FAQ — 1% Listing Fee, Selling Process & More | Fixed Rate Real Estate

Question 1

Is a 1% listing fee legal in California?

Accepted Answer

Yes. California Business & Professions Code §10147.5 explicitly states that real estate commissions are fully negotiable. There is no minimum commission required by law. Fixed Rate Real Estate charges 1% on the listing side, which is entirely legal and increasingly common.

Question 2

What does the 1% listing fee cover?

Accepted Answer

The 1% listing fee covers everything a traditional agent provides: professional photography, MLS listing and syndication to Zillow/Realtor.com/Redfin, comparative market analysis, pricing strategy, offer negotiation, escrow management, and full seller education throughout the process.

Question 3

What about the buyer's agent commission?

Accepted Answer

The 1% covers the listing side only. You will still offer a buyer's agent commission, which is negotiated separately based on current market conditions. Stephanie will advise you on competitive buyer's agent compensation for your specific neighborhood and price range.

Question 4

Will buyers' agents show my home if I offer less commission?

Accepted Answer

Buyer's agent compensation is set by you and Stephanie together, based on current market conditions in your area. Stephanie's 34 years of experience means she knows exactly what's competitive in your neighborhood and will help you set a buyer's agent commission that attracts qualified buyers.

Question 5

How long does it take to sell a home in Orange County?

Accepted Answer

In most Southern California markets, a well-priced, well-presented home sells within 2–4 weeks of listing. The total time from listing agreement to close of escrow is typically 30–45 days once you're in contract. Stephanie will give you a realistic timeline based on current conditions in your specific market.

Question 6

How do you determine the right listing price?

Accepted Answer

Stephanie prepares a detailed Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) using recent sold homes in your neighborhood, adjusted for size, condition, location, and features. She combines this data with 34 years of local market knowledge to recommend a pricing strategy designed to attract qualified buyers and maximize your net proceeds.

Question 7

What is escrow and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

Escrow is a neutral third-party process that manages the transfer of funds and documents between buyer and seller. Once you accept an offer, escrow opens and typically runs 30–45 days. During this time, the buyer completes inspections, secures financing, and both parties fulfill contract obligations. Stephanie manages every step of this process on your behalf.

Question 8

What areas does Stephanie Pedley serve?

Accepted Answer

Stephanie serves all of Southern California, with deep expertise in Orange County — particularly South OC communities like Laguna Beach, Dana Point, San Clemente, Mission Viejo, Laguna Niguel, and Aliso Viejo. She also serves San Diego, Riverside, Los Angeles, and San Bernardino Counties.

Question 9

How is Stephanie Pedley different from other real estate agents?

Accepted Answer

Stephanie spent years in mortgage lending and underwriting before becoming a licensed broker. That means she understands every layer of a real estate transaction — not just the sales side. She can identify financing red flags, explain appraisal risk, and walk you through every document in plain language. Combined with a 1% listing fee, that's a combination most agents simply can't match.

Question 10

How do I get started selling my home with Fixed Rate Real Estate?

Accepted Answer

The easiest first step is a free home value consultation. Stephanie will prepare a Comparative Market Analysis for your property, walk you through the 1% listing model, and answer all your questions — with no obligation and no pressure. Call (949) 627-3300 or use the contact form to schedule a time.

Your Questions, Answered

About the 1% Listing Fee

The Selling Process

Working with Stephanie

Still Have Questions?

Your Questions, Answered

About the 1% Listing Fee

Is a 1% listing fee legal in California?

What does the 1% cover?

What about the buyer's agent commission?

Will buyers' agents show my home if I offer less?

The Selling Process

How long does it take to sell a home?

How do you determine the right listing price?

Do I need to stage my home?

What is escrow and how does it work?

Working with Stephanie

What areas does Stephanie serve?

How is Stephanie different from other agents?

How do I get started?

Still Have Questions?