As a home seller, one of the biggest decisions you'll make is choosing the right real estate agent to market and sell your property.

With considerable commission rates, the thought of going with a discount broker who charges a rock-bottom fee can be tempting.

However, focusing solely on the commission rate is often a penny-wise but pound-foolish approach. 

Here's why the lowest fee isn't necessarily the best deal:

1. Experience and Expertise Matters.

An experienced, skilled listing agent understands the local market dynamics inside and out. They know how to effectively price your home, recommend affordable fixes to maximize value, create a strategic marketing plan, and negotiate the best possible sale price and terms. A cut-rate agent may just put your home on the MLS (multiple listing service) and wait, lacking the expertise to truly sell your largest asset for top dollar.

2. Robust Marketing and Reach.

The best agents invest heavily in marketing their listings across multiple channels - from professional photography and targeted digital advertising to email campaigns and their personal networks. Does a discount broker have the resources, reach and budget to gain maximum exposure for your listing? If not, your home could languish on the market.

3. Results-Driven Representation.

At the end of the day, the key question is: Which agent can get you the highest possible sale price and best terms to maximize your profits? A proven agent who strategically markets across all avenues (traditional, digital, and social) and aggressively represents your interests may secure a far better net result, even with a higher commission. 

Like most things in life, you get what you pay for in real estate.

While commissions are certainly one factor to consider, taking a short-sighted view by selecting an agent based on fee alone could leave a lot of money on the table. Look for an agent with experience, successful marketing strategies, and a track record of beating odds to get top dollar for their clients.