eXp Realty is better suited for agents looking for comprehensive support, training, and long-term wealth-building opportunities through revenue sharing and stock options, despite the various fees. Homelight is more appropriate for agents seeking lead generation and immediate client connections without upfront costs, but are willing to pay a substantial referral fee.
| Attribute | eXp Realty | Homelight |
|---|---|---|
| Commission Structure | 80/20 split, capping at $16,000 annually. 100% commission after cap (minus transaction fees). New agents enter eXp Mentor Program with an additional 20% split for first 3 transactions. | Agents pay a 33% referral fee to HomeLight (approximately 1% of the listing agent commission). |
| Agent Support and Training | Live training classes weekly, guest speakers, workshops, on-demand training videos, mentorship programs for new agents. | Not available |
| Technology Platform and Tools | kvCORE (CRM), SkySlope (transaction management), eXp World, MyeXp mobile app. CRM of Choice (BoldTrail, Cloze, or Lofty) available as of July 1, 2025. | Platform includes tools for agent matching, home valuation, and connecting with cash buyers. Aims to streamline real estate transactions. |
| Marketing Resources | Website design, content creation, social media management, guidance on branding and ad campaigns. | Provides marketing resources for agents to create client presentations. |
| Lead Generation System | kvCORE, Making It Rain (paid service), eXp Referral Network. | Operates as a lead generation system, ranking agents by volume and presenting those who pay for the program. |
| Brand Recognition and Reputation | Recognized in Forbes and featured in tech outlets like GeekWire. | Well-established company with generally positive customer reviews (average rating of 4.4/5). |
| Geographic Coverage | All 50 U.S. states, Canada, Mexico, Australia, the United Kingdom, and several other countries. | Operates nationwide in the United States. |
| Stock Options/Ownership Opportunities | EXPI stock for achieving goals, option to receive 5% of commission in stock (5% discount). | Private, venture-backed company; employees may receive stock options or restricted stock units. |
| Community and Culture | Collaborative environment where agents share strategies and support each other. | Not available |
| Revenue Sharing Model | Agents earn a percentage of the commission split from agents they sponsor. | Generates revenue through referral fees from agents after successful transactions. |
| Fees and Expenses | Startup Fee: $149, Monthly Fee: $85, Transaction Fee: $250 per transaction after capping, then $75 after paying $5000 in transaction fees, Risk Management (E&O) Fee: $60 per sale (capped at $750 annually), Broker Review Fee: $25 per transaction. | 33% referral fee on agent's commission; 2.4% service fee for Buy Before You Sell program; potential additional fees for specific services. |
| Agent Onboarding Process | Application, license verification, broker approval, document completion, license transfer. Onboarding Analyst assigned. Takes 2-5 business days. | No upfront costs; agents can set up their profile to attract clients. |