✏️ Editor’s Note: Realtor Associations, agents, and MLS’ have started implementing changes related to the NAR’s $418 million settlement. While home-sellers will likely save thousands in commission, compliance and litigation risks have significantly increased for sellers throughout the nation. Learn how NAR’s settlement affects home sellers.
The Alabama housing market is finally cooling off. The process can be overwhelming if you’re looking for a home or getting ready to sell your own. With our rankings of the 5 best REALTORS in Alabama, you can find the right one for a smooth and hassle-free real estate transaction.
Key Takeaways
- A REALTOR is a licensed real estate professional who is also a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR).
- All REALTORS are real estate agents, but all real estate agents are not REALTORS.
- REALTORS typically charge a 6% commission.
- You can SAVE thousands in commissions with Flat Fee MLS Listings and Discount Real Estate Brokers.
Reviews: 5 Best REALTORS in Alabama
1. Bill Johnson
/5
( reviews)
Queen's Take
Bill Johnson is a Flat Fee REALTOR licensed in 7 states. He offers virtual full-service packages via Houzeo.
For Home Sellers
- Flat Fee Listing: Sellers can list on MLS for a flat fee and save thousands of dollars in commissions.
- Full Automation: Powered by Houzeo.com, Bill Johnson can help you manage your listing 100% online.
For Home Buyers
- Submit an Offer: Buyers can make an offer on properties listed on Houzeo.com.
- Closing Cost Calculator: Buyers can even use Houzeo’s Closing Cost Calculator to estimate closing expenses.
Our Take: We recommend Bill Johnson for his expertise in multiple real estate markets across the country and the easy listing management services offered by him through Houzeo.com’s technology.
» List With Bill: Check out the services offered by Bill Johnson via Houzeo.com
- Transaction Sides: Has sold over 1,130 properties until now.
- Houzeo Agent Advantage: Access to a 100% online platform that facilitates easy listing, fast changes, online showings, and offers.
Bill has a rating of 4.9 stars out of 5.0 on Houzeo
Bill Johnson, Discount Realty Solution: Find out what customers are saying about Bill Johnson REALTOR.
👍Wide Coverage: Bill Johnson offers flat fee broker services in 7 states: Alabama, Arkansas, California, Georgia, Mississippi, Oregon, and Washington.
👍 Rankings of Local REALTORS: In case Bill doesn’t cover your zip code, you can consider other local agents in the area –
2. Amanda Howard
/5
( reviews)
Queen's Take
Amanda Howard is a REALTOR licensed in Alabama. She specializes in relocation and investments. Amanda is affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty.
For Home Sellers
- Guaranteed Sale Program: Amanda offers a love-it-or-leave-it guarantee program where her team will repurchase the house if the buyer is unhappy with the purchase.
- Maximum Exposure: Amanda and her team use advanced marketing and digital strategies that can help drive more traffic to your listing giving your property maximum exposure.
For Home Buyers
- Quick Finder: Search for houses with advanced filters like price range, property type, no. of bedrooms, etc. on the website.
👉 Our take: We recommend Amanda Howard as she is one of the top real estate agents and has helped over 2,100 families buy/sell their homes.
» Flat Fee MLS Alabama: Check out the best Flat Fee MLS service in Alabama!
Transaction Sides: Amanda has sold 245 properties in the past 12 months.
Achievements
- Certified Residential Specialist
- NAR’s e-PRO
Amanda has a rating of 5.0 stars out of 5.0 on Zillow
👎Coverage: Amanda is licensed in Alabama and provides her services through Sotheby’s International Realty.
👍 Rankings of Local Realtor Agents: In case Amanda doesn’t cover your zip code, you can consider other local agents in the area-
3. Gusty Gulas
/5
( reviews)
Queen's Take
Gusty Gulas is a REALTOR licensed in Alabama. He specializes in foreclosure and relocation. Gusty is affiliated with eXp Realty.
For Home Sellers
- Free CMA Report: Gusty and his team offer a free comparative market analysis and home evaluation report.
For Home Buyers
- Access to Data: Receive access to the latest market data, providing you invaluable insights into the real market value and trends.
- Financing: Gusty offers home financing services to buyers like a mortgage calculator and mortgage preapproval to help you make better decisions.
👉 Our take: We recommend Gusty Gulas because of his experience of 17+ years in the real estate market making him the local expert.
» Alabama For Sale By Owner: Looking for an FSBO home? Get the list of best for sale by owner homes in your area.
Transaction Sides: Gusty Gulas has sold 368 properties in the past 12 months.
Achievements
- President of the Birmingham Association of Realtors
- President National Association of Realtors Board of Directors
- Top Rated Realtor on Zillow and Google
Gusty Gulas has a rating of 5.0 stars out of 5.0 on Zillow
👎Coverage: Gusty is licensed in Alabama and provides his services through eXp Realty.
👍 Rankings of Local Realtor Agents: In case Gusty doesn’t cover your zip code, you can consider other local agents in the area-
4. Steven Dillard
/5
( reviews)
Queen's Take
Steven Dillard is a REALTOR in Alabama. He specializes in military and relocation. Steven is affiliated with RE/MAX Realty.
For Home Sellers
- Free CMA Reports: Steven offers free reports of comparative market analysis and your home’s estimated value according to current market trends.
- Maximum Exposure: Steven and his team use advanced marketing and digital strategies that can help drive more traffic to your listing giving your property maximum exposure.
For Home Buyers
- Real-Time Alerts: Steven provides you with the latest technology where you receive real-time alerts making finding a home easier.
- Mobile App: The app gives you access to home searches at your fingertips. You can save searches and schedule showings.
👉 Our take: We recommend Realtor Steven Dillard because has extensive knowledge of the local market and experience of 17+ years in the real estate field.
Transaction Sides: Steven sold over 451 properties until now.
Achievements
- REMAX Hall of Fame Award
- REMAX Platinum Club
- REMAX 100% and Executive Club
Steven has a rating of 5.0 stars out of 5.0 on Zillow
👎Coverage: Steven is licensed in Alabama and provides his services through REMAX Realty.
👍 Rankings of Local Realtor Agents: In case Steven doesn’t cover your zip code, you can consider other local agents in the area-
5. Stephanie Schulte
/5
( reviews)
Queen's Take
Stephanie Schulte is a REALTOR in Alabama. She specializes in foreclosures and relocation. Stephanie is affiliated with eXp Realty.
For Home Sellers
- Free CMA Report: Stephanie and her team offer a free comparative market analysis and home evaluation report.
- Advanced Marketing: Stephanie offers advanced marketing strategies backed with data like interactive landing pages, drip campaigns, and also aerial real estate photography.
For Home Buyers
- Access to Data: Receive access to the latest market data, providing you invaluable insights into the real market value and trends.
- Financing: Stephanie offers home financing options to buyers like mortgage preapproval to help you make better decisions.
👉 Our take: We recommend Stephanie because of her experience of 19+ years in the real estate market making her the local expert.
» Alabama Real Estate Market: Know more about the 2023 Hawaii market predictions & updates!
Transaction Sides: Stephanie Schulte has sold 580 properties in until now.
Achievements
- Closed over $15,800,000 in sales in 2021
Stephanie has a rating of 4.9 stars out of 5.0 on Zillow
👎Coverage: Stephanie is licensed in Alabama and provides her services through eXp Realty.
👍 Rankings of Local Realtor Agents: In case Stephanie doesn’t cover your zip code, you can consider other local agents in the area-
What are Realtor Agents?
Realtor Agents are real estate professionals adhering to the code of ethics laid down by the National Association of REALTORS (NAR), America’s largest real estate association.
The designation of a Realtor in Alabama is open to a variety of professionals like commercial brokers, agents, appraisers, property managers, and counselors working in the real estate sector.
» NAR Code of Ethics: A Comprehensive Guide.
What is the Average Realtor Commission in Alabama?
The average Realtor commission is typically between 5 and 6%. However, this fee is negotiable and legal as well. With increasing competition and better alternatives, Realtor agents are willing to lower their commissions and provide concessions to the home seller.
🔎 What is the Real Estate Commission in Alabama: Know what is the average real estate commission in Alabama!
💰 Skip 3% Listing Agent Commission
With Houzeo technology, you can save thousands by listing FSBO for a flat fee of $349!
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Who Pays Realtor Fees?
The seller typically pays the REALTOR fees. However, this concept is a tricky one. Although the seller is responsible for paying the fees to the REALTOR, they have already considered this amount when determining the listing price. In simple terms, it can be said that REALTOR fees are a part of the sale price of a home.
- 💲 Save on commission – list on MLS for less with Houzeo real estate!
Do Closing Costs include Realtor Fees?
Yes. REALTOR fees are a major part of the closing costs that a seller or a buyer pays in a real estate transaction. Closing costs, also known as “settlement costs,” are the final expenses to complete the real estate transaction.
1. Home Selling
A sizeable chunk of the seller’s closing costs, comprising 5%–6% of the sales price, is made up of REALTOR commissions. It is important to note that the seller pays a commission to both the listing agent and the buyer’s agent.
The commissions can vary according to the type of service you want to opt for selling your home.
- Flat Fee MLS: Sell your home with an average fee of $399 and save thousands in commissions. Get the best possible exposure for your home by listing it on the MLS.
- Discount Real Estate Brokers: The average fee these brokers charge is $5,000 or 1.5% of the sale price. They provide services at reduced rates thereby making them a top choice for sellers.
- Full-Service Realtors: They provide all their services online for a fixed upfront fee or for a commission. Their services include listing your house, documentation, negotiations, showings, and closings.
2. Home Buying
Buyer closing costs do not usually include the REALTOR fees. However, this fee is already included in the price the buyer pays for their home.
⚡Buyer Closing Costs: Check our in-depth on how much the buyer has to pay as closing costs.
Realtor vs. Agent vs. Broker
- Real Estate Agents: They are licensed professionals who represent buyers or sellers in real estate transactions. They must work independently or with a broker or a brokerage.
- Real Estate Broker: Brokers are agents with experience and a license, allowed after completing additional coursework. They can either start their own brokerage or work independently as agents.
- REALTOR®: REALTORs are agents or brokers that are members of NAR and follow NAR’s code of ethics. Their modes of operation and responsibilities include that of agents and/or brokers.
💸 Want To Save On The REALTOR® Commission?
We have got you covered. Sell your house with Houzeo.com for a small flat fee – as less as $349!
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How to Find a Realtor in Alabama?
Home sellers and buyers can find a top real estate agent in Alabama with proper research. If you wish to sell a single-family home or a condo, it is essential to find a REALTOR specializing in that sale.
We have listed the process for finding an Alabama Realtor who will help you in your real estate journey.
How to Find Realtors in Alabama
- Look for real estate agents or brokers who are members of the NAR.
- Verify whether they provide cutting-edge tech.
- Check their customer reviews.
- Find out whether they offer optional online paperwork.
- Interview Realtors and convey your requirement.
- Compare the Realtors based on commission percentage and services provided.
- Finalize the one that best understands your real estate goals.
Can You List Your Home on the MLS Without a Realtor?
No. Only licensed real estate agents have access to the MLS. There is no way to list on the MLS without an agent.
You can just opt for a Flat Fee MLS listing service. With a Flat-Fee MLS listing, you pay a small fee instead of a full listing agent commission. A Flat Fee MLS listing is the fastest way to get listed on the MLS and hit the market.
With high-tech services like Houzeo real estate, you can get listed faster than a traditional full-service Realtor. And save thousands!
» How to Get Access to MLS: Here’s how to list on MLS without a REALTOR!
Alternatives to Top Realtors in Alabama
If saving money is the main goal you should consider the following:
1. Flat Fee MLS Companies
With Flat Fee MLS companies like Houzeo real estate, you can not only save thousands of dollars in commissions but also take advantage of their technology for selling your house fast. These companies will list your property on your local MLS for a flat fee of a few hundred dollars.
They also offer a range of other services like showing management, offer management, and digital transaction management. These companies are the cheapest way to get your house on the MLS and maximize your profits.
» Flat Fee Real Estate Alabama: Check out the best Flat Fee MLS Companies in Alabama.
Can you list your home on the MLS without a REALTOR?
Technically, no. Only licensed real estate agents have access to the MLS. There is no way to list on the MLS without using an agent.
You can just opt for a Flat Fee MLS listing service. With a Flat Fee MLS listing, you pay a small fee instead of a full listing agent commission. A Flat Fee MLS listing is the fastest way to get listed on the MLS and hit the market.
With high-tech services like Houzeo, you can get listed faster than a traditional full-service Realtor. And save thousands!
» How to Get Access to MLS: Here’s how to list on MLS without a REALTOR!
2. Discount Brokers
Discount brokers are licensed individuals or companies that help you sell your home at a low commission or flat rate. Most discount realtors charge a single fee for the entire sale.
These Flat Fee Realtors have the tools to provide excellent exposure to home sellers. They offer social media exposure, a personalized website, and other features despite offering their services at a lower rate than traditional real estate brokers.
Here are our top recommendations:
| Discount Brokers | Fees |
| Redfin | 1.5% of the sale price |
| SimpleShowing | 1% of the sale price |
| Houwzer | $5000 Flat Fee |
| Redefy | $3500 Flat Fee |
3. Sell “For Sale By Owner”
77% of the FSBO sellers sold their houses in 2 weeks. Advanced FSBO websites like Houzeo help you sell your home fast and make a successful sale.
The best part about selling a house by owner is the freedom to make decisions about your home sale without a Realtor. Since there is no listing agent involved, you end up saving thousands of dollars on the seller agent commission which would have been impossible otherwise.
⚡How to Sell a House By Owner in Alabama: Check out our tips for selling your home like a pro with FSBO
Selling with a Realtor vs. FSBO vs. Flat Fee MLS
| Features | Selling With a Realtor | Selling by Owner | Selling with a Flat Fee MLS Service like Houzeo |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💲 Pricing | 👎 3% listing agent commission | 👍 Savings on listing agent commission, you only pay the buyer agent commission | 👍 A small Flat Fee for listing. Unrepresented buyers can help you save on buyer agent commission |
| ⚙️ Control Over Transaction | 👎 Minimal control of the owner | 👎 Full control, zero guidance | 👍 Full control, Houzeo's 5-star customer support for guidance |
| 📞 Contacting Buyers and Managing Offers | 👎 No direct contact, meetings depend on agent's convenience | 👎 Handling multiple offers and buyers all on your own | 👍 Direct contact with prospective buyers. Manage offers efficiently with Houzeo's dashboard. |
| 💻 Technology | 👎 Manual, outdated technology with tedious paperwork | 👎 Single-handed management without tech-support | 👍 Houzeo Showings app helps you manage showings at your convenience, & the Settlement Agent Platform guides you until closing |
| 💰 Closing Cost Estimation | 👍 Guaranteed expert advice | 👎 Estimation can go wrong | 👍 Accurate estimation with Houzeo's Advanced Closing Cost Calculator |
| 📢 Exposure | 👍 MLS exposure | 👎 Zero MLS access | 👍 Exposure on MLS, social media, & 100+ real estate websites |
4. Sell to “We Buy Houses for Cash” Companies
When selling a home for cash, you can skip repairs to reduce your expenses. Selling your house as is will save you money and time. Home sellers get 50% – 70% of the property’s market value for their houses, whether it’s a distressed property or not.
When selling their houses to cash companies, fewer inspections and paperwork speed up the closing process significantly. Cash companies are the institutional investor networks of house flippers and wholesale real estate investors.
⚡ Cash Home Buyers in Alabama: Check our rankings of the top cash companies in AL!
5. Sell to iBuyers
iBuyers are companies that buy houses for cash. The price is decided with the help of their proprietary algorithm, recent real estate data, and in-house experts. An iBuyer makes an all cash offer and closes the deal within 24 hours. However, there are certain pitfalls when dealing with an iBuyer.
- The offer price is sometimes way lower than the actual market price
- Their offer price is generally non-negotiable
- Charge steep service fees – generally 5%-14% of the sale price
Hence, iBuyers are only recommended if you want a quick sale rather than to save your money.
⚡ iBuyer Reviews: See who’s No.1 in America!
Final Word
Having a good REALTOR® when selling or buying a house can make the process a cakewalk. Their guidance can help you get the best price for your property or find your dream home.
However, with the average REALTOR commission being 6% across the nation, split 50-50 between the listing agent and the buyer agent, your profits on the sale are substantially reduced. Additionally, seller closing costs will eat away at your profits.
Although there is no escaping the closing costs, opting for Flat Fee Realtor, empowered by Houzeo, can help you save 3% listing agent commission.
