Ellis Gardner at RE/MAX Renaissance Realtors in Chattanooga: Single-Agent Profile in a Multi-Office Brokerage

Ellis Gardner is a real estate agent operating under RE/MAX Renaissance Realtors, one of Chattanooga's multi-office brokerages with locations serving the greater metro area. Gardner works within RE/MAX's commission-based model, where compensation depends on closed sales rather than salary, and operates as an independent contractor licensed by the Tennessee Real Estate Commission.

What Ellis Gardner actually is

Gardner functions as a listing agent, buyer's agent, or both, depending on the transaction. As part of RE/MAX Renaissance, Gardner has access to the brokerage's support infrastructure, shared databases, and marketing resources, but operates with significant independence in how she conducts client relationships. RE/MAX agents typically work on 100% commission after expenses and desk fees, meaning Gardner's income is directly tied to closed transactions and incentivizes speed and deal volume over hand-holding. This structure differs fundamentally from salaried agents at smaller independent brokerages, where compensation may not align as tightly with closing outcomes.

How agent compensation and buyer representation work

When buying, a buyer can work with any licensed agent; that agent represents the buyer's interests and typically earns 2.5% to 3% of the sale price paid by the seller's side of the transaction. When selling, the homeowner hires a listing agent, who usually offers the buyer's agent a percentage of the total commission (often 2.5% to 3% of sale price). Total commission on a $300,000 home in Chattanooga typically ranges from 5% to 6% of the sale price, split between listing and buyer's agents. Buyers pay nothing directly; the seller's proceeds cover all commissions.

Working with Gardner as a buyer's agent costs the buyer nothing out of pocket. Working with Gardner as a listing agent means paying a commission that reduces net proceeds. A seller should ask Gardner directly what commission rate she proposes before signing a listing agreement. This rate is negotiable and varies by market conditions, agent experience, and property complexity.

Evaluating Gardner against other Chattanooga options

Chattanooga real estate agents operate through various brokerage models. Large national franchises like Keller Williams and Century 21 offer agents support staff, training, and brand visibility but charge agents higher desk fees; individual agents compete within those offices and may have less flexibility in negotiation. Independent boutique brokerages in Chattanooga, such as smaller local firms, may offer tighter client relationships but fewer resources and less market data infrastructure. RE/MAX operates as a pure independent contractor model, meaning Gardner keeps more of each commission (after paying a desk fee to the brokerage) but receives minimal support from the office itself and must build her own buyer and seller networks.

Choose Gardner if you value an agent who works in a high-volume, commission-driven environment and has access to RE/MAX's multi-office database. Choose a Keller Williams or Century 21 agent if you prefer a larger support staff and training pipeline. Choose a boutique independent broker if you want a small-office relationship and are willing to accept less sophisticated marketing and market data systems.

Services and pricing

Gardner's services as a buyer's agent include property showings, market analysis, offer drafting, negotiation, and coordination through closing. As a listing agent, services typically include market analysis, listing on MLS, photography and marketing materials, showings, offer negotiation, and closing coordination. Pricing for listing agents varies; ask Gardner for her specific rate before engagement. Buyer representation is free to the buyer; the seller's transaction pays the commission. There are no flat fees or hourly rates typical in the RE/MAX model; all compensation is contingent on closing.

Who Gardner suits and who she does not

Gardner works well for sellers comfortable with a commission-based agent in a high-volume brokerage and for buyers seeking an agent without direct cost. She may be less suitable for sellers who want extensive staging advice, project management, or frequent communication; RE/MAX agents often prioritize volume and may not customize service per client. Gardner may not be the right fit for buyers who want a handholding, relationship-based buying experience from someone at a small boutique firm. Chattanooga buyers and sellers accustomed to negotiating flat fees or hourly arrangements will find RE/MAX's commission-only model inflexible.

First steps and contact

Contact Gardner directly to discuss your transaction, timeline, and specific needs. Expect a conversation about comparable sales (if selling) or your budget and preferences (if buying). If listing, request a comparative market analysis and ask her proposed commission rate before committing. If buying, ask how she structures showings and how quickly she communicates offers and feedback.

Hours and logistics

Gardner operates on a flexible schedule typical of independent agents; contact her to arrange calls, showings, and meetings. RE/MAX Renaissance Realtors has multiple Chattanooga-area office locations; your interactions with Gardner will likely be mobile or by phone rather than at a desk.

Ellis Gardner represents the transactional, commission-driven end of the Chattanooga market. She suits sellers and buyers who prioritize closing speed and are comfortable with minimal hand-holding in exchange for access to a brokerage database and a motivated agent.