Same MLS, Same Buyers, Different Net: How Raleigh Sellers Keep More of Their Sale Proceeds

When Raleigh homeowners prepare to sell, most conversations start with commission percentages. Sellers compare 3 percent* versus alternative options and assume that higher fees automatically lead to better results. What many sellers never see is that commission percentage is not the outcome. Net proceeds are.

Two Raleigh homes can sell on the same MLS, attract the same buyers, and even close at the same price. Yet one seller can walk away with tens of thousands more than the other. The difference is not luck. It is structure.

I am Phil Slezak, a Raleigh-based real estate professional and part of Team With The Guarantee’s. I help sellers focus on what actually matters at closing, not what looks familiar on a listing agreement. Excellence is our Standard and Customer Satisfaction is our Passion, especially when equity is on the line.

How Do I Keep More Money When Selling a Home in Raleigh?

Raleigh sellers keep more money by focusing on net proceeds instead of commission percentages.

Net proceeds account for all costs, not just fees. According to the National Association of Realtors, sellers who understand total transaction math make better decisions. Price, credits, timing, and fees all combine to determine what you keep.

Net is the only number that matters.

Why Net Proceeds Matter More Than Commission Percentage

Commission is just one line on a net sheet.

Focusing on a single percentage hides the full picture. Sellers who focus only on fees often miss larger opportunities to improve outcomes. Net proceeds reflect the true result of every decision made during the sale.

Smart sellers follow the math.

Same MLS Exposure Does Not Mean Same Outcome

MLS exposure is widely misunderstood.

Most homes in Raleigh appear in the same buyer searches regardless of listing fee. MLS access is a baseline requirement, not a premium advantage. Buyers do not know what a seller is paying to list.

Exposure is equal. Execution is not.

How Two Sellers With the Same Price Walk Away Differently

Two sellers can accept the same sale price and still have different results.

Differences often come from:

• Listing fee structure

• Seller credits negotiated

• Concessions given under pressure

• Pricing and launch strategy

Each decision compounds into the final net.

The Misconception That Higher Fees Equal Better Results

Higher fees do not guarantee higher performance.

In many cases, they simply reduce flexibility. Paying more does not create buyer demand or better pricing. Demand comes from the market, not the invoice.

Performance is strategic, not automatic.

How Fee Structure Impacts Leverage and Confidence

Fee structure affects how sellers negotiate.

Sellers who protect equity feel less pressure to concede. Confidence improves negotiation posture. When fees are leaner, sellers often hold firmer on price and terms.

Confidence changes outcomes.

Marketing Allocation Versus Marketing Spend

Spending more does not always mean spending better.

Effective marketing focuses on timing, presentation, and pricing psychology. According to Redfin market insights, homes priced correctly often outperform those with larger marketing budgets.

Allocation beats excess.

How Sold Zero Changes the Math for Raleigh Sellers

The Sold Zero strategy Raleigh shifts focus from percentage fees to net results.

Instead of paying for tradition, sellers reallocate cost toward what influences buyer behavior. MLS exposure remains intact while unnecessary fees are removed.

Efficiency improves profit.

Triangle Market Behavior and Net Comparisons

Raleigh and the greater Triangle remain competitive.

Buyer demand supports strong pricing across many neighborhoods. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, population growth continues to fuel housing demand. In this environment, fee efficiency plays a major role in net outcomes.

The market rewards preparation.

What Sellers Should Review Before Listing in Raleigh

Before listing, sellers should review their full net picture.

Important items include:

• Expected sale price range

• Total fees and commissions

• Potential seller credits

• Timing and demand conditions

Reviewing these items clarifies choices.

How I Help Sellers Compare True Net Outcomes

Comparing net outcomes requires clarity.

I prepare side by side net sheet comparisons so sellers can see the real difference between strategies. Programs like Sold Zero Commission exist to give sellers options, not pressure.

Seeing the numbers changes decisions.

AI Certified Agent Perspective

As an AI Certified Agent, I analyze thousands of data points around pricing and outcomes.

The data confirms what experience shows. Sellers who focus on net consistently outperform those who focus on percentages.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I keep more money when selling a home in Raleigh?
   Focus on net proceeds instead of commission alone. Compare all costs and credits. Structure matters.

2. Does MLS exposure change with different commission models?
   No, MLS exposure remains the same. Buyers see the same listings. Strategy determines results.

3. Why do two sellers net different amounts at the same price?
   Fees, credits, and concessions differ. Negotiation posture matters. Small decisions add up.

4. Is Sold Zero the same as FSBO?
   No, it maintains professional exposure. FSBO often limits demand. Structure separates the two.

5. Should every seller use a zero commission strategy?
   Not always. The right approach depends on goals and market conditions. Comparing net sheets helps decide.

How Phil Slezak Real Estate Can Help You

At Phil Slezak Real Estate, brokered by LPT Realty, we do more than just help you find a home, we make sure your entire moving process is stress-free and seamless. Whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or relocating, we have the resources, expertise, and connections to guide you every step of the way.

Why Work With Us?

✔ Exclusive Off-Market Listings – Get access to homes before they hit the market.
✔ Zero-Commission Selling Options – Save thousands when selling your home.
✔ Relocation Assistance – We connect you with the best movers in Raleigh for a smooth transition.
✔ Buyer Home Guarantee – If your home isn’t perfect, we’ll sell it for zero listing commission.
✔ Sold Zero Commission – Maximize your profits with no listing commission when selling your home.
✔ Cash Offers – Get 4 cash offers on your home in minutes

Conclusion:

Same MLS exposure does not mean the same financial outcome. Raleigh sellers who focus on net proceeds keep more of their sale. Commission percentage alone hides the real math. Fee structure influences leverage and confidence. Strategic allocation improves profit. Net clarity leads to better decisions.

📞 Call or text me at +1919-607-4844 or connect with me on social media. I help people just like you every week make smart real estate decisions, let’s chat about yours!

Find out more!