia and should not be relied upon as legal, tax, accounting, or financial advice. Consult your attorney, CPA, lender, and title company for advice specific to your situation.

Estimates Only: Cost figures reflect common scenarios as of August 2025 and may change without notice due to market conditions and third-party fees (title insurance, lender charges, HOA/condo, transfer/recording, inspections, warranties, etc.). No guarantee is made regarding your net proceeds or savings.

Brokerage Compensation & 1.5% Listing Service: Commissions are not set by law and are fully negotiable. The "1.5% listing service" refers solely to the listing-side brokerage fee. Any seller-offered buyer-broker compensation (if any), brokerage/admin fees, and all third-party charges are separate. Minimum fees and program exclusions may apply; full details are provided in the written listing agreement.

Accuracy & Corrections: Information is provided "as-is" and, while believed accurate, may contain errors or omissions. If you see an error, please contact us for prompt correction.

No Agency Created: Viewing this page, contacting us, or submitting a form does not create an agency relationship. Representation begins only upon mutual execution of a written agreement.

Fair Housing: We conduct business in accordance with the Fair Housing Act. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Advertising: Advertising is provided by Samson Properties, main office Chantilly, VA. Team: The Jamil Brothers Realty Group.

Not a Solicitation: Not intended to solicit homeowners currently under an exclusive representation agreement with another broker.

Where market statistics or MLS data are referenced, they are deemed reliable but not guaranteed; availability and terms are subject to change.

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