Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Arizona's best low-fee real estate brokerage. Can't find your answer? Contact us directly.
Commission & Fees
Q:Why should I choose a low-fee brokerage in Phoenix AZ?
A: Traditional brokerages take 20-50% of your hard-earned commission through splits, desk fees, technology fees, and franchise fees. At Open House Realty, you keep up to 100% of your commission with just a small monthly fee ($25) and transaction fee ($295). Zero entry fees, zero desk fees, zero tech fees means more money in your pocket from day one.
Q:What commission splits do you offer agents in Maricopa County?
A: We offer two flexible commission plans: (1) 90/10 Split with Zero Fees - you keep 90% of every commission with absolutely no monthly fees, no transaction fees, and no desk fees. Perfect for newer agents or those who want simplicity. (2) 100% Commission Plan - keep every dollar you earn for just $25/month and $295 per closed transaction. Both plans include E&O insurance and full broker support.
Q:Are there any hidden fees I should know about?
A: We believe in complete transparency. There are no entry fees, no startup costs, no franchise fees, no technology fees, no desk fees, and no mandatory meeting fees. Our 90/10 plan is 90% to you, 10% to the brokerage - that's it. Our 100% plan is $25/month plus $295 per transaction. One situational fee to know: if a title company cannot pay the agent directly and must pay the brokerage first, there is an additional processing fee of $500 (or 20% of the brokerage portion, whichever is less). Most transactions pay directly to the agent, so this rarely applies. Also important: commissions are released when all file requirements are met. The Broker may charge fees as deemed appropriate if an agent fails to submit required documents to the transaction (see your Independent Contractor Agreement for full details).
Q:How does the 100% commission plan compare to other brokerages?
A: Most "100% commission" brokerages charge $500-1,500+ monthly, plus transaction fees of $500 or more, plus annual fees, technology fees, and E&O costs. Our 100% plan costs just $25/month and $295 per transaction with E&O insurance included. On a typical $10,000 commission, you'd pay just $320 total versus $2,000+ at other brokerages. That's thousands more in your pocket each year.
Q:What is the best commission split for new agents in Arizona?
A: For new agents, our 90/10 No-Fee Plan is often the best choice. You keep 90% of every commission with zero monthly fees, zero transaction fees, and zero startup costs. This lets you build your business without financial pressure. Once you're closing 3+ transactions per month, switching to our 100% plan may make more sense mathematically.
Q:What are the zero onboarding fees at Open House Realty?
A: Open House Realty charges absolutely zero onboarding fees. There is no application fee, no startup cost, no desk fee deposit, and no training fee to join. Many brokerages charge $500-2,000+ just to start. We believe you should keep your money for building your business, not paying to join.
Q:Are there zero signup fees to join Open House Realty?
A: Yes, there are zero signup fees. The application is free, the license transfer is handled at no cost to you, and you can start working immediately with no upfront investment. Whether you choose our 90/10 or 100% plan, there is no cost to get started.
Q:How much does a new real estate agent make in Arizona?
A: New agents in Arizona typically earn $30,000-$60,000 in their first year, with top performers earning $80,000+. Your income depends largely on your hustle, market knowledge, and the commission structure you choose. At Open House Realty, our agents keep significantly more of each commission compared to traditional brokerages—meaning you can earn more even with fewer transactions. Our 90/10 plan lets you keep 90% from day one with zero fees.
Q:What is a cap at a real estate brokerage and does Open House Realty have one?
A: A "cap" is the maximum amount a brokerage takes from your commissions per year before you go to 100%. Some large franchises set caps at $16,000-$25,000+. Open House Realty doesn't use a cap model—instead, we offer straightforward plans. Our 90/10 plan takes just 10% with no monthly fees, and our 100% plan costs $25/month plus $295 per transaction. No games, no complicated math. You always know exactly what you're paying.
Q:Does Open House Realty charge desk fees or affiliation fees?
A: No. Open House Realty charges zero desk fees and zero affiliation fees. Many brokerages charge $50–$200+/month just to keep your license parked. We don't. If you're not actively producing, you can hang your license with us under our Tier 3 (ARMLS Waiver) at absolutely no cost to you — no association fees, no MLS fees, no desk fees. When you're ready to get back to work, just move up to Tier 1 or Tier 2.
Service Areas
Q:Do you serve areas outside Phoenix like Prescott or Show Low?
A: Yes! Open House Realty serves all of Arizona. Our primary coverage includes: Maricopa County (Phoenix, Scottsdale, Glendale, Mesa, Peoria, Surprise, Goodyear, Buckeye, Sun City, and all surrounding areas) via ARMLS, Yavapai County (Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley) via AAR MLS access, and the White Mountain region including Show Low, Pinetop-Lakeside, Heber, Overgaard, Holbrook, and Concho. Our agents work valley-wide and statewide.
Q:Can I work in multiple MLS areas with Open House Realty?
A: Absolutely. Many of our agents work across multiple MLS areas. We have ARMLS access for Maricopa County and AAR MLS access for Yavapai County (Prescott area). If you need access to additional MLS systems for Show Low, Flagstaff, or other areas, we can help you get set up. There's no additional brokerage fee for working in multiple markets.
Q:Does Open House Realty serve Show Low and the White Mountain region?
A: Yes! The White Mountain region includes Show Low, Pinetop-Lakeside, Heber, Overgaard, Holbrook, and Concho—and we have agents serving those areas. We also have agents in Prescott and throughout Maricopa County. Whether you're working in the cool pines of the White Mountains or the surrounding communities, Open House Realty has you covered with broker support and training resources.
Q:What areas does Open House Realty cover in Yavapai County?
A: We cover all of Yavapai County through our AAR MLS access, including Prescott, Prescott Valley, Dewey-Humboldt, Chino Valley, Camp Verde, Cottonwood, Jerome, and Sedona. Whether you're working in the pine-covered Prescott area or the red rocks of Sedona, you'll have full MLS access and broker support.
Support & Training
Q:What kind of broker support do you provide?
A: We provide 24/7 broker support because real estate doesn't stop at 5 PM. You can reach Ivy Clay, our broker with 20+ years of Arizona real estate experience, whenever you need guidance on contracts, negotiations, or tricky situations. We also provide transaction coordination assistance, marketing support, and a supportive community of fellow agents.
Q:Do you offer training for new real estate agents?
A: Yes! Our AZ Realtor Academy provides free online training available 24/7. It includes interactive quizzes, flashcards, real-world Arizona scenarios, and step-by-step guides for every type of transaction. Learn at your own pace, on your own schedule. We cover everything from writing your first contract to handling complex commercial deals.
Q:Is E&O insurance included or do I need to buy it separately?
A: E&O (Errors & Omissions) insurance is included at no extra cost with both of our commission plans. This is a $500+ value that most brokerages make you pay separately. You're protected from day one without any additional fees or paperwork.
Q:Are there mandatory meetings or office hours?
A: No mandatory meetings. Ever. We respect that your time is valuable and you know how to run your business. You won't sit through pointless weekly meetings, attend required training sessions during your selling hours, or show up at an office just to prove you're working. Focus on closing deals and serving your clients.
Q:Does Open House Realty offer AI classes and AI tools for agents?
A: Yes! We are at the forefront of real estate technology. Our agents have access to AI classes that teach prompt engineering, Grok for real estate, AI-powered listing descriptions, market analysis tools, and automated lead follow-up strategies. We believe AI is the future of real estate and provide training to help you leverage these tools.
Q:What marketing and lead generation tools does Open House Realty provide?
A: We provide comprehensive marketing support including access to professional listing photography guidance, social media templates, email marketing strategies, and our Marketing Hub packed with battle-tested strategies that actually work. Our agents get trained on lead generation through digital marketing, sphere of influence marketing, social media strategies, and proven referral systems that top producers use.
Getting Started
Q:How do I join Open House Realty?
A: Joining is simple and free. Visit our Join Our Team page, fill out the application, and we'll typically respond within 24 hours. There are no entry fees, no startup costs, and no long-term contracts. You can start closing deals as soon as your license transfer is complete.
Q:What do I need to transfer my license to Open House Realty?
A: You'll need an active Arizona real estate license in good standing. We guide you through the ADRE transfer process step by step. Most transfers complete within 3-5 business days. If you're coming from another brokerage, there's no need to notify them first - we'll coordinate everything once you're ready.
Q:Can I switch commission plans later?
A: Yes! You can switch between our 90/10 No-Fee Plan and 100% Commission Plan with 90 days notice. Current listings are paid under your current plan. Really active agents often love the 100% plan because they keep more money. Part-time and newer agents often prefer the 90/10 plan because they pay nothing unless they're earning money.
Q:Is there a minimum production requirement?
A: No minimum production requirements. Whether you're a part-time agent closing a few deals a year or a top producer closing dozens, you're welcome at Open House Realty. We believe in supporting agents at every stage of their career without arbitrary quotas or caps.
Q:Can I sign up for Open House Realty online?
A: Yes! Our entire signup process is 100% online. Visit our Join Our Team page, complete the simple application form, and submit. No need to visit an office, mail documents, or attend an in-person interview. We can have you set up and ready to work the same day.
Q:Is the workflow at Open House Realty simple and easy?
A: Absolutely. We designed our systems for simplicity. Our agent portal provides streamlined transaction management, easy document uploads, and clear checklists for every transaction type. No complex software to learn, no convoluted approval processes. Submit your deals, get broker support when needed, and focus on selling.
Q:Do I have to attend an interview to join Open House Realty?
A: No interview required. If you have an active Arizona real estate license, you're welcome to join. Our application is simple and online — no hoops to jump through. Fill out the form on our Join Our Team page and we'll get you set up quickly.
Q:Do I need to be a Realtor or have MLS access to join Open House Realty?
A: Not necessarily — we offer a flexible tiered membership policy so you only pay for what you need. Tier 1 (Full Realtor + MLS): Required for agents actively listing, selling, or transacting. This gives you full branding, tools, networking, advocacy, and compliance through your local association and MLS. Tier 2 (Non-Member MLS Access): Optional for agents who want MLS access but want to save $150–$300+/year by skipping the Realtor association membership. Tier 3 (ARMLS Waiver): The default for agents who aren't currently producing. Zero association and MLS fees — you maintain your license under our brokerage at no cost. If you need an even longer break, we can help you go fully ADRE inactive. Open House Realty charges no desk fee and no affiliation fee on any tier.
About the Brokerage
Q:Who owns and runs Open House Realty?
A: Open House Realty is owned and operated by Ivy Clay, a broker with over 20 years of experience in Arizona real estate and property management. Ivy started Open House Realty to give agents an alternative to the high-fee, high-pressure traditional brokerage model. She believes agents should keep more of what they earn while still getting the support they need.
Q:How long has Open House Realty been in business?
A: Open House Realty was founded in 2023 by Ivy Clay, a broker with over 20 years of Arizona real estate experience. We've quickly grown by helping agents build successful careers while keeping more of their hard-earned commissions. Our flat-fee MLS listing service drives traffic to our agents, helping them close more deals and earn more money.
Q:What makes Open House Realty different from other low-fee brokerages?
A: Three things set us apart: (1) Truly zero hidden fees - no technology fees, desk fees, or surprise charges, (2) Real 24/7 broker support from an experienced Arizona broker, not a call center, (3) Included E&O insurance. Many "discount" brokerages nickle-and-dime you with add-on fees or provide minimal support. We offer premium service at a fraction of traditional brokerage costs.
Q:Is Open House Realty a legitimate brokerage?
A: Absolutely. Open House Realty is a fully licensed real estate brokerage in Arizona (verify our license with ADRE). We have professional, experienced agents statewide and provide excellent broker support. We handle everything from luxury properties to first-time homebuyers, and we also offer flat-fee MLS listing services for sellers. Our flat-fee program actually drives traffic to our agents - helping them connect with motivated sellers and close more deals. Ivy Clay, our broker, has over 20 years of Arizona real estate experience.
Q:Does Open House Realty have a good reputation and reviews?
A: Yes! Open House Realty maintains a 5.0 star rating with excellent reviews from our agents. Our reputation is built on treating agents fairly, providing genuine support, and delivering on our promises. Many of our agents have been with us for years and refer their colleagues. We encourage you to ask any current agent about their experience.
Q:Are agents at Open House Realty happy?
A: Our agents consistently report high satisfaction. They appreciate the high commission splits, zero hidden fees, supportive broker relationship, and complete flexibility. Many have told us that joining Open House Realty was the best career decision they made. We have minimal turnover because agents stay where they're treated well and keep more of their earnings.
Q:How does your flat-fee MLS service benefit agents?
A: Our flat-fee MLS listing service is a unique advantage for our agents. Here's how it works: sellers come to us for affordable MLS listings, but many of them need additional help with showings, negotiations, or want full-service support. When they do, our agents are first in line to help and close those deals. You can also offer flat-fee options to your own clients at any price point—giving you flexibility other brokerages don't offer. It's built-in lead generation that helps you close more deals and make more money.
Technology & Innovation
Q:Does Open House Realty use AI and blockchain technology?
A: Yes! We are pioneering the use of AI and blockchain in Arizona real estate. Our agents access AI-powered tools for listing descriptions, market analysis, and client communication. We also support blockchain-based transactions including cryptocurrency purchases. We believe technology should empower agents, not replace them.
Q:What AI training does Open House Realty provide?
A: Our AI curriculum covers practical applications including: using Grok for property descriptions, AI-powered CRM and follow-up automation, market analysis with AI tools, social media content generation, and understanding how AI is changing real estate search. We update training regularly as new tools emerge.
Q:Can Open House Realty agents work remotely?
A: Absolutely! Remote work is fully supported. Our entire operation is cloud-based with online transaction management, digital document signing, virtual broker meetings, and electronic everything. Many of our agents work from home, coffee shops, or while traveling. You never need to come to an office unless you want to.
Q:What online workflows does Open House Realty offer?
A: Our agent portal includes: online transaction creation and tracking, digital document uploads and storage, automated checklist management, electronic communication with your broker, marketing resource library, and training academy access. Everything you need is available 24/7 from any device.
Q:Does Open House Realty accept cryptocurrency transactions?
A: Yes! We support cryptocurrency real estate transactions. As blockchain technology becomes more mainstream, we're prepared to handle Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrency purchases. We also partner with Propy, an industry-leading title company experienced in cryptocurrency real estate closings. If you're interested in a crypto transaction, Propy is an excellent resource. Contact Ivy Clay directly for details on cryptocurrency transactions and the special considerations involved.
Q:What digital tools does Open House Realty provide agents?
A: We provide access to: cloud-based transaction management, digital document storage, e-signature integration, CRM recommendations, marketing automation guidance, AI tools training, and our proprietary AZ Realtor Academy. We continuously evaluate and recommend new tools to keep our agents competitive.
Office & Work Environment
Q:Does Open House Realty have a nice office?
A: Yes! Our Glendale office provides a professional, welcoming environment for agents who want to work in-office or meet clients. However, office use is completely optional. Many agents work entirely remotely and never visit. The choice is yours - we support whatever work style helps you succeed.
Q:Can I work from home as an Open House Realty agent?
A: Absolutely! Many of our agents work 100% from home. With our online transaction system, digital document management, and virtual broker support, there's no need to ever visit an office. We trust our agents to manage their business professionally from wherever they work best.
Q:Is Open House Realty a good brokerage for part-time agents?
A: Excellent choice for part-time agents! With no minimum production requirements, no mandatory meetings, zero monthly fees on our 90/10 plan, and complete flexibility, you can work at your own pace. Many of our agents balance real estate with other careers or family responsibilities.
Q:Do I need to attend office meetings at Open House Realty?
A: No mandatory office meetings ever. We respect your time. If you want to connect with other agents or attend optional training sessions, those opportunities exist. But you'll never be required to sit through mandatory meetings, sales rallies, or "motivation" sessions that take time away from your business.
Q:What is the culture like at Open House Realty?
A: We love technology and we love teaching and sharing it with everyone — no boundaries, no gatekeeping. Whether you're brand new or a seasoned pro, you'll feel welcome here. Our culture is supportive, professional, and agent-focused. There's no drama, no politics, no pressure tactics. Just a community of real estate professionals who enjoy helping each other succeed while keeping more of what they earn.
Career Transitions
Q:How do I switch brokerages in Arizona without losing momentum?
A: Switching brokerages in Arizona is straightforward through the Arizona Department of Real Estate (ADRE). At Open House Realty, we handle the transfer paperwork for you. Most transfers complete within 3-5 business days. Your pending transactions transfer with you, and there's no gap in your MLS access. Many agents switch on a Friday and are fully operational by Monday. To request a HIRE, visit the ADRE website and search for our brokerage — License Number: LC700512000, Legal Name: OPEN HOUSE REALTY AND MANAGMENT LLC.
Q:Can I transfer my real estate license from another state to Arizona?
A: Arizona doesn't have full reciprocity with other states, but they do offer a streamlined process for licensed agents. You'll need to pass the Arizona-specific portion of the real estate exam and apply through ADRE. The process typically takes 2-4 weeks. Once your Arizona license is active, Open House Realty can have you set up and working within 24 hours.
Q:Is it worth getting a real estate license in Arizona in 2026?
A: Absolutely. Arizona remains one of the fastest-growing states in the country with strong population growth, especially in the Phoenix metro, Prescott, and the White Mountains. The median home price in Maricopa County continues to support healthy commissions, and demand for agents remains high. With a low-fee brokerage like Open House Realty, you keep more of each commission, making the career even more financially rewarding.
Q:What do I need to become a real estate agent in Arizona?
A: To get your Arizona real estate license, you need to: (1) Be at least 18 years old, (2) Complete 90 hours of approved pre-licensing education, (3) Pass the Arizona real estate exam, (4) Submit fingerprints and pass a background check, (5) Apply to ADRE and get your license number, (6) Hang your license with a brokerage like Open House Realty. The entire process typically takes 4-8 weeks depending on how fast you complete the coursework.
Q:I'm a new agent with no experience — will Open House Realty train me?
A: Yes! Our AZ Realtor Academy provides comprehensive free training covering everything from writing your first purchase contract to negotiating complex deals. We offer interactive quizzes, flashcards, real-world Arizona scenarios, and step-by-step guides. Plus, Broker Ivy Clay is available for one-on-one guidance whenever you have questions. Many of our most successful agents started their careers with us.
Q:Can military veterans or retirees become real estate agents in Arizona?
A: Absolutely, and many do! Real estate offers the flexibility that veterans and retirees value—set your own schedule, work from anywhere, and earn based on your effort. Arizona has a large military and retiree population, which means built-in networking opportunities. At Open House Realty, our zero-fee onboarding and flexible commission plans make it easy to start without significant upfront investment.
Arizona Market Insights
Q:What is the average home price in Phoenix and Maricopa County in 2026?
A: The Phoenix metro area and Maricopa County have seen median home prices in the $400,000-$450,000 range, with significant variation by neighborhood. Scottsdale and Paradise Valley command much higher prices ($700,000-$2M+), while cities like Buckeye, Surprise, and Apache Junction offer more affordable options ($300,000-$380,000). Our agents work across all price points and neighborhoods throughout the Valley.
Q:Is the Prescott Arizona real estate market good for agents?
A: Prescott and Prescott Valley have become one of Arizona's hottest markets. Retirees, remote workers, and families seeking the pine-covered lifestyle continue to drive demand. Home prices in Yavapai County are typically $350,000-$550,000, with luxury properties near Prescott National Forest commanding premium prices. Open House Realty has full AAR MLS access for agents serving this market.
Q:What is the real estate market like in Show Low and the White Mountains?
A: The White Mountain region—Show Low, Pinetop-Lakeside, Heber-Overgaard—is a growing market driven by buyers seeking cooler mountain living, vacation homes, and retirement properties. Median prices are generally lower than Phoenix ($250,000-$400,000), but the market is active year-round. Open House Realty agents serve this entire region with full MLS access and broker support.
Q:Which Phoenix suburbs are growing the fastest for real estate?
A: The fastest-growing Phoenix suburbs include Buckeye (one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation), Queen Creek, Goodyear, Surprise, and Gilbert. These areas offer newer construction, family-friendly communities, and relatively affordable entry points. Agents working in these markets see consistent transaction volume due to new construction and resale activity. Open House Realty agents are active across all of these communities.
Q:How does the NAR settlement affect Arizona real estate agents?
A: The NAR settlement requires buyer representation agreements before showing homes and changes how buyer agent compensation is communicated. At Open House Realty, we've adapted our training and processes to keep agents compliant and competitive. Our broker stays current on all regulatory changes and provides guidance on buyer agreements, compensation negotiations, and disclosure requirements specific to Arizona.
Q:What types of properties sell best in Arizona?
A: Arizona's most active property segments include: single-family homes in master-planned communities (Phoenix suburbs), luxury homes with mountain or desert views (Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Sedona), investment properties and short-term rentals (Scottsdale, Tempe, Flagstaff area), retirement and active-adult communities (Sun City, Green Valley), and rural/horse properties (Cave Creek, Queen Creek, Wickenburg). Our agents have experience across all property types.
Flat-Fee MLS for Agents
Q:How does the flat-fee MLS service help Open House Realty agents get more leads?
A: Our flat-fee MLS listing service attracts motivated sellers to OpenHouseRealtyAZ.com. Many of these sellers realize they want more help during the process—scheduling showings, negotiating offers, or navigating inspections. When they do, our agents are first in line for those referrals. It's essentially built-in lead generation that other brokerages can't offer. Some agents close multiple deals per year just from flat-fee seller referrals.
Q:Can I offer flat-fee MLS listings to my own clients?
A: Yes! As an Open House Realty agent, you can offer flat-fee MLS options to your clients at any price point. This gives you a competitive edge—you can accommodate budget-conscious sellers who might otherwise go to a discount service, while still earning a fee. It's flexibility that other brokerages simply don't provide.
Q:What is FSBO and how does flat-fee MLS compare?
A: FSBO (For Sale By Owner) means selling without an agent or MLS exposure—typically just a yard sign and online classifieds. Flat-fee MLS provides full MLS exposure (Zillow, Realtor.com, Redfin, 100+ sites) for a flat fee instead of a percentage commission. Studies consistently show MLS-listed homes sell for significantly more than FSBO-only listings. Open House Realty's flat-fee service bridges the gap—sellers get professional MLS exposure while managing the sale themselves.
Compliance & Legal
Q:What is E&O insurance and why is it important for Arizona agents?
A: Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance protects you from lawsuits alleging professional negligence—missed deadlines, incorrect disclosures, contract errors, etc. Arizona doesn't legally require it, but most brokerages do, and you'd be taking on enormous personal risk without it. At Open House Realty, E&O insurance is included free with both commission plans—a $500+ annual value that other brokerages make you pay separately.
Q:What disclosures are required when selling a home in Arizona?
A: Arizona requires several disclosures including: the Seller's Property Disclosure Statement (SPDS), Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (pre-1978 homes), Affidavit of Disclosure (unincorporated areas), and any known material facts about the property. HOA disclosures, well/septic information, and solar lease details are also required when applicable. Our broker provides guidance on what's needed for each specific transaction.
Q:How does Open House Realty handle transaction compliance?
A: Every transaction at Open House Realty goes through compliance review. Our system provides checklists for required documents based on transaction type (buyer, seller, lease, etc.), tracks deadlines, and ensures all Arizona-required disclosures are complete. Our broker reviews contracts and provides guidance on compliance issues. We use technology to streamline this process so it doesn't slow down your deals.
Q:What happens if I make a mistake on a real estate transaction?
A: Mistakes happen—that's why E&O insurance exists, and it's included free at Open House Realty. Common issues include missed contingency deadlines, incorrect property disclosures, or documentation errors. The key is communication: reach out to your broker immediately. Ivy Clay has 20+ years of experience resolving complex situations and will help you navigate any challenges professionally.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help. Reach out directly and get answers from Ivy Clay, our broker with 20+ years experience.