Technically, commission rates are always negotiable. But it may be easier to negotiate with a Worth Clark Realty agent than with a realtor from a traditional brokerage, especially if you don't need all the services a traditional agent usually provides.

However, Worth Clark Realty doesn't guarantee a lower commission rate than the standard 2.5–3%. On a $500,000 home sale, 3% would cost you $15,000. Other companies can connect you with realtors who offer full service for half that cost.

If you want guaranteed savings when you sell, Clever Real Estate can help. Clever's top agents provide the same comprehensive support you’d expect from traditional realtors. The difference is that every agent offers a listing fee of just 1.5% — saving sellers an average of $7,000. Find top-rated agents who can sell your home for half the traditional commission rate.

Worth Clark Realty overview

Services

Worth Clark Realty advertises customized seller services, including listing, marketing, and overall sales strategies.[1] However, many agents customize these services to a seller's specific house and situation, so it's unclear what unique benefits Worth Clark Realty provides in this area.

Its full-service listing agents offer:

• A comparative market analysis (CMA)
• Home staging and pre-listing guidance
• Marketing through its Realtor network, MLS listing, and 280+ websites
• Email campaigns (as needed)
• Home showings and follow-ups with interested buyers
• Negotiations with potential buyers
• Assistance with closing paperwork

The company also offers a Happiness Guarantee that allows sellers to cancel their contract at any time through written notice — with no strings attached.[1] This is a unique benefit, since most contracts include fees for canceling before the contract expires.

Another departure from traditional brokerages is the option for à la carte services, presumably for a lower cost.[1] This can go as far as solely providing a listing on the multiple listing service (MLS) and leaving the rest to the seller, at which point the company operates as a flat fee MLS service.

For buyers, full-service agents typically offer help with:

• Balancing budgets and wishlists with current home inventory and financing choices
• Accessing MLS listings
• Scheduling showings and viewing properties
• Pinpointing your offer amount
• Negotiating and counteroffering
• Coordinating with other parties in the home-buying process, such as inspectors and lenders
• Navigating inspections and appraisals
• Proceeding through closing

Worth Clark Realty also helps landlords with tenant placement and facilitates commercial real estate sales.[2][3]

Commission rate

If you opt for a traditional home sale, you’ll receive a customized commission rate after a market analysis. Commissions are based on the services you want, your home’s price and condition, and your local market. If you want full service, your rate likely won't be far from the typical commission rate of 2.5–3% of the final sale price. Nationally, the average listing fee is 2.82%. For lower rates, you'll likely have to sacrifice some services.

As a seller, you'll likely also pay for the buyer's agent fee, which averages 2.75% nationwide.

Sellers previously set the commission rate for buyer’s agents, advertised it in their MLS listings, and covered the fee at closing. But following a settlement with the National Association of Realtors (NAR), buyers now negotiate the commission directly with their agent and include it in their contract. Sellers are still covering the buyer’s agent commission, only now it's offered via a concession instead of upfront.

You’re always free to negotiate the realtor commission. And since Worth Clark takes a custom approach to setting commission rates, you may have more success. However, the company doesn't guarantee lower rates for comprehensive support.

If you want to pay less while still getting full service, consider an alternative like Clever Real Estate. With Clever, you’ll still work with a top-rated local agent, but with a pre-negotiated listing fee of 1.5% instead of 3%. You’ll get the same comprehensive support, and keep thousands more in your pocket.

Worth Clark Realty agents

Generally, Worth Clark Realty maintains a high standard of agent quality.

The company has more than 1,100 agents across 19 states. This is more limited coverage than some traditional brokerages, so it's important to make sure your agent is an expert in your market. Local knowledge is important because it allows agents to accurately price homes, identify desirable neighborhoods, anticipate market trends, and negotiate effectively on your behalf.

The brokerage invests in its agents’ growth and success through tech and marketing support, training and mentorship programs, and dedicated support teams. Overall, customer reviews praise the agents' knowledge and service.

You can find an agent directly on the company’s website, where profiles often highlight experience, specialties, and recent listings. However, there’s no easy way to filter the agent list to see who’s in your area. You have to scroll through the pages or contact the company directly to be matched.

Ultimately, your experience will come down to the individual agent, not the brokerage’s brand or systems. It’s recommended to interview at least 2–3 agents before making a choice. Look for a real estate agent with proven local knowledge, relevant experience, strong communication skills, and positive customer reviews.

Worth Clark Realty reviews from customers

Worth Clark Realty reviews are generally positive, with an average rating of 4.4/5 across 349 reviews.

However, they offer a limited representation of the company. Most reviews on both Google and Yelp are for the Chesterfield office. Three other offices are reviewed on Google, while Yelp has more office and agent profiles, but most of them have one or no reviews.

If you’re considering working with a Worth Clark Realty agent, it’s best to review ratings for the specific location and realtor, and to interview multiple agents to find the right fit.

Most happy clients praise their agents’ deep market knowledge, strong communication, and support throughout the buying or selling process. They note that agents are patient, responsive, and skilled at identifying issues that could sway the final decision.

Worth Clark Realty has a few recent negative reviews, mostly describing inconsistent communication or follow-through with an individual agent. However, there aren’t enough unfavorable reviews to draw general conclusions about the company or its agents.

Here are some examples of what Worth Clark Realty clients are saying.

✅ Highly experienced and detail-oriented agents

Many reviewers appreciated that their agents pointed out potential risks and red flags, helping them make informed buying decisions.

✅ Strong communication and support

Homeowners commonly praised Worth Clark agents for their patience and responsiveness throughout every step of the homebuying or selling process.

⚠️ Inconsistent service from some agents (in some cases)

A few reviewers reported issues with agents who were difficult to reach or failed to follow through.

Credibility: Is Worth Clark Realty legit?

Worth Clark Realty is a legitimate and well-established real estate brokerage. Founded in 2009 by Bryan Bowles, the company has steadily grown and now completes thousands of transactions annually. Its stable growth signals strong demand and reinforces its credibility with buyers and sellers.

The brokerage also earns top marks in the industry. RealTrends ranks it among the Top 50 Private Independent Brokerages by production, and it has consistently climbed T3 Sixty’s Mega 1000 list over the last few years, reflecting its continued momentum.

Worth Clark Realty and its agents must hold active real estate licenses in every state where they do business. Some agents display their license number on their Worth Clark profile. You can verify their license status through your state’s Department of Real Estate website.

Bottom line: Is Worth Clark Realty right for you?

Worth Clark Realty could be right for you if you’re looking for a traditional, full-service agent or an à la carte approach with customized fees. The company generally provides high-quality services and agents.

While the brokerage has a good reputation, it has over a thousand agents, and their quality can vary. It's wise to compare several realtors before signing a contract to ensure you find the one that best meets your needs.

If you want the best value — full service and significant savings on realtor fees — consider interviewing agents from a low-commission brokerage, too.

Companies like Clever Real Estate work with top agents from name-brand brokerages like Keller Williams and RE/MAX. These agents deliver traditional services for less — a 1.5% listing fee instead of the standard 3%. Sellers save an average of $7,000 without compromising on quality or expertise.

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In this article, we explain what real estate agents do, how much they earn, the different types of agents, and whether you should hire one. We’ll also walk through the steps to becoming an agent if you’re considering a career in real estate yourself.

If you’re looking for help now, Clever Real Estate can help you connect with top-rated local agents who provide full service — and sellers can save thousands with a pre-negotiated 1.5% listing fee.

What is a simple definition of a real estate agent?

A real estate agent is a licensed professional who represents buyers, sellers, or renters in real estate transactions. They help clients price homes, search for properties, negotiate deals, complete paperwork, and navigate the legal and logistical steps involved in transferring real estate.

What do real estate agents do?

What real estate agents do for sellers

Listing agents handle the entire selling process from start to finish, offering pricing expertise, marketing, negotiation skills, and transaction management. Common responsibilities include:

• Pricing the home accurately. Agents prepare a comparative market analysis (CMA) to estimate your home’s value based on recent nearby sales, local trends, and current competition.
• Guiding prep and improvements. They recommend repairs, staging strategies, or inexpensive updates that can help your home sell faster and for more money.
• Marketing the property. Agents list the home on the multiple listing service (MLS), coordinate professional photos, host open houses, and promote the listing across major real estate websites and social media.
• Managing showings and communication. They coordinate tours, respond to buyer inquiries, and provide feedback so you understand how the market is reacting.
• Negotiating offers. Agents help you evaluate offers, negotiate price and terms, and advocate for your best interests throughout the process.
• Handling contracts and closing. They guide you through paperwork, inspections, appraisals, and timelines to ensure a smooth closing.

What real estate agents do for buyers

Buyer’s agents help clients find the right home and navigate the complexities of making an offer and closing a deal. They typically:

• Identify suitable homes. Agents filter listings based on your needs, budget, and preferences, sometimes accessing homes before they hit the market.
• Spot red flags. They recognize potential issues with a property’s condition, pricing, or resale value.
• Write and negotiate offers. Agents help you craft competitive offers, negotiate pricing and concessions, and structure terms that protect your interests.
• Coordinate inspections and due diligence. They assist in scheduling inspections, reviewing reports, and advising next steps.
• Manage paperwork and timelines. Agents ensure deadlines are met and documents are completed accurately to avoid delays or legal issues.

What real estate agents do for renters

Some markets rely heavily on rental agents to help renters find available homes or apartments. Rental agents may:

• Match renters with appropriate properties. They help renters find units that fit their budget, needs, and location preferences.
• Coordinate showings. Agents schedule and host property tours for prospective tenants.
• Help with applications and approval. They assist renters with paperwork, screening requirements, and negotiating lease terms.

What do real estate agents make?

Real estate agents earn money primarily through commissions — a percentage of the home’s sale price, paid when the transaction closes. They typically do not earn hourly wages or salaries, so their income depends on the number and size of the transactions they complete.

In the U.S., the current average commission rate is 2.82% for listing agents and 2.75% for buyer's agents.

To put the percentages into real numbers, here’s what an agent could earn on a $500,000 home:

• At 2.5%, the agent would earn $12,500
• At 3%, the agent would earn $15,000

An agent’s income varies based on location, years of experience, number of transactions, specialty (residential vs. commercial), and their brokerage’s commission split. Newer agents often earn less because they close fewer deals, while experienced agents may earn significantly more — especially those who handle higher-priced properties or repeat referrals.

Commission rates can be lower if a client has leverage to negotiate fee reductions, like selling in a hot market or having a very desirable home.

Another option sellers have is to work with a low-commission brokerage. The top companies, like Clever Real Estate, guarantee rates as low as 1.5% while still offering full service from vetted agents. On a $500,000 house, that rate would save you $7,500 compared to 3%.

» Learn more about how commissions work and who pays.

Types of real estate agents

Real estate agent vs. Realtor

"Real estate agent" is a term for anyone with a license to arrange real estate transactions. "Realtor" is technically reserved for members of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), and written as REALTOR®, in all-caps, with the registered symbol.

NAR is a private trade association founded to advance the interests of real estate professionals. It currently has around 1.4 million members, more than two-thirds of all active U.S. real estate licensees.

So many agents are members of NAR that the word "realtor" — with a lowercase "R" — is often used as a generic term for real estate agents. However, officially, an agent must join NAR to become a REALTOR®.

In addition to the right to use the REALTOR® trademark, members receive benefits like access to exclusive tools and resources, networking opportunities, professional development, and group rates on insurance and other products.

Although most agents are REALTORS®, NAR is a private organization — not a licensing board. Membership is not necessary for an agent to practice real estate. Moreover, REALTOR® membership is open to any real estate professional, including non-agents.

Real estate agent vs. broker

A real estate broker is an agent with an "upgraded" license that authorizes them to perform certain duties agents with "basic" licenses can't, including opening their own brokerage and supervising other agents.

Broker licenses require additional education and experience compared to entry-level licenses. While new agents can typically get licensed after spending as few as 40 hours in a classroom and passing an exam, aspiring brokers must work as a full-time agent for multiple years before they're eligible to sit for the licensing exam.

Note: In some contexts, "broker" may mean "real estate brokerage" — a company that mediates real estate transactions between buyers and sellers.

Real estate agent vs. salesperson

There’s no practical difference between a real estate agent and a real estate salesperson — the terms are interchangeable.

Both refer to entry-level license holders who are authorized to assist clients with buying and selling real estate, but who must work under the supervision of a licensed broker.

Most states technically use the word salesperson for this license type, but in everyday language, people almost always say real estate agent. Agents/salespeople can’t work independently; they must affiliate with a broker, brokerage, or real estate agency.

The key distinction is between an agent/salesperson and a real estate broker.

Brokers hold a more advanced license, have additional experience and education, and are allowed to work independently, supervise agents, and often own or manage brokerages. Many agents remain in the salesperson role throughout their careers, while others eventually upgrade to a broker license to take on leadership or management responsibilities.

Real estate agent specializations

Real estate is a broad career field, so many experienced agents choose to specialize in a particular niche.

Here are some common specialties and relevant certifications:

• Luxury home specialist — Certifications like the Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS)
• Commercial real estate agent — May pursue CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member) training
• Buyer specialist — Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR)
• Seller/listing specialist — Seller Representative Specialist (SRS)
• Relocation specialist — Certified Relocation Professional (CRP)
• Green or energy-efficient homes — NAR’s Green Designation
• Property management — Certifications like CPM (Certified Property Manager)
• Short sale and foreclosure — Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource (SFR)
• Senior real estate specialist — Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES)
• Land and farm sales — Accredited Land Consultant (ALC)

Representation

The type of agent can also depend on who they represent in the transaction:

• A listing agent represents the seller's interests exclusively.
• A buyer's agent represents the buyer's interests exclusively.
• A dual agent represents both the seller and buyer in one single transaction. This isn’t something that is usually set up ahead of time. Instead, dual agency typically happens by chance, when a listing/seller’s agent ends up finding a buyer for their client. Thus, in the transaction involving that one property, the agent becomes a “dual” agent.
• Designated agency means that, within one transaction, the seller’s agent and the buyer’s agent are both represented by the same agency or brokerage. This is different from dual agency, where one agent represents both sides of a transaction.
• A transaction agent mediates a transaction between the seller and buyer but officially represents neither of them.

Do I need to hire a real estate agent?

Hiring an experienced real estate agent is wise whenever you buy or sell a home. Real estate transactions are complex financial decisions, and having an expert to guide you greatly increases your chances of a smooth, successful outcome.

For buyers, an agent makes the process far easier. About 90% of buyers say their biggest challenges are finding the right home, staying on top of paperwork, or understanding the purchase process — all of which are simpler with a professional on your side. Plus, the seller usually covers the buyer's agent fee.

For sellers, agents are an investment that often pays off. While selling your home yourself (FSBO) may seem cost-effective, FSBO sellers typically net a median of $55,000 less than those who work with agents.[15] Experienced agents help you price, market, and negotiate your home for maximum value, making their commission well worth it.

We recommend finding ways to save on your home sale without cutting corners, including working with a top agent who offers a lower commission rate.

How to become a real estate agent

Becoming a real estate agent involves completing state-required education, passing an exam, and affiliating with a licensed brokerage. While requirements vary by state, the overall process is similar nationwide.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Meet your state's basic requirements. You’ll need to meet your state’s minimum age requirement (usually 18 or 19) and have legal authorization to work in the U.S. Some states also require a high school diploma or equivalent.
2. Complete pre-licensing education. Before taking the licensing exam, you must complete a state-approved course that covers real estate law, contracts, financing, ethics, and other foundational concepts.
3. Pass your state's licensing exam. This exam tests national and state-specific real estate knowledge. Many states allow multiple attempts, but you must pass both sections to earn your license.
4. Find a broker who will “sponsor” your license. New agents must work under a licensed broker who provides supervision, training, and access to essential tools. Many brokerages offer mentorship programs for new agents.
5. Submit your application and pay licensing fees. Once you complete your education and pass the exam, you submit an application to your state’s licensing board along with the required fees.
6. Complete continuing education to maintain your license. Most states require ongoing coursework every renewal cycle to ensure agents stay current on laws, ethics, and market practices.

State-by-state guide

FAQ

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You can work with multiple realtors, but only when they’re collaborating — such as a co-listing or an agent team — or when they’re handling separate transactions (e.g., one agent sells your home while a different agent helps you buy a new one).

What you can’t do is hire multiple agents to compete for the same deal. In nearly every market, that’s a contract violation and often leads to confusion and legal disputes.

For most people, choosing one strong, experienced agent is the safest path.

An easy way to find one is through a free service like Clever Real Estate. Clever vets agents across the U.S. and can match you with top performers in your area. You can compare profiles, interview as many agents as you like, and only move forward if someone feels like the right fit. Just answer a few quick questions to get matched.

Can you have more than one realtor?

Whether you can work with multiple agents depends almost entirely on what you’ve signed or agreed to, and what type of transaction you’re in.

When it’s not legal or allowed

In many cases, you cannot hire multiple agents at the same time because your contract gives one agent exclusive rights to represent you.

These are common agreements that prevent hiring a second agent:

• Exclusive right-to-sell listing agreement (sellers): This is the standard listing agreement. Once you sign it, your listing agent has the exclusive right to market the property and earn a commission if it sells. Hiring another agent during this period violates the contract.
• Exclusive buyer agency agreement (buyers): Some buyers sign contracts giving one agent the exclusive right to represent them. Trying to work with a second buyer’s agent may breach the agreement.
• Verbal agreements may still matter (state-dependent): In some states, even a verbal promise to work exclusively with an agent can create enforceable obligations. Buyers and sellers should assume that once they’ve committed to someone, switching gets complicated.

Violating an agreement can lead to commission claims or legal disputes, liability for paying two agents, or difficulties closing a transaction if both agents claim to be the “procuring cause.”

Multiple listing service (MLS) restrictions also block dual representation. The MLS (database of listings) doesn't allow a property to be listed by two agents at the same time. If two agents try to enter the same listing into the database, the MLS can reject it or flag it for violation of local rules.

When it’s legal to have more than one realtor

Certain types of contracts don’t restrict you to a single agent, though finding agents who agree to this is often difficult.

Open listing agreements (sellers): An open listing allows the seller to work with multiple listing agents at the same time. Whoever finds the buyer earns the commission. However:

• Most agents avoid open listings because there's a high risk of not getting paid
• Agents who accept them typically invest far less time and money into marketing
• Service quality is usually lower

Co-listing arrangements (sellers): A co-listing involves two agents — usually from the same brokerage — who jointly market the home and split the commission. This is usually done when:

• Both agents bring different strengths (e.g., luxury or local neighborhood expertise)
• One agent is mentoring a new agent
• Sharing responsibilities allows agents more time to provide better service to their clients

Non-exclusive buyer agreements (buyers): Some buyer contracts are non-exclusive, allowing a buyer to work with multiple agents. This is more common:

• In competitive rental markets
• With relocation clients exploring multiple areas
• With buyers unsure about committing to one agent

Still, many agents decline non-exclusive buyers because they can invest hours into showings and never be paid if another agent writes the offer.

Working with an agent team: Large teams operate collaboratively. You may interact with multiple agents for showings, paperwork, and negotiations. This is allowed because they operate under one brokerage or group and under one contract.

Why having more than one realtor is usually a bad idea

Aside from co-listings and team settings, using multiple agents for the same deal nearly always backfires. Some reasons include:

• Inconsistent communication and guidance. Two agents who aren’t coordinating can give conflicting recommendations, send overlapping updates, or move at different speeds. This often results in duplicate showings, contradictory market reports, and uncertainty about whose guidance to trust.
• Lower agent motivation. Agents invest significant time, money, and effort into their clients. If they believe they’re competing with another agent for the same commission, they may deprioritize your listing or search because the odds of getting paid are low.
• Risk of commission disputes. If both agents feel they were the “procuring cause” of the sale, you may find yourself caught between competing claims, sometimes owing commission to both.
• Conflicting strategies. Agents may disagree on pricing, negotiation tactics, marketing plans, or timing. Instead of getting “double the expertise,” you get two competing playbooks that make it harder to move confidently.
• No added benefit for most people. Whether you’re buying or selling, one strong agent can provide all the strategic support you need. A second agent often just duplicates the same outreach, analyses, and recommendations, without offering any real advantage.

Situations where using multiple agents can make sense

Having two competing agents for one transaction (e.g., two listing agreements for the same property) is almost never workable. However, using multiple agents across different transactions, properties, or specialties is normal, and sometimes essential.

Here are situations where working with more than one agent makes sense:

• Using one agent to sell and another to buy. It’s common to use different agents for each side of your move. One may be a strong listing strategist, while another may specialize in buyer representation. If you’re staying in the same market, using the same agent for both can be an advantage — they already understand your needs and timeline — but it's not required.
• Managing multiple properties at once. Investors or homeowners with more than one property often use different agents so no single agent becomes overwhelmed, which can slow results.
• Handling different types of real estate. Residential agents, luxury specialists, investment-focused agents, and commercial brokers all work differently. If your transactions span categories, you may need distinct agents with expertise in each.
• Working across different geographic markets. If you're selling in one state and buying in another, you’ll usually need separate agents since agents are licensed by state. Even across counties or metro areas, local expertise can vary widely.
• When your current relationship is stalling (but you’re still under an exclusive contract). If you’re unhappy with your current agent, you can interview others while waiting for your agreement to expire or be formally terminated. You can't hire the new agent until the first contract is canceled.
• Co-listings and teams. These scenarios involve multiple agents, but under one contract and working collaboratively. They add value because the agents coordinate, rather than compete.

Alternatives to using two agents

If you're thinking about doubling up to get better results, consider these options instead:

• Interview multiple agents upfront. Compare strategies, reviews, references, communication styles, and experience before signing anything. This is the easiest way to avoid choosing the wrong agent.
• Ask your current agent for improvements. Great agents welcome feedback. If you’re not satisfied with your service, be direct. Ask for more frequent updates, clearer pricing strategies, adjusted marketing, or better communication.
• Terminate the contract (or wait it out). If you’re under contract and unhappy, request termination. If the agent won’t agree, you may need to wait for the agreement to expire. You can also contact the managing broker for help.

How to terminate a contract with an agent

Terminating depends on your contract type and state laws, but the general steps are simple:

1. Review your agreement. Look for cancellation clauses or fees.
2. Request termination in writing. Explain why you want to end the relationship.
3. Wait for formal release paperwork. You can't start working with someone else until this is signed.
4. Document communication. Keep records in case disputes arise.

Just be aware that some agreements include cancellation fees, especially for sellers.

For more in-depth info, read our guide on how to terminate a contract with your real estate agent.

Why your best bet is usually one great agent

Most buyers and sellers succeed with one strong, experienced agent because:

• You get consistent communication
• Your agent is fully motivated
• There’s no confusion over contracts or commission
• You avoid delays caused by disputes
• You receive clear, unified advice for your goals

So, how do you find the best real estate agent for your situation? Here are a few qualities to look for:

• Deep experience in your local market
• Strong negotiation and marketing skills
• A communication style that fits your needs
• Strong reviews, references, and proven results
• A strategy tailored to the type of home you’re buying or selling

If you want an easy, low-risk way to find the right agent, Clever Real Estate can match you with several vetted, top-performing local agents. You can interview as many as you’d like, with no obligation to sign. Just answer a few short questions to get connected with trustworthy realtors near you — for free.

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If your agent is unethical or failing to meet contractual obligations, you’ll usually have stronger grounds for cancellation. But if you're simply unhappy with the experience, ending the contract early may come with fees — or may not be possible at all.

If you're considering ending the relationship, here’s how the process works and what you can expect.

Need a new realtor? A free service like Clever Real Estate can match you with top local agents who have been vetted for performance and client satisfaction. These agents charge a low 1.5% listing fee while still providing full service, which means you can find the right realtor and save thousands.

Can a seller cancel a real estate contract?

Yes — but the terms for doing so depend on your specific contract.

Most residential listing agreements are exclusive right-to-sell or exclusive agency. Both are bilateral contracts, meaning both parties must perform. Your agreement should include details about:

• How long the contract lasts (usually 2–6 months)
• The services your agent must provide
• Any early termination or cancellation fee
• How to request termination

The easiest cancellations are tied to performance issues, such as poor communication, lack of marketing, missed deadlines, or unethical behavior. These concerns can give you a stronger case for release.

If the contract is close to expiring, waiting it out may be the simplest solution.

How to cancel a real estate contract

1. Review your contract

Look for sections on cancellation, fees, and required notice. Some agreements include:

• A flat or percentage-based cancellation fee
• Required written notice
• A minimum service period before cancellation is allowed

2. Document your concerns

Be clear about why you’re requesting termination, especially if it’s performance-related. Email is ideal because it creates a dated paper trail.

3. Talk to your agent

Explain your concerns directly. A civil conversation often leads to an amicable solution — including reassignment to another agent within the same brokerage. Since your contract is with the brokerage, a switch may be easier than ending the agreement outright.

4. Escalate to the broker

If your agent denies your request, reach out to the managing broker. Provide documentation showing that the agent failed to meet expectations or the terms of the agreement.

After reviewing your documentation, the broker will decide whether the agent failed to meet expectations or contractual duties. They may offer mediation, assign you to another agent, or approve an early cancellation. If they believe the agent met their obligations, they may deny the request and enforce the remaining terms of the contract, including any cancellation fees.

5. Consider legal help

If the brokerage refuses to cancel the listing, you may consult a real estate attorney. However, there’s no guarantee a lawyer can force a cancellation, and their attorney fees may outweigh the benefit of ending the contract early.

Top reasons sellers cancel a real estate contract

Not all reasons justify cancellation, but these are the most common and most legitimate.

• Poor or inconsistent communication: You should receive prompt updates, responses, and feedback. If your agent repeatedly misses calls, delays responses, or makes decisions without you, it may be grounds for termination.
• Weak marketing or no online exposure: Listings should appear on the multiple listing service (MLS) and major platforms like Zillow and Realtor.com. Lack of exposure signals poor marketing follow-through.
• Low-quality photographs or staging: Professional photos are standard in modern real estate marketing. Dark, cluttered, or unprofessional images can seriously harm your sale. Staging helps rooms look larger, cleaner, and more inviting, which leads to stronger photos and better first impressions online.
• Missed deadlines or limited effort: If your agent misses listing dates, delays showings, or fails to execute agreed-upon tasks, it undermines your ability to sell.
• Personality conflict: While not a contractual violation, a major personality clash can make the process stressful. Many brokers will allow a reassignment to another agent at their brokerage, even if they won’t cancel the contract.
• Unethical behavior: Examples include misrepresenting offers, changing commission terms without your consent, or violating fair housing or state regulations. These issues typically justify immediate cancellation.

Why you might not be able to cancel a real estate contract

Cancellation may be denied if:

• The agent has fulfilled their contractual duties
• Your reason is financial (e.g., switching to a lower-commission agent)
• You’re trying to avoid paying commission after the agent generated a ready, willing, and able buyer
• You attempt to sell privately to someone introduced during the listing period

Most listing agreements include a protection period: if a buyer who saw your home through the agent purchases it after cancellation, the agent is still owed commission.

What happens if you violate the terms of the contract?

Violations typically involve breaching the terms of the listing agreement — for example, selling privately to a buyer your agent introduced, refusing to allow showings, or canceling without following required notice periods. Even pulling the listing off the market without the broker’s approval can count as a violation if the agreement requires mutual consent.

Consequences vary by contract but often include paying an early termination fee or reimbursing the brokerage for expenses like photography, marketing, and MLS fees. In more serious situations — such as selling to a buyer the agent procured — you may still owe the full commission, even if the home is no longer listed.

If the breach is significant, the brokerage may also pursue legal action to recover fees or commissions. While lawsuits are less common due to cost and time, demand letters and formal collection efforts are more typical when the contract clearly outlines the seller’s obligations and financial responsibilities.

How to avoid needing to cancel a real estate contract

The best prevention is careful vetting before signing:

• Interview at least 2–3 agents
• Ask about communication style, pricing strategy, and marketing plan
• Ensure your personalities align
• Request a comparative market analysis (CMA) and ask how they set list prices

A service like Clever Real Estate can help you find realtors to interview by introducing you to top-performing agents who have the right experience for your sale.

You can compare great options upfront — not get stuck with the wrong fit — and, as a major bonus, pay only half the traditional listing fee. Sellers save an average of $7,000 without sacrificing service or quality.

FAQ

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Listing Agreements: Read This Before You Sign

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The post Can a Seller Cancel a Real Estate Contract? Yes. Here's How. appeared first on Clever Real Estate.

According to one recent Clever study, more than half of buyers (52%) say they attempted to negotiate with their seller, and 94% said they were successful. A personal appeal in the form of an offer letter can be one of the most effective negotiating tools at your disposal, and it’s free. 

Here’s how to write an offer letter for a house, a letter to the seller example you can use, and the pros and cons of writing a buyer's letter to the seller. 

What is a "letter to the seller"?

A "letter to the seller" is a personalized offer letter to the seller of the home written by the buyer. Buyers use this tactic to win over the owner of a home and set themselves apart from the other bidders. This is a great strategy to use whether you’re making an offer without an agent or with the assistance of a realtor.

A personalized letter to the seller is an opportunity to connect to the seller by appealing to their emotions. 

For example, an elderly couple looking to downsize from their longtime family home may be more willing to sell to a prospective buyer who makes it clear through their offer letter that they plan to take good care of the property and raise their own family there.

A Reddit user recently posted about using this dynamic to win a bidding war. They were told that the seller had a preference for a young family over a non-occupant buyer who’d rent out the house, so they wrote a personal letter telling the seller that they wanted to raise their children there. The seller selected them over an all-cash offer from an investor who wanted to rent the place.

How to write an offer letter for a house

An effective offer letter is personalized, positive, specific, and emotionally appealing. Let’s go over some tips on how to write an offer letter to a seller for a house.

Introduce yourself.

Tell the seller about you and the other people who’ll be living with you. Stress anything you might have in common. You want to give them an image of you that’s more specific than just the amount of your offer. 

Compliment the house.

The house should be the centerpiece of the letter. Homeowners usually have things they love about their home and it often flatters them to hear you feel the same way. The letter shouldn’t just tell the seller how much you want the offer accepted, but why you want that particular house. It may be their kitchen, or garden, or sun porch that grabbed your attention — whatever it is, mentioning it in your letter is a great way of building rapport with the seller.

Do your research on the area.

Mention any neighborhood features or amenities that appeal to you, from the school district, to nearby green spaces, neighbors you may know, proximity to your job, or other attractions. 

Get the timing right.

Make sure you’re pre-approved for a mortgage before you write your offer letter to the seller. The letter won’t be very convincing if you don’t have the financing to back it up.

Be specific.

Don’t just say the home is beautiful; talk about specific features that appealed to you, like aspects of the interior, certain rooms, or architectural features. 

Remember to draw a direct connection between you and your family and the house. Instead of just talking about how beautiful the backyard is, talk about how your children would enjoy playing in the backyard. 

Don’t be pushy.

Be persuasive, be personal, be specific—but don’t be too pushy. Expressing appreciation and hope is fine, but don’t beg or make demands. And don’t lay the emotion on too thick—sellers may resent feeling like they’re being manipulated. 

Print a hard copy.

While emails are convenient, they may not showcase the effort put into the letter. Hard copies feel more personal. Printing a letter is usually enough, but a handwritten one can feel very personal. Some real estate agents even recommend leaving the letter on the seller’s kitchen counter before they leave the showing.

Pros and cons of writing a letter to the seller

While writing a letter to a seller can yield some great benefits, there are some potential drawbacks too. Here are some pros and cons of writing a buyer letter to the seller:

Pros

• It could distinguish you from other potential buyers. In a hot market, a home could get a dozen or more offers. Writing a personal letter helps you stand out from the crowd.
• It provides a non-financial aspect to your offer. If the seller is only looking at the numbers, the highest offer will win. But a letter can introduce a human factor that could help you prevail over offers that might be higher.

Cons

• It could backfire at the negotiating table. If the seller knows you’re in love with their house and that it’s the perfect fit for your family, they may feel they have a lot of leverage when it comes to negotiating things like repairs and contingencies.
• It could lead to accusations of illegal discrimination. If you disclose too much personal information, other potential buyers could accuse the seller of discrimination under the Fair Housing Act.
• Many sellers may not even read your letter. Because of the danger of discrimination, or simply because they only care about the amount of each offer, many sellers now ignore buyer letters.[16] On Reddit, many agents and sellers reported that they refuse to even entertain personal letters.

Sample offer letter to the seller

Dear Seller,

My husband and I had the privilege of walking through your house the other day and were very impressed! The way the full front porch overlooks your budding rosebushes brought us back to the house my husband lived in when we first met as kids.

As we continued to tour your house, it began to feel even more familiar — just like home. Every detail is perfect: from the wide staircase to the little nook in the kid's bedroom. It's clear from the swing in the yard and the pictures on the wall that many happy memories happened here.

A little about us: Tom and I met in the third grade and have been best friends ever since. We attended separate colleges, but would always spend school breaks at his grandparent's home, which looks very similar to yours! We've been married 13 years and have four children.

After touring the home ourselves, we immediately brought our kids here to see if this was the place. They were instantly smitten.

If you choose to accept our offer, please know that the home will be well cared for and loved. We are excited to raise our children in a place so filled with memories.

Thank you for taking the time to consider us.

Tom and Kate Williams

Why this letter to the seller works

Connection

There was a connection from the beginning as Kate mentioned her memories of a similar porch and rose garden, and finished up by telling the seller their home would be well cared for and loved. Throughout the letter, Kate continued to draw attention to the house's details and connected them to her own life.

A Reddit user recently wrote about successfully using this strategy. The seller had put in a unique garden and fish pond, and the buyer told them in a letter that they’d take good care of the plants and fish—the seller selected them even though there was another, higher offer. 

Specificity

Kate cited specific features of the house that the seller may have appreciated too— the wide staircase, the rosebushes, the nook in the bedroom. This kind of specificity proves that you’re being genuine.

Subtlety

The letter never asks or demands that the seller select them. It uses the phrase “If you choose to accept our offer,” which makes it clear that the choice lies with the seller. It’s not pushy or manipulative.

Should you write a letter to the seller? Get advice from a good agent.

A persuasive offer letter can be a great way to add value to your offer, and make you more than just another name and number on a contract. Appropriately done, a letter can tip the odds in the buyer’s favor. But providing too much information or acting too excited about the house can be risky.

Clever vets agents on your behalf so you can be confident you’re working with the best. We also pre-negotiate rates with our network so you can sell with Clever for 1.5% and get cash back when you buy. Your local Clever agent can help you navigate your home search, from looking at prospective properties, to writing an offer letter to the sellers, to negotiating price at closing, to getting you a lucrative home buyer rebate when you need cash the most. Enter your zip code to get matched with Clever agents in your area.

The post Letter to Seller: Example + How to Write a Good One appeared first on Clever Real Estate.

Americans' Holiday Spending | What Could Help Holiday Budgets | Blame for Rising Holiday Costs | Tariffs' Effects on Holiday Spending | Holiday Spending Debt | Where to Shop | Politics' Influence on Holiday Spending

Holiday shopping isn’t all fun and games. In fact, two-thirds of Americans (68%) say the holidays have become more financially stressful than joyful, according to a new Clever Real Estate poll of 1,000 Americans.

Over the past few years, persistent inflation has stretched household budgets as the cost of gifts has increased. But this holiday season, the financial pressure feels even greater, with 72% of Americans saying the economy is worsening as the holidays approach.

Sweeping tariffs have raised the price of toys and other goods, making it more difficult for Americans to find affordable options. At the same time, the temporary expiration of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits was a lasting financial blow — leaving many with less money for essentials and even less for holiday spending. 

Amid these financial challenges, more than 1 in 3 Americans (38%) say this is the first year they're worried about how they're going to afford holiday shopping.

A lack of disposable income has consumers tightening their budgets this holiday season. More than half of Americans (54%) intend to cut back this year, with the average shopper planning to spend $550 — down from $600 last year. 

Despite lowering their budgets, 40% of Americans say they still cannot comfortably afford gifts, and 75% wish there was less pressure to spend a lot of money during the holidays.

Keep reading to learn how high prices are impacting Americans' spending this holiday season.

Shoppers Plan to Spend Less This Holiday Season Because of Inflation

Americans have endured plenty of financial obstacles in 2025. 

From tariff-driven price increases to mass layoffs and the loss of government benefits, it's no surprise 41% of Americans say their finances aren't better than in 2024, and 55% are worried about money heading in to the holiday season. 

As a result, more than half of shoppers (54%) plan to reduce their holiday spending this year. Americans say they'll spend a median of $550 on gifts this year — down $50 from the $600 they spent in 2024.

The main reasons shoppers are cutting back on holiday spending in 2025 are:

• Inflation has made products too expensive (55%)
• They are cutting expenses (54%)
• They need to save more (47%)
• Tariffs have made products too expensive (38%)
• They spent too much last year (22%)
• They lost income (21%)
• Losing SNAP benefits negatively impacted their finances (15%)

Although many Americans plan on decreasing their holiday spending, 27% of those who are cutting back say they would be hurt if their family and friends spent less on gifts for them.

On the other end of the spectrum, 46% of Americans say they intend to spend the same amount or more on gifts this year, but many of those shoppers aren't doing so by choice. Nearly half (47%) say they have to spend more because inflation has increased the cost of goods and services.

Although many shoppers feel forced to stretch their budgets, others say they can absorb higher costs and spend more on holiday giving because:

• They have saved more money (27%)
• They have more income (21%)
• They decreased other expenses (13%)

Although most Americans are shopping this holiday season, others are simply opting out. Nearly 1 in 10 (9%) don't plan to do any holiday shopping in 2025.

Of those who aren't buying gifts, 50% say it's because they can't afford it. That's nearly double the next most common reason, which is that they never shop for the holidays (28%).

Americans may also forgo holiday shopping because:

• Inflation is too high (20%)
• They want to avoid crowds of other shoppers (9%)
• They don't have anyone to buy for (8%)
• They don't celebrate the holidays (7%)

Women Are Nearly 20% More Likely Than Men to Reduce Holiday Spending

As the holidays approach, women often take on the bulk of the planning, hosting, decorating, and gift giving. When prices rise, the responsibility to deliver a memorable holiday can feel heavier.

It's no wonder women (59%) are about 18% more likely than men (50%) to be concerned about their finances this holiday season.  

As a result, 57% of women plan to cut their holiday spending. Women intend to reduce their spending by 15% — from $600 in 2024 to $510 in 2025. 

Meanwhile, only 48% of men plan to trim their spending, and those who do expect to cut back by a much smaller margin — just a 5% drop from $630 in 2024 to $600 in 2025. 

Despite lowering their budget, only 55% of women say they can afford holiday spending this year, and 80% wish there was less pressure to spend a lot of money on gifts. For comparison, 69% and 67% of men feel the same, respectively. 

Financial concerns also tend to weigh heavily on younger generations during the holidays. While 41% of boomers say they're concerned about their finances this holiday season, that percentage jumps to 67% of millennials and 64% of Gen Z. 

Just because they're worried doesn't mean they'll change their spending habits, however. Millennials actually plan to spend the most of any generation — doling out $750 on gifts, which is $50 more than they reported spending last year. 

The extra spending could reflect the fact that many millennials need to buy more gifts for their young children, as well as their desire to maintain traditions and keep up with social expectations, even if prices are rising.

Gen Z also plans to increase their holiday spending this year, from $500 in 2024 to $550 in 2025.

Meanwhile, boomers plan to spend the least at $500, followed by Gen X at $540.

After spending $695 last year, Gen X plans to cut holiday spending by 22% — the largest decrease among all generations. This cautious approach likely reflects the dual financial pressures of supporting college-aged children and aging parents, prompting Gen X to be more careful with their discretionary spending during the holidays.

More Than Half of Americans Are Cutting Back on Holiday Spending to Afford Basic Living Expenses

Many Americans are finding it hard to muster much holiday cheer this year, with 72% saying the economy is worsening as the holidays approach. 

With little relief from rising costs, holiday shopping may feel like just another financial burden to struggling families. More than half of Americans (56%) are cutting back on holiday spending to afford basic living expenses, such as food, housing, or utilities.

The financial strain is even greater among the 25% of respondents who say they lost government benefits in 2025. Among those households, 77% say they are cutting back on holiday spending to afford the essentials — underscoring the critical role those programs play in helping families manage everyday costs and special occasions.

As families plan their holiday feasts, many will be hit hard by grocery prices, which have climbed nearly 30% since 2020. What's more, virtually all major grocery items are now more expensive than they were a year ago, with costs for some prices rising significantly because of tariffs. Coffee prices, for example, have jumped 20% in the past year, while beef has risen 19% in the same time period. 

In November, the Trump administration rolled back tariffs on some food products amid mounting pressure over prices, but it will take time before Americans see relief at the checkout line. With the holidays just around the corner, many shoppers don't have the luxury of waiting for prices to decrease. 

More than 2 in 3 Americans say lower grocery prices (69%) would help them this holiday season, as well as:

• Lower utility costs (50%)
• A pay increase or bonus (44%)
• Lower taxes (40%)
• Lower tariffs (38%)
• Lower health care costs (32%)
• Lower housing costs (30%)

About 1 in 4 Americans (24%) say another key way to ease financial pressure this holiday season is through SNAP benefits. Although benefits resumed in November after a temporary pause during the government shutdown, new laws are set to kick millions of people off the anti-hunger program in the coming months. 

Yet instead of cutting benefits, 60% of Americans actually support increasing SNAP benefits during the holiday season.

Families struggling to make ends meet may be forced to rely on the generosity of others this holiday season, but rising costs could deter the spirit of giving. Although a majority of Americans (55%) feel guilty for spending money on gifts when others can't afford essentials, fewer than half (49%) plan to donate money or gifts this holiday season.

Americans Are Most Likely to Blame the Trump Administration for High Prices This Holiday Season

Not even the Grinch managed to steal holiday cheer quite like this year’s high prices. Instead of blaming the curmudgeon from Whoville for rising costs this holiday season, shoppers are pointing the finger at the administration in Washington. 

Americans are most likely to hold the Trump administration responsible for the expensive holiday season. In fact, they are 2.5x more likely to blame the current Trump administration (30%) than the former Biden administration (12%) for this season's high prices. 

Meanwhile, about 1 in 4 Americans (28%) say inflation is the biggest contributor to high prices, and more than half of shoppers (54%) say they'll have to change their typical holiday spending habits this year because of it. 

Consumers are responding to inflation in contradictory ways. 

Some shoppers plan to spend less, with 55% of those people saying it's because inflation has made products too expensive. Meanwhile, others intend to spend more, with 47% saying they'll have to because inflation has raised the cost of items they plan to buy.

Although consumers have endured years of rising costs because of inflation, this holiday season feels particularly costly — prompting many to blame specific policies for the surge in prices. About 1 in 6 Americans (16%) blame high holiday prices on Trump's tariffs.

Nearly 3 in 4 Americans Believe Tariffs Will Make This the Most Expensive Holiday Season Yet

Whether it's clothing, electronics, or the hottest new toy, many of the season's go-to gifts are set to cost extra this year thanks to Trump's tariffs. 

The tariff rate varies significantly by country and product type, but some imported goods face duties as high as 40%. Much of this additional cost makes its way to consumers, with 71% of Americans saying they believe retailers pass the full cost of tariffs on to the public. 

It's no wonder another 71% of Americans say tariffs will increase the cost of gifts they plan to buy, and 72% say tariffs will make this the most expensive holiday season yet.

In response to tariffs, nearly half of Americans (46%) say they'll have to change their typical holiday shopping habits. If tariffs raise prices on imported items, Americans say they would most likely:

• Try to find a cheaper alternative (30%)
• Skip purchasing that item altogether (26%)
• Buy fewer gifts to afford it (20%)

Although the Trump administration has argued that tariffs create new incentives for consumers to buy domestic items, just 15% of shoppers say they would buy a similar, but more expensive, American-made product.

Not only do tariffs drive up the cost of holiday goods, they also limit what's available through prohibitive prices that reduce the supply of items in the market. More than half of Americans (56%) think tariffs will decrease the availability of gifts they plan to purchase this holiday season, potentially limiting options and making it difficult to find popular items. 

With concerns about product shortages, more than 1 in 3 Americans (37%) plan to start shopping for the holidays earlier than usual. In fact, more than half of Americans (52%) started shopping before Black Friday.

More than 1 in 4 Americans Worry They'll Go Into Debt Shopping for the Holidays

Despite rising prices and tighter budgets, 44% of Americans say they're willing to spend whatever it takes to make people happy for the holidays. 

With that mindset, there's no need to adhere to a financial plan, with 1 in 3 consumers (33%) saying they do not follow a budget when holiday shopping, making it more likely they'll lose track of their spending.

This behavior can make it all too easy for shoppers to go overboard, with nearly 2 in 3 (63%) saying they've overspent during the holiday season. 

It's no surprise, then, that more than 1 in 3 Americans (37%) have previously gone into debt shopping for the holidays. This year, about 1 in 4 (28%) are worried they will go into debt because of their holiday spending, with millennials (40%) and Gen Z (37%) twice as likely to have this concern compared to boomers (17%).

Shoppers may try to stay out of debt by paying with cash (55%), a debit card (52%), or a credit card they intend to pay off on time (45%). But just because credit card users plan to pay off their debt immediately doesn't mean they'll actually be able to.

Meanwhile, 1 in 7 Americans intend to shop for the holidays with buy now, pay later programs (14%) or a credit card they won't be able to pay off on time (14%). 

Of those who plan to take on credit card debt to buy gifts:

• 71% think they'll rack up more than $500 of debt.
• 50% think they'll rack up more than $1,000 of debt.
• 20% think they'll rack up more than $3,000 of debt.
• 16% think they'll rack up more than $5,000 of debt. 

A majority of Americans are confident they'll be able to pay off their debt from holiday shopping, but for many, it could take quite a while. 

Approximately 45% of consumers don't think they'll be able to pay off their holiday shopping debt within three months, 35% don't think they'll be able to pay it off within six months, and 23% don't think they'll be able to pay it off within one year.

What's more, 1 in 7 (14%) don't think they'll ever be able to pay off their debt from holiday shopping.

Although many shoppers acknowledge they spend too much during the holidays, few feel remorse. About 69% of Americans say they do not regret their holiday spending habits.

Younger generations, however, are the exception. Despite working with tighter budgets, they plan to spend more this holiday season than both boomers and Gen X, likely straining their finances and increasing the odds they'll later regret their purchases.

Gen Z (43%) and millennials (42%) are nearly 2x more likely than boomers (21%) to regret their holiday spending.

Where to Shop: More Than 60% of Americans Would Abandon Small Businesses for Cheaper Prices at Major Retailers

Finding the right gift is the No. 1 priority for holiday shoppers — even more important than buying gifts on sale and staying within budget. 

Americans slightly prefer shopping for the perfect gift in store (83%) rather than online (81%), but 66% plan to do a mix of online and in-person shopping.

About half of consumers (54%) will also split their spending between major retailers and small businesses — although Americans still widely prefer big-box chains. 

An overwhelming 91% say they will buy from major retailers, with 38% saying they will only shop at those stores. Meanwhile, 60% say they will shop at small businesses, but just 6% say they will shop there exclusively.

The preference for major retailers underscores the vulnerability of small businesses. Unlike larger stores, small businesses don't have the financial cushion to absorb higher costs from tariffs, which could force them to raise prices and push customers toward cheaper alternatives. 

About 61% of Americans say they would stop shopping at small businesses if big-box retailers offered significantly lower prices for similar products.

Meanwhile, some Americans are looking beyond traditional retailers for more budget-friendly places to find gifts. More than 1 in 7 Americans (15%) say they will buy gifts from charity shops, such as Goodwill or the Salvation Army, this holiday season.

1 in 4 Americans Will Avoid Shopping at Certain Retailers Because of Their Political Stance

Holidays typically tend to bring people together, but in today’s divided America, even gift giving has turned political as some consumers avoid brands that don't share their values.

One-fourth of Americans (25%) say they won't shop at some retailers because of their political stance, with Gen Z (34%) and millennials (29%) more likely to do so than boomers (19%).

More than half of consumers (56%) who plan to boycott some brands say they would feel uncomfortable receiving a gift from a retailer they oppose, and more than a third (37%) would judge their family members or friends for shopping there. 

Just 15% of the overall respondent pool would judge others' shopping choices, but younger generations tend to be more critical. Gen Z (24%) and millennials (23%) are about 3x more likely than boomers (8%) to judge where their friends and family shop. 

Principles matter, but so do prices. About 59% of Americans would buy an item from a retailer they don't politically agree with to save money. This includes 43% of people who previously said they wouldn't shop at retailers that have an opposing political stance.

Political boycotts of brands may seem more frequent in today's polarized society, but shoppers are more likely to avoid a retailer for practical reasons, such as bad customer service or a lack of transparent pricing.

Nearly half of consumers (46%) say they'd boycott a retailer for non-political reasons — almost double the 25% who would do so because of politics.

Methodology

Clever Real Estate surveyed 1,000 American adults on their views on holiday shopping amid current economic conditions.  This survey was conducted Oct. 29 to 30, 2025.

About Clever Real Estate

Since 2017, Clever Real Estate has been on a mission to make selling or buying a home easier and more affordable for everyone. 12 million annual readers rely on Clever's library of educational content and data-driven research to make smarter real estate decisions—and to date, Clever has helped consumers save more than $210 million on Realtor fees. Clever's research has been featured in The New York Times, Business Insider, Inman, Housing Wire, and many more.

More Research From Clever

Consumer Sentiment in 2025: Strong Concerns Over Inflation, Tariffs, Government Cuts

Barely a quarter of Americans feel better off economically now than in September 2024. See what tops their list of worries.

2025 Data: Half of Americans Have Credit Card Debt, and a Quarter Sink Deeper Every Month

Large numbers of Americans rely on credit cards as a key part of their financial lives, but many confess to racking up debt and indulging in risky spending.

Why Are Houses So Expensive? 2025 Data Shows Just Two Affordable U.S. Cities for Buying Homes

A new analysis reveals a dire picture of how many cities and states are unaffordable to homebuyers making typical local incomes.

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The post 2025 Holiday Shopping Data: Americans Are Cutting Spending Amid Inflation, Tariffs  appeared first on Clever Real Estate.

Use our home affordability calculator to find out how much house you can afford before you start shopping for one. It’s a smart way to calibrate your expectations—and save you from financial stress down the road. No matter how nice your house is, being house poor is never a fun life.

We’ll also cover what factors go into figuring out your ability to afford a home—including mortgage rates and your salary—and what levers you can pull to increase your buying power.

Home affordability calculator

How to use our home affordability calculator

Enter your information in the fields above to get an estimate of your home buying power, which is based on your monthly mortgage payments, debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, and upfront costs.

Our home affordability calculator works based on the 28/36 rule, which states that homebuyers shouldn’t spend more than 28% of their gross monthly income on housing costs and no more than 36% on total debts. The 28/36 rule is widely used by mortgage lenders and it’s essential to understand when you apply to prequalify for a mortgage.

You can still qualify for a loan if your total debts are up to around 43% of your gross income, although you may not get the best interest rates.

Here’s a breakdown of what each input field of the calculator means. 

• Annual income: This is your gross annual salary before taxes. If you have a co-buyer, enter their salary too. Your annual income is one of the main factors lenders consider when determining your ability to afford a mortgage, although it’s not the only financial consideration.
• Other income: Add any supplemental income you or your co-buyer may have, such as rental income, freelance work, or earnings from a side business.
• Location: Entering your city and state is important because property tax rates and insurance premiums vary substantially by location, directly impacting home affordability.
• Loan term: A 30-year mortgage is the most common option for homebuyers. However, you can also select a 15-year mortgage. Your loan term will have a significant impact on your principal and interest costs, with shorter terms leading to higher monthly principal payments but lower total interest paid over time.
• Down payment: Building a down payment is one of the most important steps to buying a home. Most homebuyers pay between 3% and 20%, with first-time buyers putting down 10% on average.[17] Note that if your down payment is under 20%, you’ll likely have to pay private mortgage insurance (PMI), which the calculator assumes is 1.1% of your home price annually.
• Monthly debt: This is your total monthly payments for non-housing debts, such as credit cards, car loans, student debt, spousal support, and child support.
• Property tax: The calculator uses the national average effective property tax rate. However, property tax rates vary substantially, so for a more accurate estimate research and input the current rate for your state, county, or municipality.
• Homeowner's insurance: We’ve prefilled the calculator with the national average homeowner’s insurance cost. Actual costs vary depending on location, home value, and other factors, so for a more accurate estimate find out what your insurance cost will likely be and input it above.
• HOA fees: If your new property has HOA fees, enter them here. Not all homes are part of a homeowners’ association, so leave this field blank if it doesn’t apply to you.
• Credit score: Enter your credit score here. Higher credit scores qualify for lower interest rates, which will have a big impact on affordability. If you have poor or moderate credit, consider taking some months before purchasing a home to improve your credit score, such as by making monthly payments and lowering your credit card utilization.

Other factors that impact affordability

Our home affordability calculator is a good starting point for determining how much house you can or cannot afford. However, there are other factors that go beyond the calculator that will affect your ability to afford a home.

• Employment history: Many lenders prefer borrowers who have at least two years of stable employment, either in the same field or with the same employer. Consistent income history shows an ability to pay back debts and reduces risk for lenders.
• Credit history red flags: Even if you have a good credit score, there could be issues on your credit report that may make lenders hesitant to lend to you. These can include bankruptcies, foreclosures, and multiple late payments. 
• Defaulted loans: Defaulting on past loans, such as auto loans or student loans, is a big concern for lenders. If you have any loan defaults, you may have to explain to your lender the circumstances around the defaults and why you’re a lower risk today.
• Tax liens or judgments: Tax liens don’t appear on credit reports, but they can still prevent you from qualifying for a mortgage.[18] Make sure all tax liens or judgments are resolved before applying for a home loan.
• Recent large purchases: Making a recent large purchase, such as financing a new car or applying for several credit cards, right before applying for a mortgage can put your approval at risk. While these purchases may not show up on your credit report immediately, they will change your DTI ratio.
• Cash reserves: Some lenders require at least 2 to 6 months of mortgage payments in your savings. This is especially the case if there are other issues with your application, such as an unstable employment history or a past loan default.

How mortgage rates impact affordability

Interest rates have a major impact on your ability to afford a home. For example, if you have a $400,000 loan, a 5% interest rate will cost you approximately $2,147 in principal and interest per month. But a 7% interest rate will increase your monthly payments to around $2,661, a difference of over $500 per month.

Plus, interest rates fluctuate based on Federal Reserve policy and broader economic conditions. Currently, the average U.S. mortgage rate is 6.19%, but it was 6.69% one year ago and 2.71% five years ago. When choosing a mortgage lender, you’ll need to weigh not only their current rates, but for how long you can lock in those rates for.

If you have a variable rate mortgage, you’ll be exposed to fluctuation in rates. That can mean you’ll enjoy a deal when rates are low, but you may be in for a shock if they suddenly go up.

A fixed-rate mortgage will lock in your interest rate for a set amount of time, often 15 or 30 years. While a fixed-rate mortgage provides more stability, you could potentially be stuck with a higher interest rate unless you choose to refinance.

How much house can I afford on my salary?

Home affordability usually improves the higher your salary is. However, other considerations, such as your DTI ratio and credit history, will also impact affordability.

The chart below gives you a general idea of how much house you can afford at different salary levels using the 28/36 rule. The chart assumes a 6% interest rate, minimal debt, and a 20% downpayment and only covers principal and interest (not taxes or insurance).

The amount of home you’ll be able to afford will vary based on factors beyond your income. Your location, financial situation, and the current economic climate will all have a big impact on your ability to afford a home.

• How Much House Can I Afford With a $70K Salary?
• How Much House Can I Afford With a $90K Salary?
• How Much House Can I Afford With a $140K Salary?
• How Much House Can I Afford With a $250K Salary?

If you’re considering buying a house, it’s important to consult with trusted real estate professionals, such as a realtor and financial advisor. That way you’ll have the advice you need to make the decisions that fit your budget and homeownership goals.

FAQ about home affordability

The post Home Affordability Calculator: How Much House Can I Afford? appeared first on Clever Real Estate.

The company is tech-forward, providing virtual and in-person support. Agent reviews are mostly positive, and the brokerage provides training, technology, and marketing tools to help agents deliver high-quality service.

However, you’ll likely pay the standard commission rate of 2.5–3%. On a $500,000 home sale, you'd owe your agent $15,000 at a 3% rate. Other companies can connect you with realtors who offer the same services for half that cost.

If you want to save money when you sell, Clever Real Estate can help. Clever's top local agents come from established brokerages and provide the same full-service support you’d expect from traditional realtors. The difference is that with a listing fee of just 1.5%, sellers save an average of $7,000. Find top-rated agents who can sell your home for half the traditional commission rate.

Fathom Realty overview

Services

Fathom Realty agents are traditional realtors who provide full-service support. Some of the home-selling or buying process can happen online, but agents provide in-person support as well.

If you’re selling a home, you can expect a comprehensive range of services, usually including:

• A comparative market analysis (CMA) to help price your home
• Property listing on the multiple listing service (MLS) and major real estate websites
• Professional photography
• Home staging assistance
• Home showings and open houses
• Negotiating with potential buyers
• Assistance with closing paperwork

If you’re buying a home, a Fathom Realty agent will typically provide the following services:

• Identifying properties that fit your needs and budget
• Scheduling and attending property showings
• Notifying you when new properties matching your criteria become available
• Assisting you with making a competitive offer
• Negotiating purchase agreements and contingencies
• Assisting with home inspections
• Coordinating with lenders, attorneys, and other real estate professionals
• Assisting with closing, including with title and paperwork

Commission rate

At a traditional brokerage like Fathom Realty, agents typically charge the standard commission rate of 2.5–3% of the final sale price. Nationally, the average listing fee is 2.82%, and the average buyer’s agent fee is 2.75%.

Sellers previously set the commission rate for buyer’s agents, advertised it in their MLS listings, and covered the fee at closing. But following a settlement with the National Association of Realtors (NAR), buyers now negotiate the commission directly with their agent and include it in their contract. Sellers are still covering the buyer’s agent commission, only now it's offered via a concession instead of upfront.

When working with a traditional agent, you’re technically always free to negotiate the realtor commission. However, in practice, getting a significant discount is challenging. Agents from traditional brokerages often have little leeway or incentive to lower their rates.

If you want to pay less while still getting full service, consider an alternative like Clever Real Estate. With Clever, you’ll still work with a top-rated local agent, but with a pre-negotiated listing fee of 1.5% instead of 3%. You’ll get the same comprehensive support, and keep thousands more in your pocket.

Fathom Realty agents

Generally, Fathom Realty maintains a high standard of agent quality.

It has a large agent network, so you’ll likely find someone with local expertise. Local knowledge is important because it allows agents to accurately price homes, identify desirable neighborhoods, anticipate market trends, and negotiate effectively on your behalf.

Fathom Realty also invests in the professional development and success of its agents. The company offers national and local training, mentorship programs, and tech and marketing tools.[19][20] This benefits you by ensuring agents are well-prepared, knowledgeable, and equipped to handle the buying or selling process efficiently.

The company has thousands of customer reviews, and agents are mostly rated highly, with many reviews mentioning agents by name. Clients frequently praise their professionalism, local insight, and support.

Fathom Realty doesn't have brick-and-mortar offices. To find a real estate agent, you can search by agent or state on Fathom Realty's website. You can also filter by specialty and language.

Before you sign with one of its realtors, interview a couple of others to ensure you find the right fit. Look beyond the firm’s reputation and consider agents’ local expertise and relevant experience. Also, check customer reviews to get a better idea of what it’s like to work with each realtor. 

Fathom Realty reviews from customers

Fathom Realty reviews are generally positive. While its Yelp ratings are mixed, the most recent ones are just two from 2024. Many Fathom offices on Google have strong customer ratings.

Because ratings vary by location, it’s important to look at reviews for the specific office and agent you’re considering — and interview multiple agents to find the right fit.

Most recent reviews praise Fathom agents for their professionalism, communication, and knowledge. Only a few complaints have appeared in the past year, and those relate to issues with individual agents.

Here are examples illustrating common positive and negative themes:

Positive Fathom Realty reviews

✅ Exceptional agent support

Many reviewers praised their Fathom Realty agents for being knowledgeable and proactive. Clients consistently said they felt supported and informed through every step of the process.

✅ Smooth, stress-free transactions

Customers frequently mentioned that their agents made the home-buying or selling process easier and less stressful.

✅ Strong communication and responsiveness

Many reviewers emphasized how responsive their Fathom Realty agents were — returning calls promptly, keeping clients updated, and communicating clearly with all parties involved.

Fathom Realty complaints

⚠️ Some problems with individual agents

A relatively small number of customers reported negative experiences, primarily involving unprofessional agents.

Credibility: Is Fathom Realty legit?

Fathom Realty is a legitimate brokerage headquartered in Cary, North Carolina. Founded in 2010 by Josh Harley, it's now led by Marco Fregenal, who took over as CEO in 2023.[29] The company became publicly traded in 2020.[22]

The brokerage has a strong brand presence and regularly appears in industry news. According to RealTrends, Fathom Realty ranks as the 6th-largest public independent brokerage in the U.S., with $13.1 billion in sales and 36,800 transaction sides in 2024.

The company continues to grow, reporting 38% year-over-year revenue growth in the third quarter of 2025 and a 24% increase in the number of agents in its network. Fathom Holdings' subsidiaries, Verus Title and START Real Estate, are also expanding into additional states.[30][31]

Bottom line: Is Fathom Realty right for you?

Fathom Realty could be right for you if you’re looking for a traditional, full-service agent. Most customer reviews suggest you’ll receive quality services and work with a supportive, knowledgeable realtor.

While the brokerage has a good reputation, it has thousands of agents, and their quality can vary. It's wise to compare several realtors before signing a contract to ensure you find the one that best meets your needs.

If you want to get full service and save on realtor fees, consider interviewing agents from a low-commission brokerage, too.

Companies like Clever Real Estate work with top agents from name-brand brokerages like Keller Williams and RE/MAX. These agents deliver traditional services for less — a 1.5% listing fee instead of the standard 3%. Sellers save an average of $7,000 without compromising on quality or expertise.

FAQ

Related reading

How to Find the Best Real Estate Agent for You

This guide on how to find the best real estate agent is packed with useful tips and information, based on hundreds of hours of research and expert interviews.

Best Low Commission Realtors of 2026 (Ranked & Reviewed)

Find the best low commission real estate agents and brokers, so you can sell with a full-service realtor and save thousands on commission fees!

Average Real Estate Agent Commission Rates (2025 Survey)

Looking for average real estate commission rates by state? We surveyed U.S. realtors and crunched the numbers to find accurate data for all 50 states.

The post Fathom Realty Reviews appeared first on Clever Real Estate.

The Average American’s Debt Profile | Credit Card Responsibility and Unaffordable Purchases | How Credit Card Debtors Handle Balances | Missed Credit Card Payments and the Reasons Why | Frequent Credit Card Offers and Applications | Many Don’t Understand Credit Basics | Buy Now, Pay Later 

Just a few generations ago, the day-to-day financial horizons of most ordinary people were limited to the money in their pockets or the value of their reputation at their local stores.

But 75 years ago, that all changed when Diners Club introduced the first modern credit card, inspired by a businessman’s discovery that he’d lost his wallet while trying to pay for a dinner with clients. In the decades since, these humble pieces of plastic have transformed the world’s financial landscape.

On the one hand, millions of shoppers no longer need to scrupulously monitor how much cash they have on hand or risk carrying large amounts for significant purchases while also earning valuable rewards, such as cash back or travel points. Credit cards also eliminated the delays and uncertainty associated with personal checks, making them an equally attractive option for stores.

However, credit cards also unlocked countless new ways for Americans to get themselves into financial trouble, including overspending, mismanaging their payments, and accruing significant and growing debt. 

It has left many with a decidedly mixed view of the cards — one that, for better or worse, may make some wary of even using these powerful financial tools.

To find out more, Clever Real Estate conducted a survey of 1,000 Americans, gathering details on their credit card usage and debt, as well as their attitudes toward cards and their impact on their financial lives. 

The survey found a majority of Americans (53%) have credit card debt, carrying an average balance of $7,719, while more than 1 in 4 (29%) say they wouldn't be able to afford essential living expenses without a credit card.

Meanwhile, 53% would like to reduce their credit card usage, including 71% of those who are currently in debt. At the same time, 1 in 4 (25%) of those who don’t currently have credit card debt are worried they might fall into it in the next five years.

Read on to learn how credit card debt is impacting the lives of those dealing with it, as well as how those who’ve avoided it have managed to stay debt-free.

The Average American’s Credit Card Debt Profile: Averaging $7,700 in Debt, With a Quarter Sinking Deeper Into Debt Monthly

Credit card debt certainly isn't rare in 21st-century America. A majority of Americans (53%) carry some, with an average balance of $7,719.  

However, a third of those carrying debt (32%) owe $10,000 or more, while almost 1 in 10 (9%) have credit card debt over $20,000.

Those who own homes have an average balance 37% higher than those who don’t – $8,486 versus $6,214. However, regardless of the level, credit card debt of any kind is more common among renters (60%) than homeowners (51%). 

Meanwhile, all generations are relatively similar when it comes to the percentage in credit card debt, ranging from 55% of millennials to 47% of boomers.

With all this in mind, it should be no surprise that 58% of those with credit card debt feel stressed about it. 

That’s understandable when paying their credit card bill takes up a huge portion of the typical budget. The average American puts 30% of their monthly take-home pay toward paying off their credit card, although roughly 1 in 5 (21%) spend over half of their take-home pay on this. 

Making even the minimum payment on their bill each month is difficult for 1 in 3 of those in credit card debt (33%), and an alarming quarter of Americans with credit card debt (27%) say they go deeper into debt every month.

A Quarter of Americans Not in Credit Card Debt Worry They Might Fall Into it Within 5 Years

Just because someone has managed to get through the economically tumultuous past few years without credit card debt doesn’t necessarily mean they feel like they’re on firm financial footing.

Even among those who’ve avoided falling into credit card debt so far, 1 in 4 (25%) are worried it might happen to them in the next five years.  Still, that’s a slight decline from the 31% of debt-free Americans who worried about this in 2023, closer to the peak of post-COVID inflation and home price increases. 

Early-career Gen Z is most concerned about potentially falling into credit card debt over the next five years. Over a third (35%) say so, nine percentage points more than millennials (26%) and 15 percentage points more than boomers (20%). 

The same goes for renters versus homeowners: 33% of the former are worried about falling into credit card debt, while just 23% of the latter say the same.

4 in 10 Americans Have Carried Credit Card Debt for at Least 5 Years, But Half Think They’ll Pay it Off in a Year or Less

For reasons both objective and personal, Americans are generally pretty down on the idea of credit card debt. 

About 59% of Americans see credit card debt as the worst kind of debt, with 40% saying it’s never acceptable to have. This could explain the similar number (37%) who say they’ve never been in credit card debt. 

However, credit card debt isn’t new to many who carry it. About 40% say they’ve been in debt since at least 2020, and over 1 in 5 (21%) say their debt stretches back at least a decade, to 2015 or earlier. 

Despite the long-term nature of this debt for many, a large portion seems fairly optimistic about it. Almost half of Americans with credit card debt think they’ll be able to pay it off within a year (48%). On the other hand, more than 1 in 8 indebted Americans (15%) see a particularly long road to paying off their debt, saying it’ll take them five years or more. 

Most foresee paying off their debt gradually through budgeting and savings (64%) or spending less (57%), rather than through any major life changes, such as getting a higher-paying (18%) or second job (15%) or moving to a more affordable area (7%). 

Three-Quarters of Americans Say They’re More Responsible Than Average, But Over Half Regularly Make Purchases They Can’t Pay Off

In a world of seemingly ever-increasing expenses, it makes sense that over half of Americans (53%), including 71% of those in credit card debt, would like to reduce their credit card usage. However, it’s not because they necessarily see any problem with how they’ve handled their credit in the past. 

An eyebrow-raising three-quarters of Americans (75%) believe they’re more responsible than average with their credit cards, including nearly two-thirds of those with credit card debt (64%).

Other responses may tell a different story. For example, a majority of Americans (54%) say they buy something on their credit card that they can’t immediately pay off at least once a year. Nearly a quarter (23%) do this at least every month.

Meanwhile, about 1 in 8 Americans (11%) say they put every major expense on their credit cards. This is twice as common among those with no credit card debt (15%) as those with it (7%) and among homeowners (13%) as non-owners (6%). This suggests the behavior is just as likely to be a move to maximize rewards among financially stable individuals as a sign of budgetary distress. 

Those certainly aren’t the only signs that Americans may not be as responsible and prudent with their credit card spending as they might first believe. 

A third of all Americans (35%) and 44% of those in credit card debt say they’ve regretted a large purchase they’ve made with a credit card. 

A majority of Americans (52%) also admit to making impulsive purchases on their cards at least every few months, with 29% doing so at least monthly. This is far more common among those with credit card debt (84%) than those without (63%). 

There’s also a strong emotional element to credit card use that may not be present in other payment methods. A third of Americans (33%) tend to spend more on their credit cards when they’re happy, while around a quarter (24%) say they do more credit card spending when they're sad.

In general, regardless of how they’re feeling, half of Americans (50%) tend to spend more when using credit cards versus cash or debit, including 57% of those in credit card debt. 

1 in 4 Americans Couldn’t Afford Essential Expenses Without Credit Cards

Credit cards may have started as a convenience, but for many in modern America, they’ve become a true necessity. Even if Americans are somewhat wary of credit cards, a troubling 39% say they couldn’t afford a $2,000 emergency without using one. 

Even worse, over a quarter of respondents (29%) say they couldn't afford essential living expenses without a credit card. This includes 37% of those currently carrying balances and 35% of Americans who don’t own homes.

Americans with credit card debt are more likely to use their cards for unavoidable expenses, such as:

• Emergency pet costs, with 28% of those in credit card debt doing so, compared to 17% of those without
• Rent or mortgage payments, with 13% of those in credit card debt doing so, compared to 7% of those without
• Child care, with 9% of those in credit card debt doing so, compared to 3% of those without 

Rising housing costs, such as rent or mortgage-related expenses, have motivated over a third (36%) of Americans to rely more on credit cards. At the same time, almost 1 in 5 non-homeowners (18%) have put their rent payments on a credit card, while just 7% of homeowners say the same about their mortgages.

It’s the only example among those surveyed where non-owners were more likely than homeowners to charge a major expense.  

More Than a Third of Those in Credit Card Debt Have Paid One Card’s Bill With Another

Debt can feel like a burden in many cases, but high-interest, easy-to-incur credit card debt may be particularly anxiety-inducing. Nearly half of those in credit card debt (48%) say making their payments on time stresses them out. 

Over a third (36%) of those in credit card debt have even resorted to paying one card’s bill by putting the payment on another. 

For a majority of those in credit card debt, the cause is as straightforward as it gets: 54% say they spend more than they earn. A nearly identical 53% of credit card debtors say they’ve maxed out a card at some point, 31 percentage points higher than those without credit card debt (23%). 

Plenty of budget categories can contribute to credit card debt, but the top three are likely familiar culprits: 

• Spending on essential purchases, such as groceries, gas, and prescriptions (72%)
• Paying bills, such as utility bills, phone bills, etc. (64%)
• Paying off other debt (53%)

However, half of those in credit card debt admit it happened because of their own excessive spending and bad financial choices (50%) on less-than-vital expenses, such as:

• Going on vacation (49%)
• Making a major tech purchase (e.g., TV, computer, phone, etc.) (48%)
• Making nonessential purchases (e.g., concert tickets, sporting events, video games, etc.) (44%)

These numbers might not even reflect the full picture of questionable spending. Almost a fifth of Americans (18%) concede they don’t track their credit card spending. This includes 21% of those in credit card debt but just 14% of those without it. 

Major life events, both deliberate and unplanned, are also top sources of credit card debt among Americans: 

• Illness or medical emergency for themselves or someone within their household (44%)
• Job loss (33%)
• Having a child or paying for child care (26%)

In addition, over 1 in 5 of those in credit card debt (22%) say they’ve hidden a purchase from their significant other. That’s twice the number of those who aren’t in credit card debt (11%), suggesting that many of those who end up in debt are aware their purchases may not fit within their budget when they make them. 

Nearly Half of Americans With Credit Card Debt Say It’s Preventing Them From Living the Life They Want

Whether it’s due to undisciplined spending or financial hardship, the result of credit card debt is clear. Almost half of those in it (44%) say their debt has prevented them from living the life they want.  

Those with credit card debt are far more likely than those without it to say their credit card usage has prevented them from doing a wide range of things, including:

• Building an emergency fund/emergency savings (48% for those in debt versus 18% without)
• Taking a vacation (41% for those in debt versus 19% without)
• Saving for retirement (41% of those in debt versus 16% without)
• Making nonessential purchases (36% of those in debt versus 17% without)

Nearly a quarter of those with credit card debt say they’ve delayed buying a home because of credit card debt (23%) or had their debt affect their ability to qualify for a mortgage (22%). 

Other than mortgages, those with credit card debt are also more likely to be in other forms of debt across the board. They’re over 3x more likely to be in personal loan debt (25% versus 7%) and medical debt (24% versus 7%) than those without credit card balances. 

Additionally, credit card debtors (35%) are nearly 3x more likely than those without credit card debt (13%) to say their credit card usage has kept them from paying off other debt. 

Too Much Interest, Too Many Impulse Purchases Are Among Top Regrets for Debtors

A hefty amount of credit card debt often brings plenty of regrets alongside the high interest payments and extra fees. About 88% of those in credit card debt have regrets about their credit card spending.

The top regrets among Americans in credit card debt include: 

• Paying too much interest (34%)
• Carrying a balance instead of paying in full each month (32%)
• Making impulse purchases (30%)
• Overspending on nonessentials (27%)

For each of these regrets, those in credit card debt are roughly 2x to 3x more likely to experience them than those who don’t have credit card debt. Overall, credit card debtors are more likely to regret every credit card behavior surveyed across the board.   

It’s worth noting, however, that 45% of those without credit card debt say they have no regrets at all about their credit card spending. 

The Secrets to Avoiding Credit Card Debt: Early Financial Education, Frugal Budgeting, or a High Income

The habits and patterns of Americans who have avoided ending up in credit card debt paint a picture of a broadly conscientious financial lifestyle. 

Nearly half of Americans who have never had credit card debt say it’s because they were taught good financial habits early on by parents or schools (45%) or never spend more than what they have in their bank account (45%). 

Meanwhile, 42% say it’s because they either spend frugally or budget carefully and track all or most of their spending.

Outside of generally financially responsible behaviors, credit card-specific ones are popular, too. More than a third of those who’ve never had credit card debt consistently monitor their card balances throughout the month (36%), and about a quarter pay off credit card purchases soon after they make them, rather than waiting for the bill (23%).

However, 26% say they’ve avoided credit card debt simply because they have an income substantially higher than their expenses.

Although these lucky or responsible individuals have avoided ending up in debt, they’re not always financially prudent. Roughly 40% of those currently without credit card debt say they still carry a balance from time to time. 

Roughly 1 in 3 Americans Have Missed a Credit Card Payment Since 2020

Missing a credit card payment can be a frustrating and costly experience but one that’s apparently relatively common. Nearly half of Americans (45%) say they’ve missed at least one at some point in their lives.  

In fact, approximately 1 in 3 Americans (32%) say they’ve missed a credit card payment since 2020, a sign of the uneven and tumultuous recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Among those who’ve ever missed payments, 80% say they’ve missed more than two in the past five years. An especially troubling 28% have missed more than five credit card payments since 2020, and 1 in 8 (13%) have missed more than 10, a sign of profound financial distress. 

Those with credit card debt (73%) made up a substantially larger portion of those who have missed payments over the past five years compared to those who have not (27%). 

It’s possible that missed payment data may reveal some warning signs for the economy. Over a quarter of those who have ever missed payments (27%) say they most recently missed one sometime in 2025. 

Meanwhile, those with multiple credit cards (49%) are much more likely to have missed a payment compared to Americans with just one (37%).

A little discipline and planning could seemingly go a long way toward eliminating financially harmful missed payments. Simply forgetting to make the payment (39%) is the most common reason for missed payments among those who’ve missed one since 2020. 

With this in mind, it’s worth noting that almost 1 in 5 of those who’ve never had credit card debt (18%) say setting up an automatic payment for their cards has helped keep them debt-free.

For others, missed payments resulted from having to divert funds to pay for an unexpected emergency (30%), food or other groceries (28%), or utility bills (27%). About 23% have missed payments because they needed to pay their rent or mortgage.

Almost 1 in 5 payment missers (18%) ended up in that situation because they lost their jobs, and with them, the income to make payments. 

These sometimes unavoidable situations are substantially more common than those who missed payments because they spent too much on nonessentials (16%) or made a large one-time purchase, such as a wedding or vacation (11%). 

60% of Americans Get Credit Card Offers Monthly, and 1 in 5 Apply for One Every Few Months

Credit cards can seem difficult to avoid in modern society, whether a person actually has any interest in signing up for one. 

About 60% of Americans say they receive credit card offers or preapprovals in the mail at least once a month, and over 1 in 4 (28%) get them weekly, providing plenty of opportunities to expand their credit – for better or worse. 

The odds of getting a new card seem to be pretty good for those who want one. Only 31% of Americans say they’ve ever been denied on a credit card application. As a result, a third of Americans (33%) say they apply for a new card at least once a year, and a stunning 1 in 5 (21%) put in an application every few months.

The motivations of those who apply for a card monthly or every few months differ in some notable ways from Americans overall. Those who apply monthly (20%) are more than twice as likely to say they’ve applied because they maxed out other cards compared to all Americans (9%). Monthly applicants are also more than 3x as likely to apply for a card as a status symbol (18%) versus Americans overall (5%). 

Juggling multiple credit cards is a way of life for 70% of Americans, including 15% who regularly alternate between four or more. Millennials are most likely to be among these heavy multicard users, with nearly 1 in 5 (19%) using four or more, compared to 7% of Gen Z and 14% of boomers.   

Those with multiple cards are substantially more likely to have credit card debt (58%) than those with only one (44%). 

Americans are fairly divided when it comes to the most important factors in considering a new credit card. Around a quarter select a card with:

• A low or no annual fee (29%) 
• A low interest rate (27%)
• High rewards (25%) 

Fewer than 1 in 10 (9%) say the often lucrative sign-up bonuses are most important. 

Those with credit card debt (38%) are more than twice as likely to say low interest rates are most important compared to those without (15%). 

Conversely, Americans without credit card debt are more likely to prioritize cards with low or no annual fees (33% without debt versus 25% of those with debt) and high rewards (33% without debt versus 18% of those with debt). 

More than 1 in 4 Americans (27%) admit to opening a credit card without doing prior research, such as at a store to save on a purchase.

About a third of those in credit card debt (31%) admit to signing up for a card specifically to cover purchases they couldn't afford – roughly 3x the number of those without credit card debt who’ve done this (11%). 

Credit card debtors (12%) are also twice as likely as those without debt (6%) to say they’ve applied for a card because they’ve maxed out others.

A Third of Americans Have Applied for Cards Solely for Sign-Up Bonuses and Rewards

Cash is king in the world of credit card rewards. Americans overwhelmingly prefer cash back as their top credit card reward, with 56% saying it’s most important. That’s 4x the next most popular choice, travel rewards (14%).

A travel rewards card (26%) is also the type Americans would be least likely to apply for.

Chasing rewards can be a risky strategy in some cases. Roughly 1 in 4 Americans (24%) have put a large group purchase, such as travel expenses or dining out, on a credit card to earn rewards, only to end up in debt because others never paid their shares.

Overall, 70% of Americans would support a law that lowered credit card interest rates from current levels and capped them, even if it also led to issuers reducing or eliminating rewards.

There’s a dramatic difference in approval for this potential law between those in credit card debt (78%) and those who aren’t (60%). That’s likely explained, at least in part, by the fact that 75% of Americans believe credit card rewards encourage people to spend more than they should.

Meanwhile, more than a third of Americans (37%) say sign-up bonuses and rewards are among the reasons they’ve applied for a credit card, while another 8% say they’ve specifically applied for a card for access to exclusive places or events, such as airport lounges or celebrity meet-and-greets. Together, these showcase the value these benefits have in drawing in new customers.

Rewards aren’t just an attraction for applying, either. Many people seem to rely on them on a regular basis, with over a third of Americans (36%) saying they cash in rewards every month.

If a law reducing rewards were really passed, there’s no doubt the changes would dramatically alter the nation’s financial landscape. Although Americans would react in a variety of ways, nearly three-quarters (74%) would change their behavior with credit cards in response. 

Nearly 1 in 3 Americans (30%) say they would use credit cards less, with 20% saying they’d use them only for emergencies. In addition, nearly 1 in 7 (14%) would cancel some cards, and a similar number would switch to a lower-interest card (16%) or one with a lower annual fee (16%). 

Many Americans Don’t Know the Impact of Credit Cards, Their Interest Rate

Many of the poor decisions and mistakes Americans make involving credit cards may be the result of ignorance of how they work or of their personal credit situation. Around 1 in 8 Americans admit they don’t understand how their credit card use affects their credit score (11%) or even know their credit limit (12%).

A third (34%) don’t know their credit card’s interest rate, including 27% of those who are currently in credit card debt, who are paying that very rate on their balances every month.

Although only 15% of Americans say they don’t know their credit scores, this figure rises to nearly 1 in 4 renters (23%). This could spell unexpected trouble for them if they look to buy a home in the future without first establishing sufficient credit.

It’s not just ignorance either — a simple lack of diligence is also a common problem. Only half of Americans (50%) say they check their credit card statements monthly for accuracy. 

This may be an obvious reason why a similar 48% — including 57% of those in credit card debt — at least occasionally discover an ongoing payment they forgot about, such as a streaming subscription or gym membership. About 1 in 4 (24%) discover one of these forgotten subscriptions every month or more.

Failing to regularly check statements is likely also a contributor to “bill shock,” where a credit card statement comes in substantially higher than expected, something 38% of Americans experience at some point in their lives. 

1 in 4 Americans Have Used Buy Now, Pay Later Services For Essentials, Half Think They’re Riskier Than Credit Cards

The concept of buying on credit is certainly nothing new, but fresh ways to pay over time are still emerging and growing in popularity. In recent years, this has been the services commonly known as buy now, pay later (BNPL). 

Companies such as Affirm, Afterpay, and Klarna work with retailers to enable customers to split just about any kind of purchase into a handful of monthly payments, often at relatively low interest rates. 

Roughly a third of Americans (35%) have used a buy now, pay later service, with those in credit card debt (44%) substantially more likely to have done so than those without (25%). 

About 1 in 8 Americans (13%) currently has BNPL debt, which rises to 1 in 5 of those with credit card debt (20%). A quarter of those in credit card debt (24%) also admit to falling behind on buy now, pay later payments, compared to 10% of Americans without credit card debt. 

More than half of respondents (54%) believe buy now, pay later services are riskier than traditional credit cards.

Some of this may be the hesitation that comes with any new technology, but experts have criticized BNPL programs for their frictionless nature and ability to rack up large amounts of debt easily, while others have noted they may not have the same scrutiny as credit cards, as they only perform a “soft” credit check. 

Among those who use BNPL programs, most simply use them to split up larger purchases, such as electronics or furniture (54%). However, 36% admit using them for nonessentials, such as clothes or entertainment, and roughly a third (32%) say they use them to avoid another charge on their credit card.

Perhaps most concerningly, more than 1 in 4 of those who use buy now, pay later services (26%) have used them for essentials, such as their groceries or a utility bill.  

At the end of the day, it may not matter much how the purchase is initially made. About 41% of Americans say they at least occasionally make buy now, pay later payments with their credit card, meaning there’s not much difference in the end for those looking to avoid the risk of credit card debt.  

Methodology

Clever Real Estate conducted an online survey of 1,000 U.S. adults Sept. 18, 2025. The survey examined their experiences with credit card usage, debt, and their perspectives on the impact these factors have on their lives and finances.

About Clever

Since 2017, Clever Real Estate has been on a mission to make selling or buying a home easier and more affordable for everyone. Twelve million annual readers rely on Clever's library of educational content and data-driven research to make smarter real estate decisions — and to date, Clever has helped consumers save more than $210 million on Realtor fees. Clever's research has been featured in The New York Times, Business Insider, Inman, Housing Wire, and many more.

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FAQs

The post 2025 Data: Half of Americans Have Credit Card Debt, and a Quarter Sink Deeper Every Month appeared first on Clever Real Estate.

Fulton Grace Realty is a respected traditional brokerage that can help you sell, buy, rent, or manage a property. It has one of the largest agent networks in Chicago, Illinois, as well as franchises in Arizona, Florida, and Wisconsin.

Agent reviews are mostly positive, and the brokerage provides training, mentorship, marketing resources, and tech tools to help agents deliver high-quality service.

However, you’ll likely pay the standard commission rate of 2.5–3%. On a $500,000 home sale, you'd owe your agent $15,000 at a 3% rate. Other companies can connect you with realtors who offer the same services for half that cost.

If you want to save money when you sell, Clever Real Estate can help. Clever's top local agents come from established brokerages and provide the same full-service support you’d expect from traditional realtors. The difference is that with a listing fee of just 1.5%, sellers save an average of $7,000. Find top-rated agents who can sell your home for half the traditional commission rate.

Fulton Grace Realty overview

Services

Fulton Grace Realty agents are traditional realtors who provide full-service support.

If you’re selling a home, you can expect a comprehensive range of services, usually including:

• A comparative market analysis (CMA) to help price your home
• Property listing on the multiple listing service (MLS) and major real estate websites
• Professional photography
• Home staging assistance
• Home showings and open houses
• Negotiating with potential buyers
• Assistance with closing paperwork

If you’re buying a home, a Fulton Grace Realty agent will typically provide the following services:

• Identifying properties that fit your needs and budget
• Scheduling and attending property showings
• Notifying you when new properties matching your criteria become available
• Assisting you with making a competitive offer
• Negotiating purchase agreements and contingencies
• Assisting with home inspections
• Coordinating with lenders, attorneys, and other real estate professionals
• Assisting with closing, including with title and paperwork

In addition to its traditional agent services for selling and buying, Fulton Grace Realty also offers:

• Assistance with finding a place to rent
• Non-exclusive property leasing services, including listing your rental property, conducting showings, and assisting with lease paperwork
• Fulton Grace property management services, including an online rent payment system, move-in and move-out inspections, and expert maintenance
• Access to RenovationSells.com, which allows you to renovate now and pay later

Commission rate

At a traditional brokerage like Fulton Grace Realty, agents typically charge the standard commission rate of 2.5–3% of the final sale price. Nationally, the average listing fee is 2.82%, and the average buyer’s agent fee is 2.75%.

Sellers previously set the commission rate for buyer’s agents, advertised it in their MLS listings, and covered the fee at closing. But following a settlement with the National Association of Realtors (NAR), buyers now negotiate the commission directly with their agent and include it in their contract. Sellers are still covering the buyer’s agent commission, only now it's offered via a concession instead of upfront.

When working with a traditional agent, you’re technically always free to negotiate the realtor commission. However, in practice, getting a significant discount is challenging. Agents from traditional brokerages often have little leeway or incentive to lower their rates.

If you want to pay less while still getting full service, consider an alternative like Clever Real Estate. With Clever, you’ll still work with a top-rated local agent, but with a pre-negotiated listing fee of 1.5% instead of 3%. You’ll get the same comprehensive support, and keep thousands more in your pocket.

Fulton Grace Realty agents

Generally, Fulton Grace Realty maintains a high standard of agent quality.

It has a high concentration of agents in Chicago, Illinois, so you’ll likely find someone in that area with local expertise. Local knowledge is important because it allows agents to accurately price homes, identify desirable neighborhoods, anticipate market trends, and negotiate effectively on your behalf.

Fulton Grace Realty also invests in the professional development and success of its agents. The company offers training and mentorship programs, a marketing team, tech tools, and support staff.[34] This benefits you by ensuring agents are well-prepared and equipped to handle the buying or selling process efficiently.

The company has over 1,000 customer reviews, and agents are mostly rated highly, with many reviews mentioning agents by name. Clients frequently praise their professionalism, local insight, and support.

To find a real estate agent, you can search by agent or office on Fulton Grace Realty's website.

Before you sign with one of its realtors, interview a couple of others to ensure you find the right fit. Look beyond the firm’s reputation and consider agents’ local expertise and relevant experience. Also, check customer reviews to get a better idea of what it’s like to work with each realtor. 

Fulton Grace Realty reviews from customers

Fulton Grace Realty reviews are generally positive, with an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 across more than 1,000 Google reviews. Individual agent profiles are typically highly rated on Yelp as well.

Ratings vary by office and agent. If you’re considering working with a Fulton Grace Realty agent, it’s best to review ratings for the specific location and realtor, and to interview multiple agents to find the right fit.

Most reviews highlight the professionalism, support, and knowledge of individual agents. Some reviews complain about the property management service and poor experiences with realtors.

Here are examples illustrating positive and negative themes:

✅ Agents matched clients with their dream home

Several reviewers highlighted how well their agent listened to what they wanted and answered all their questions. As a result, reviewers reported finding exactly what they were looking for.

✅ Agents were professional, communicative, and knowledgeable

Many Fulton Grace Realty reviews in the last year focused on the high-quality service. Reviewers felt their agents made the process less stressful, and they were pleased with their communication and local market expertise.

⚠️ Some people had issues with specific realtors

Some reviewers shared negative experiences with individual agents who were unprofessional.

Credibility: Is Fulton Grace Realty legit?

Fulton Grace Realty is a legitimate brokerage headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. It was founded in 2008 by TJ Rubin, the company's current President.

The company is actively expanding, opening new offices in Illinois and other states and acquiring realtor groups. The company has built a strong brand presence in Chicago, regularly appears in industry news, and receives awards for top workplaces, agent achievements, and sales.

Bottom line: Is Fulton Grace Realty right for you?

Fulton Grace Realty could be right for you if you’re looking for a traditional, full-service agent, especially in Chicago. The company generally provides high-quality services and experienced agents.

While the brokerage has a good reputation, it has thousands of agents, and their quality can vary. It's wise to compare several realtors before signing a contract to ensure you find the one that best meets your needs.

If you want to get full service and save on realtor fees, consider interviewing agents from a low-commission brokerage, too.

Companies like Clever Real Estate work with top agents from name-brand brokerages like Keller Williams and RE/MAX. These agents deliver traditional services for less — a 1.5% listing fee instead of the standard 3%. Sellers save an average of $7,000 without compromising on quality or expertise.

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