[GDSOB]

There are other options than the traditional 6%. We just opened a Help-U-Sell office and charge $3450 for most of our listings, full service. Many of our offices sell without listing on the MLS which saves the 3% buyers agent co-op. The set fee or fee-for-service model is becoming more popular as the consumer demands options to keep more of their equity.

Many states are passing bills that define the minimum services required by listing brokers as a defense against limited service brokers or MLS only listings. One of the issues is that a buyers agent may have to do work for both buyer and seller in the FSBo or limited service transaction. There are significant legal issues that need to be resolved as the RE brokerage environment evolves. That said, the NAR carries a big stick and aims to protect the turf of their members, so it won't be easy for anyone looking to change the status quo.