Let’s talk money.
And how to keep more of it when buying a home.
If you’re a millennial navigating today’s real estate market, you already know the deal: rising prices, high interest rates, and fierce competition.
It’s no wonder that homeownership feels more overwhelming than ever. But here’s one smart, underrated finance tip that could save you thousands:
Use a homebuyer rebate
Most people don’t even know it exists. It’s one of the easiest ways to lower your out-ofpocket costs when buying a home. Every dollar counts. And it’s a smart move that’s easy to claim.
Homebuyer Rebate Basics
A homebuyer rebate is exactly what it sounds like. It is cash back from your agent’s commission after the home purchase is complete.
When you buy a home, the seller often times pays the commission for both their agent and yours. It is usually around 5–6% of the sale price and it is split between the two.
With a homebuyer rebate, your agent gives you a slice of that commission as a thank-you or incentive. Depending on the platform or agent you use, that could mean thousands of dollars back in your pocket.
For instance, if you buy a $400,000 home and your agent earns a 2.5% commission ($10,000), a 1% rebate would give you $4,000 back at closing. That’s actual savings you can use for anything you like such as closing costs, repairs, or new furniture.
Why Millennials Should Care
As a generation, millennials are more financially cautious. And for good reasons.
Many are still juggling student loans, high rent, and rising costs of living. We’re also entering the housing market later than previous generations, often with tighter budgets and more financial pressure.
So when it comes to buying a home, using a homebuyer rebate is smart planning.
You’re already paying for the home, the inspection, the appraisal, and all those fees that come with closing. Why not offset some of that by choosing an agent or platform that gives a portion of the commission back to you?
How to Score a Homebuyer Rebate
WithJoy.AI, a home search site particularly designed for people who want to save when buying a home. It gives buyers a rebate at closing, making the process more affordable without sacrificing the guidance and support you actually need.
It’s important to ask upfront whether they offer a commission rebate before working with an agent. And if they do, ask how much you can expect to receive. Some agents provide a flat amount, others base the rebate on a percentage of the home’s purchase price, so it’s worth comparing your options.
Once you’ve confirmed the details, make sure to inform your lender, as the rebate needs to be disclosed during the mortgage process to ensure it is applied correctly.
Just remember, you don’t need to sacrifice excellent service to get a rebate. Many agents who offer them still provide full support.
Buy Smart, Not Just Big
Making smart, intentional choices is key when it comes to major financial decisions.
A homebuyer rebate is a rare chance to take something back during the buying process. It won’t make housing prices magically drop of course, but it will give you a meaningful boost.
If you’re planning to buy, don’t just ask how much house you can afford. Ask how much you can save.
Building wealth starts with small, smart moves, and this one is too easy to ignore.
