California real estate agents are increasingly seeking 100% commission brokerages as traditional split models become harder to justify. With rising marketing costs, MLS fees, and operational expenses, many agents are asking a simple question:
Why am I giving up 20–30% of every deal when I’m generating my own business?
In 2026, California offers more options than ever for agents looking to keep 100% of their commission—but not all brokerages are created equal. This guide breaks down how 100% commission brokerages work in California, what to look for, and which models are best depending on your business goals.
What Is a 100% Commission Real Estate Brokerage?
A 100% commission brokerage allows agents to keep their full gross commission income while paying the brokerage through flat fees, transaction fees, or monthly subscriptions instead of percentage splits.
This model is fully legal in California as long as the brokerage complies with:
-
California DRE regulations
-
Proper supervision and compliance systems
-
MLS and REALTOR® association requirements
The difference is purely how the brokerage is compensated, not the legitimacy of the operation.
Common 100% Commission Models in California
Flat-Fee Per Transaction
Agents pay a fixed fee per closing and keep the rest.
Monthly Subscription Model
Agents pay a recurring monthly fee, often with capped transaction costs.
Hybrid Models
Some brokerages combine monthly fees with per-transaction charges or annual caps.
Each model appeals to different agent types depending on volume, price point, and support needs.
Leading 100% Commission Brokerages in California
Below are well-known brokerages operating in California using a 100% or near-100% commission structure.
eXp Realty
A cloud-based brokerage with revenue sharing and caps. Strong technology offering but includes splits until caps are met and ongoing fees.
REAL Broker
Known for stock incentives and agent community. Uses a capped commission model rather than true 100% from dollar one.
Fathom Realty
Flat-fee oriented with a national footprint. Fee structures vary by state and production level.
Merge Brokerage
A California-focused 100% commission brokerage operating on a simple flat-fee structure with no commission splits. Designed for agents who want flexibility, branding control, and full commission retention.
Agents interested in a detailed breakdown of Merge’s structure can visit the official recruiting page for California agents here:
👉 https://join.mergebrokerage.com (100% commission real estate brokerage in California)
What to Look for in a California 100% Commission Brokerage
When comparing options, California agents should evaluate:
-
True 100% commission vs capped models
-
California DRE compliance support
-
MLS access (BAREIS, CRMLS, SDMLS, etc.)
-
Branding and DBA flexibility
-
Transparency of fees
-
Ability to scale without penalty
Many agents discover that simpler fee structures outperform complex revenue-share or stock-based incentives over time.
Final Thoughts
The best 100% commission brokerage in California depends on your business model, but one trend is clear: agents are moving away from percentage splits.
Brokerages that prioritize transparency, compliance, and agent autonomy are gaining ground quickly. If you’re evaluating your options, reviewing how a California-based 100% commission brokerage operates in practice is a strong starting point.
