🎯 Know your property’s value first
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Estimate my property →With broker commissions representing 4 to 6% of the sale price, many Quebec homeowners wonder whether it’s worthwhile to sell without a broker. The answer isn’t simple: it depends on your market, experience, and property type. Here’s an objective analysis.
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Estimate my property💰 How much do you really save by selling without a broker?
On paper, the savings seem significant. In reality, the numbers deserve nuance.
4-6%
Typical commission
$24K-36K
On a $600,000 home
-5 to 7%
Average lower sale price
💡 Did you know? According to several studies, homes sold without a broker sell for 5 to 7% less on average than those sold with a broker. On $600,000, that’s a loss of $30,000 to $42,000 which often exceeds the commission saved.
That said, in a very dynamic seller’s market where properties sell quickly at asking price, the gap may be smaller. The key is to know your local market well.
⚠️ Risks of selling without a broker
Selling without a broker means assuming several important responsibilities on your own:
❌ Mispricing — Without access to internal comparables, you risk leaving money on the table
❌ Legal exposure — The seller’s disclosure form and legal obligations are complex
❌ Weak negotiation — Against a buyer represented by an experienced broker
❌ Reduced visibility — Without access to the MLS/Centris system, you reach fewer buyers
❌ Longer time on market — Broker-free properties stay listed 30% longer on average
⚠️ Warning: in Quebec, sellers have a legal obligation to disclose all known defects. An omission or error can lead to a costly lawsuit. A broker also protects you through their professional liability insurance.
📋 Steps to sell on your own in Quebec
If you decide to sell without a broker, here are the steps to follow:
1. 📊 Set the price — Use comparables, municipal assessment and an online estimator
2. 📝 Complete the seller’s disclosure — Mandatory document detailing the property’s condition
3. 📸 Photos and marketing — Professional photos, description, online ads
4. 📅 Manage showings — Organize and conduct visits yourself
5. 🤝 Negotiate offers — Analyze and respond to promises to purchase
6. 🏛️ Notary — Have the deed of sale prepared by a notary (mandatory)
🧮 Calculate your selling costs (with or without broker)
Seller calculator →🏠 DuProprio and other private sale platforms
DuProprio is Quebec’s best-known platform for selling without a broker. Here’s what it offers and what you should know:
✅ What’s included
Online listing with photos
For-sale sign
Legal document templates
Phone support
❌ What’s missing
No MLS/Centris access
No negotiation on your behalf
Cost of $700 to $1,500
Showings to manage yourself
DuProprio accounts for about 20% of residential sales in Quebec. It’s a viable option for experienced sellers in an active market, but it requires time and personal involvement.
💡 Modern alternatives to traditional brokers
Between a traditional full-commission broker and fully autonomous selling, there are now intermediate options:
Reduced-commission brokers
Some brokers offer rates of 1 to 3% instead of the traditional 4-6%. You keep MLS access and professional support.
Flat-fee packages
Some brokers offer a fixed fee (e.g. $10,000) regardless of sale price. Ideal for higher-value properties.
Compare brokers
Platforms like CourtiConnect let you compare brokers in your area and negotiate the best commission. The best of both worlds.
Find the right broker at the best rate
Compare brokers in your area and negotiate the commission. Free property estimate included.
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