Flat Fee MLS Listings: The Ultimate Guide (2024)

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By Michael Warford Updated January 19, 2024
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Edited by Steve Nicastro

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Are you considering selling your home by yourself (FSBO) but worried about visibility? A flat fee MLS listing service could be your solution, offering increased exposure without the hefty price tag.

A flat fee MLS service is an economical way to list your home on the local multiple listing service (MLS). This powerful tool is essential for visibility among potential buyers and is the primary resource real estate agents use to find homes for their clients. Plus, MLS listings are automatically shared on major real estate websites like Zillow, Movoto, and Realtor.com, ensuring widespread exposure.

Accessing the MLS typically requires a real estate license, but with a flat fee service, a licensed broker will list your home for you, eliminating the need for a traditional realtor.

If you're looking to save money but feel daunted by the DIY aspect of selling your home, a traditional real estate agent might be a better fit. 

Clever Real Estate offers a compelling alternative, negotiating flat 1.5% listing fees with full-service agents from renowned brokerages like Keller Williams and RE/MAX. This rate is significantly lower than the typical 2.5-3% charged by seller's agents, potentially saving you thousands of dollars and sparing you the complexities of selling your home on your own.

💰 Find top local agents and get a 1.5% listing fee!

Should I use a flat fee MLS listing service?

Deciding whether to use a flat fee MLS listing service hinges on a few key factors.

This service is best suited for home sellers who are confident and experienced in managing their own sale. If you're familiar with the for sale by owner (FSBO) approach and comfortable taking on the responsibilities yourself, a flat fee MLS listing can be an excellent choice. 

It's particularly advantageous for those who prefer a hands-on, DIY method of selling. By choosing this route, you could save approximately 2.83% in realtor commissions – the current national average as reported by Clever Real Estate. This choice not only offers financial advantages but also grants you complete control over the sales process, from start to finish.

However, remember that selling your home without an agent's help can be challenging and time-intensive. You'll be in charge of setting the price, marketing your home, and negotiating deals. Keep in mind, even with FSBO, you're likely to pay a buyer's agent commission, which averages 2.66% nationwide, but varies by state. 

For those with the know-how, selling FSBO can be a fulfilling journey, and a flat fee MLS service can be a valuable tool in this process. But if your primary goal is to save money, consider the advantages discount real estate brokers, which provide a more comprehensive service at a better value than going it alone. 

» SAVE: Find top local agents and get a 1.5% listing fee!

What are the benefits of a flat fee MLS listing?

You can save money on realtor commission

You could save thousands of dollars by using a flat fee listing service instead of paying a listing agent commission. Most flat fee MLS listing companies charge just a few hundred dollars — and some no-frills options are less than $100.

By comparison, a traditional listing agent charges around 2.5–3% of the final sale price. On a $500,000 home sale, a 3% commission would cost you $15,000. But be aware that selling without a realtor comes with risks that could mean you lose money in the long run.

You can pay just for the services you need

Many flat fee MLS listing companies let you pick the services you need. In addition to an MLS listing, they often offer à-la-carte services like pricing assistance, lockboxes, yard signs, and marketing materials.

You don't have to pay for services you won't use. For example, if you're comfortable negotiating with buyers but want help with closing, you can opt for a plan that includes support with closing but not negotiations.

You have more control over your sale

If you want control over how your home is priced and marketed, selling without a realtor may be appealing. While it’s more work for you, you get the final say over every step of the home selling process.

This control means you get to negotiate directly with buyers or buyer's agents. Troy Janes, who sold without a realtor, explains, “We could speak directly with the seller and negotiate the terms of the deal directly rather than going through the formal, time-consuming process of filling out forms for every little thing.”

» JUMP: Find the best flat fee MLS service near you

What are the risks of a flat fee MLS listing?

Homes sold without a realtor make less

Data from Clever Real Estate reveals a notable difference in sale prices between homes sold with and without a realtor. On average, sellers using an agent achieve nearly $50,000 more than those who go it alone.[1] Another study by the National Association of Realtors reports that agents frequently secure sales at the full asking price, or even higher.[2]

This significant difference in sale prices essentially negates any savings from bypassing the typical 2.5–3% listing agent commission. The expertise and negotiation skills of a realtor can play a crucial role in maximizing your home's sale price.

These homes sell for less for many reasons. DIY sellers can make serious pricing mistakes or fail to effectively negotiate with experienced buyer's agents. Clever's data supports this: Of those who sold without an agent in our survey, 50% say they wish they priced differently, compared to 28% of those who used a realtor.

Another factor is the reluctance of buyer's agents to show flat fee MLS listings. Many assume that working with FSBO sellers is more challenging, as it often requires them to handle tasks typically done by the seller's agent. 

As realtor Kristyn Grewell points out, buyer's agents working with FSBO sellers might end up doing more work for the same commission. This can lead them to prioritize other listings, resulting in less exposure and competition for FSBO properties, which can negatively impact the final sale price.

Deals can fall through during negotiations

Some buyer's agents can be aggressive when negotiating with FSBO sellers. They assume the seller is inexperienced and doesn’t know what a fair deal looks like. As Grewell says, “There are some agents that are kind of bulldogs out there especially when it comes to negotiations after we're under contract, like for repairs.”

Buyer's agents may demand that you make repairs or they'll walk away. However, if they were dealing with a listing agent, they’d likely show more flexibility. The listing agent could make a counteroffer, such as a home warranty in lieu of repairs, which sellers are less likely to think of themselves.

Similarly, some FSBO sellers can be too inflexible. Grewell continues, “If you get yourself stuck saying I'm not doing any repairs, and you don't have [an agent] saying, just spend the $1,000 dollars and get this to closing, sometimes [the seller] will get tunnel vision and let a deal go because they're being stubborn.”

Being your own realtor is hard work

When you sell without a realtor, you take on most of the tasks a realtor would do. This includes writing a listing description, pricing your home, taking photos, marketing, hosting showings, negotiating with buyer's agents, and closing.

Even if you choose a pricier flat fee MLS plan with extra support, it'll usually fall short of what you’d get with a full-service realtor. If any issues arise, you'll be responsible for dealing with them. As Grewell says, all of this work can leave FSBO sellers feeling like they’re “just putting out fires and it can be very stressful.”

💰 Incredible savings, none of the DIY

Selling your home is difficult, even with a flat-fee MLS company to handle your listing. Add in hidden fees, a la carte services, and premium service tiers, and you'll save a lot less than you planned, but still be stuck with most of the work.

There's a better option. Clever pre-negotiates cheaper listing fees with the top agents in your area. You still save on commission, while getting the support of a full-service agent.

  • Clever partner agents offer full-service support for a fraction of the full-service price: a 1.5% listing fee — half the typical rate.
  • Clever sellers save an average of $7,000 on commission AND they get offers 2.8x faster than the national average

Ready to find real estate agents who can help you save thousands on your sale? Enter your zip code below to get started!

How much does a flat fee MLS listing cost?

Typically, a flat fee MLS listing service charges $100–400 for a basic package. These plans include at least a 6-month MLS listing and 4 or more photos.

Most companies also offer premium flat fee packages for a few hundred dollars more. These plans can include longer listing terms, more pictures of your home, and help negotiating with buyers. Plans with broker support sometimes cost a flat fee and a percentage of the sale price at closing, usually 0.5–1%.

You can also find add-ons, like "for sale" signs and lockboxes, for around $25–100 each.

The value of premium plans depends a lot on the company. For example, Congress Realty and Houzeo both offer $399 plans, but only Congress Realty’s includes call forwarding. This service is almost essential if you don’t want to miss out on interested buyers. To get call forwarding with Houzeo, you have to upgrade to a plan that costs at least $999.

How much can I save with a flat fee MLS listing?

You could save thousands of dollars on real estate commission by using a flat fee MLS listing service.

But your actual savings depend on how much your house sells for. Homes sold without an agent sell for around 5.5% less than homes sold with an agent, potentially wiping out the savings you’d get by not paying a 2.5–3% listing fee.

Here's how much you could save, assuming a typical 3% fee for a listing agent and a $299 flat rate for an MLS listing.

Home sale price Typical full-service listing commission Typical flat fee MLS listing cost Potential savings
$100,000 $3,000 $299 $2,701
$200,000 $6,000 $299 $5,701
$350,000 $10,500 $299 $10,201
$500,000 $15,000 $299 $14,701
$1,000,000 $30,000 $299 $29,701
Show more

When you use a flat fee service, you'll probably still have to pay a 2–3% commission to the buyer's agent. Buyer’s agent commission comes from the sale proceeds, so it’s up to the seller to decide how much to offer.

You can technically offer less than the standard 2–3%, but that’ll make your house much harder to sell. Fewer buyers will see your property, which means less competition and potentially a lower sale price.

As realtor Kristyn Grewell says, “Agents are not going to work for free. In the US, buyers in most markets have no expectation of having to pay a commission to an agent. Offering none is not going to get your house shown.”

Flat fee MLS listing vs. full-service realtor

Besides cost, the difference between a full-service agent and a flat fee MLS listing company is the quality and amount of services they offer.

When you sell FSBO using an MLS listing service, you miss out on the expertise and comprehensive service of a traditional realtor.

While some FSBO sellers find the experience rewarding, it's not easy to sell your house on your own. Roughly 10% of sellers who try a FSBO sale eventually give up and hire a full-service listing agent.

» COMPARE: The full savings and value of a flat fee realtor vs. a flat fee MLS service

What do you get with a flat fee MLS listing?

At a minimum, a flat fee MLS listing company lists your house on your local MLS, typically for 6–12 months. Basic packages tend to limit the number of photos you can upload (sometimes as low as four) and may charge for listing changes and cancellation. Many plans include disclosure forms and a comparative marketing analysis to help you price your home.

You can get more services by upgrading to a more expensive package. A premium plan may include: 

  • A lockbox
  • Online appointment scheduling
  • DocuSign
  • Professional photography 
  • Pricing assistance
  • Agent support during negotiations
  • Paperwork assistance

However, premium packages can be poor value overall. The price may include a flat rate and a percentage at closing — which makes it expensive. If you need extra support, you’re usually better off finding a discount real estate agent who offers full service.

What do you get with a full service real estate agent?

When you work with a full-service agent, you get access to a suite of services that can be incredibly valuable to someone trying to sell their home. Typical services include:

  • Conducting a comparative market analysis (CMA)
  • Creating an MLS listing
  • Marketing your home
  • Negotiating with buyer's agents
  • Getting professional photography
  • Home staging
  • Scheduling and hosting showings
  • Helping with paperwork

Full-service agents are trained professionals who can advocate for you. They know from experience what's fair in a real estate transaction and what red flags to avoid. For example, they can effectively vet potential buyers’ financing, which can help you avoid deals falling through at the last minute.

» LEARN: How a full-service real estate agent makes selling your home easier

What is the best flat fee MLS listing service?

The best flat fee MLS listing service depends on how much experience you have selling homes and how much support you need.

If you're a highly experienced seller, a no-frills plan may be best. For example, Homecoin has a $95 flat fee plan that's designed for sellers who want to take a more DIY approach.

If you need more support in certain areas, like contracts or pricing, you should see what add-ons or premium plans are available in your area. For example, HomeZu has a contract review package where an agent reviews your sale agreement before you make it final.

The best flat fee MLS listing services for 2024

Company Clever Rating Customer Rating Listing Fee Availability
Best for user friendliness and customer experience
3.5
4.9/5 (9,000+ reviews)
$399 - $999+
Nationwide
Learn More
On listwithclever.com
3.5
4.9/5 (537 reviews)
$399 upfront + 0.1% at closing
Nationwide (except ND and WY)
Learn More
homezu.com
4.0
4.8/5 (112 reviews)
$95+
AZ, CA, FL, GA, IL, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OR, SC, TN, TX, VA, WA, WI
Learn More
On listwithclever.com
3
4.9/5 (105 reviews)
$299–499 or $399 upfront + 0.5% at closing
AZ, AK, CA, ID, LA, MT, NV, NM, OR, TX, UT, WA
Learn More
On congressrealty.com
4.5
4.5/5 (111 reviews)
$0 to $599 upfront + 0.5% at closing
Nationwide (except SD)
Learn More
On unrealestate.com
0
Varies by location
Varies by location
Varies by location
Nationwide
Learn More
On listwithclever.com
4.0
4.6/5 (587 reviews)
$99 to $599 upfront + 1% at closing
AL, CA, CT, FL, GA, IL, MN, NC, SC, TX
Learn More
On listwithclever.com
4.5
4.7/5 (60 reviews)
$299–399
Nationwide (except ND)
Learn More
On listwithclever.com
Best for user friendliness and customer experience

Houzeo

Learn More
On listwithclever.com
3.5

Listing Fee

$399 - $999+

Overview

Service packages

Locations

Houzeo stands out in the flat fee MLS listing service market with its range of packages, catering to sellers nationwide. The platform is highly-regarded for its user-friendliness, offering tools that simplify scheduling showings and reviewing offers.

Houzeo has garnered generally positive reviews, reflected in high ratings on platforms like Google and Trustpilot. These reviews often highlight the platform's efficiency and ease of use, making it a favorable choice for those handling their real estate transactions independently.

The company's variety of plans, including the popular Gold plan with a 0.5% closing fee and the comprehensive Platinum plan with a 1.0% fee, provide sellers with options to suit their specific needs. Whether you're looking for basic MLS listing services or more advanced features like the Houzeo Offers Platform, Houzeo has options that might fit your requirements.

Pros

  • Nationwide coverage and wide reach.
  • Enhanced visibility via the MLS.
  • Very easy to use.

Cons

  • Limited marketing services (no Facebook or Google advertising).
  • Potential for higher costs and lower profits on some packages.
  • Responsiveness and quality of agents can vary.

Bronze Package: $399

  • 6-month MLS listing
  • 24 photos
  • Unlimited listing changes
  • Unlimited open houses
  • Houzeo mobile app
  • Manage showings online

Silver Package: $999+ ($399 upfront + 0.5% at closing)

  • Includes everything in the Bronze package
  • Custom printed yard sign
  • Review and compare offers online
  • Disclosure forms
  • Personal concierge
  • Rush service (draft in 12 hours)
  • Call forwarding
  • Contract and form review with a broker

Gold Package: $999+ ($399 upfront + 0.5% at closing)

  • Includes everything in the Silver package
  • Additional advanced features for enhanced control and support in real estate transactions

Platinum Package: $999+ ($499 upfront + 1% at closing)

  • Includes everything in the Gold package
  • 12-month MLS listing
  • Coming soon listing (upon request, where available)
  • Listings on additional MLS (upon request, where available)
  • Pricing assistance
  • Contract-to-close broker consultation

Each package is designed to cater to different levels of seller needs, from basic MLS listing services to comprehensive support for the entire selling process.

Houzeo is available nationwide.

Best value for most sellers

HomeZu

Learn More
homezu.com
3.5

Listing Fee

$399 upfront + 0.1% at closing

Overview

Service packages

Locations

HomeZu is a flat fee MLS company with very positive customer reviews.

It offers one MLS package in most states, but in others, it also has a premium package. The only difference between the two is that the pricier premium plan includes a contract review by a licensed agent.

The basic MLS Listing package is good value for money, with a 25+ photo limit, free cancellation, and free listing changes. But if you need the 12-month listing upgrade, it costs an extra $99.

The Contract Review package is also competitively priced, but only one contract review is included. Every additional review costs $100. If you need multiple contract reviews, you'll quickly end up paying a lot more than you would with another company.

Also, HomeZu retains 0.1% of the buyer's agent commission.

Pros

  • The basic plan comes with 25+ photos.
  • You get free listing changes and cancellations.
  • All plans include lead forwarding and disclosure forms.

Cons

  • This company isn't the cheapest option if all you want is a no-frills plan.
  • The Contract Review package isn’t available everywhere.
  • The company retains 0.1% of the buyer's agent commission.

MLS Listing: $399 + 0.1% from the buyer’s agent commission

  • 6-month MLS listing (upgrade to 12 months for $99)
  • 25+ photos
  • Listing changes
  • Lead forwarding
  • Disclosure forms
  • 2 open house ads
  • Yard sign ($19)

Contract Review (only available in select states): $749 + 0.1% from the buyer’s agent commission

MLS Listing package, plus:

  • 1 contract review by a Simple Choice Realty agent
  • Additional contract reviews ($100 each)

HomeZu is available nationwide, except North Dakota and Wyoming.

A basic, no-frills option

Homecoin

Learn More
On listwithclever.com
4.0

Listing Fee

$95+

Overview

Service packages

Locations

Homecoin is a flat fee MLS listing service that's easy to use. It charges $95 for an MLS listing, and you can purchase additional services à la carte. However, its add-ons are pricey compared to similar companies.

If you want a DIY sale and a no-frills MLS listing, Homecoin offers the best MLS package. But if you need extra services, you're better off looking elsewhere.

Pros

  • Homecoin has one of the cheapest flat rate MLS options.
  • Sellers maintain control over their sale proces
  • It has received generally positive feedback for its straightforward platform, ease of use

Cons

  • Falls short in providing full-service brokerage offering
  • Competitors are often found to provide a more complete suite of services
  • Additional services may incur extra fees

Flat Fee MLS Listing: $95

  • Priced at $95 for a cost-effective property listing on the MLS.
  • 12-month listing duration with the option for free cancellation, offering flexibility to sellers.
  • Allows unlimited photos on the MLS.
  • Listings are featured on major real estate platforms, including Realtor.com and Zillow, increasing exposure.
  • Free call and email forwarding services facilitate communication between sellers and potential buyers.
  • Includes state and federal disclosures, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
  • Offers a free listing page, allowing sellers to showcase their property online effectively.
  • Provides 10 free listing changes, allowing sellers to update their listing as needed.

Homecoin is available in AZ, CA, FL, GA, IL, LA, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OR, SC, TN, TX, VA, WA, and WI.

Good for agent support

Congress Realty

Learn More
On congressrealty.com
3

Listing Fee

$299–499 or $399 upfront + 0.5% at closing

Overview

Service packages

Locations

Congress Realty has four MLS listing packages, ranging from basic to full agent support. Unlike many of its competitors, the company is licensed in each state where it operates, so you won’t have to deal with intermediaries.

The Basic and Plus plans are poor value. They have very low limits on photos and listing changes, making them impractical for most DIY sellers.

Only the Full Service plan has agent support and sales comps to help you more accurately price your home. But the Full Service plan is expensive since it combines a flat rate with a percentage commission.

Pros

  • You can upgrade from a 6-month listing to 2 years for only $50.
  • The Full Service plan is competitively priced.
  • All plans include a ShowingTime appointment tool and DocuSign.

Cons

  • You get only four photos with the Basic plan, which is too low for most sellers.
  • The Basic plan doesn't have automated phone lead forwarding.
  • Marketing add-ons aren’t included in the Full Service plan.

Basic: $299

  • 6-month MLS listing
  • 4 photos
  • 5 listing changes
  • DocuSign
  • ShowingTime
  • State forms and disclosures
  • Seller’s contact information on MLS listing

Plus:$399

Basic plan, plus:

  • Max photos allowed by MLS
  • 10 listing changes
  • Automated phone lead forwarding

Premium: $499

Plus plan, plus:

  • Unlimited listing changes
  • Unlimited open house postings
  • Listing posted on CongressRealty.com and social media

Full Service: $399 + 0.5% at closing

Premium plan, plus:

  • Dedicated agent support
  • Sales comps

Congress Realty is available in AZ, AK, CA, ID, LA, MT, NV, NM, OR, TX, UT, and WA.

Best range of plans

Unreal Estate

Learn More
On unrealestate.com
4.5

Listing Fee

$0 to $599 upfront + 0.5% at closing

Overview

Service packages

Locations

Unreal Estate has a variety of plans at competitive rates. Its Starter plan gets you on the MLS, and you don't have to pay until your house sells. However, this package allows only five photos, which likely isn't enough to properly display your home.

The Basic plan has a reasonable price, but the photo limit is still low at 15, and you have to settle for chat- or email-only support.

The Deluxe and Premium plans offer the best overall value, since they both have high photo limits.

However, Clever has partnered with Unreal Estate, so if you use code Clever, Unreal Estate drops the 0.5% charge on its Basic, Deluxe, and Premium plans. Instead, you pay a flat rate of $99, $250, or $450.

Pros

  • You only pay for your MLS listing if you sell.
  • With Clever, you can get exclusive, competitive rates for the most popular plans.
  • Online reviews praise the company's customer service.

Cons

  • Photo limits are low on the two cheapest plans.
  • Only the most expensive plan includes unlimited listing edits.
  • Customer support is available only via chat or email for the two lower-tier plans.

Starter: 0.5% at closing

  • 6-month MLS listing
  • 5 photos
  • Live chat support

Basic: $99 upfront + 0.5% at closing (or just $99 through Clever)
Starter package, plus:

  • 15 photos
  • Free cancellation
  • 2 listing or price edits
  • Lead caller ID
  • Email support

Deluxe: $139 upfront + 0.5% at closing (or just $250 through Clever)
Basic package, plus:

  • 25 photos
  • 4 listing or price edits
  • Yard sign
  • Call forwarding
  • Phone support

Premium: $249 upfront + 0.5% at closing (or just $450 through Clever)
Deluxe package, plus:

  • Max photos allowed by MLS
  • Unlimited listing or price edits
  • Buyer qualification information
  • Sales agreement review
  • 30-minute broker form review

Unreal Estate is available nationwide, except South Dakota.

Good for customer service

Flat Fee Group

Learn More
On listwithclever.com
0
Varies by location

Listing Fee

Varies by location

Overview

Service packages

Locations

Flat Fee Group is a nationwide organization of brokers, with one broker covering each state. Each broker operates independently, so prices and services vary a lot between states.

In most states, Flat Fee Group offers a wide range of plans. That makes it a good choice if you want a plan suited for your experience level.

Customer reviews vary between local brokerages. In general, Flat Fee Group’s local brokers have good online reviews and are highly experienced.

Pros

  • Customer reviews online are usually positive.
  • The company has a wide range of plans in most states.

Cons

  • Prices vary depending on where you live.
  • Add-ons and services vary between states.

Flat Fee Group’s prices and plans vary a lot between states. Visit the company website to see what it offers in your area.

Flat Fee Group is available nationwide.

Good digital support

Beycome

Learn More
On listwithclever.com
4.0

Listing Fee

$99 to $599 upfront + 1% at closing

Overview

Service packages

Locations

Beycome operates as a flat fee MLS listing service in Alabama, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Minnesota, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas.

Offering three packages, the service emphasizes affordability and flexibility in its Basic ($99) and Enhanced ($399) plans, both featuring unlimited MLS access, the maximum allowed MLS photos, and unrestricted listing changes.

The Concierge plan, priced at $599 plus 1% of the sale price, includes a dedicated agent but may not represent the best value compared to low commission companies that offer comprehensive service and support.

Pros

  • Listing stays active until your house sells.
  • The company provides English and Spanish customer support via phone, chat, and email.
  • You get the max photos allowed by the MLS.

Cons

  • Only the Concierge service includes a comparative market analysis and agent support.

Basic Package: $99

  • MLS listing with basic exposure
  • Allows maximum photos permitted by MLS
  • Unlimited modifications to listing
  • Open house scheduling feature
  • Management tool for home visits
  • Access to necessary legal forms and disclosures
  • Customer support in both English and Spanish

Enhanced Package:$399 

Includes all features of the Basic package, plus:

  • 25 professional HDR photos
  • Customizable flyers and brochures for marketing
  • Personalized yard sign for better visibility
  • Printable materials for promotion
  • Comprehensive open house package
  • Easy-to-share Craigslist advertisement
  • Virtual tour and YouTube video for online presence
  • Listing highlighted on beycome.com
  • Enhanced online listing presence through additional marketing channels
  • Organizational tools for open houses

Concierge Service: $599 upfront + 1% at closing (min. $999)

Includes Enhanced plan, plus:

  • Home valuation service and pricing assistance to optimize listing price
  • Full marketing support for extensive exposure
  • Immersive 3D tour for a detailed property view
  • Comprehensive negotiation and paperwork support to streamline the selling process
  • A dedicated closing coordinator for personalized guidance through the closing process

Beycome is available in AL, CA, CT, FL, GA, IL, MN, NC, SC, and TX.

Best for affordability

ISoldMyHouse.com

Learn More
On listwithclever.com
4.5

Listing Fee

$299–399

Overview

Service packages

Locations

iSoldMyHouse.com, established in 1997 and based in Manchester, Connecticut, positions itself as a budget-friendly alternative for homeowners aiming to sell without traditional agent commissions. Offering two main flat fee packages—"Get LISTED" for $299 and "Get SOLD" for $399—the service provides essential exposure on the MLS and potential cost savings by recommending sellers offer a 2-3% commission to buyers' agents only if the sale concludes with a represented buyer.

While the platform touts cost-efficiency and accessibility with services like professional photography and MLS submission, sellers must weigh the breadth of services offered. The basic package lacks in-depth support, such as comparative market analysis, pricing guidance, and due diligence aid, which are available at an additional cost or through upgraded packages. This piecemeal approach to essential services could add up, diluting the upfront savings.

iSoldMyHouse.com offers nationwide service and generally has positive online reviews. But its effectiveness and value for money can vary widely based on the seller's needs and the property's location.

Pros

  • Affordable listing options starting at $299.
  • The company generally has positive customer reviews.
  • The free online resources can help you learn how to sell on your own.

Cons

  • Staging advice and negotiation support not included in the basic package.
  • Some customers complain that customer service operates almost entirely online.
  • Neither package comes with many free extras.

Get LISTED!: $299

  • 6-month MLS listing
  • 6–10 photos
  • Lead forwarding
  • Online customer support
  • Custom printed sign ($75)
  • Lockbox ($50)
  • 1-month featured listing ($25)

Get SOLD!: $399

Get LISTED! plan, plus:

  • 12-month MLS listing
  • 25 photos (or max allowed by MLS)

ISoldMyHouse.com is directly licensed in Connecticut, Georgia, New York, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. The company has nationwide coverage through broker-to-broker partnerships in all remaining states.

Flat fee MLS listing services by state

There are hundreds (if not thousands) of flat fee MLS companies based throughout the United States. While there are big players such as Houzeo that offer services across the country, there are also many uber-local flat fee MLS companies too.

The potential benefits of opting for a homegrown service include more local market knowledge, more control over your listing, and better communication.

It’s also worth mentioning that many of the national services simply refer you to a local realtor or brokerage. So you might as well skip the middleman and work directly with a flat fee listing service based in your area.

Find your state below to compare flat fee MLS listing services near you.

Which flat fee MLS listing service should you use?

When comparing flat fee MLS services, it’s important to consider your specific needs and goals, because they'll dictate which features matter most to you. We've broken down some of the most important factors when evaluating different companies:

Alternatives to a flat fee MLS listing

If you’re looking to save on real estate agent commission but are wary of the heavy lifting that typically comes with a FSBO listing, there are a number of alternative options worth considering.

Sell with a discount real estate broker

Discount realtors provide real estate services for a reduced commission or flat fee. They're a good option if you want to avoid the risks of using a flat fee MLS service but still save money on realtor commission.

Discount real estate brokers are more expensive than flat fee MLS services, but you're more likely to sell for a better price because you’re working with an expert. Many discount realtors offer the same full service as traditional real estate agents, so you don’t need to worry about sacrificing quality for savings.

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Sell FSBO without an MLS listing

Technically, you don’t need an MLS listing to sell your house. You can simply advertise it for sale on a few websites. Some of these sites are exclusively for real estate listings, while others have a variety of items for sale.

Free FSBO listing websites include:

  • Craigslist
  • Facebook Marketplace
  • ForSaleByOwner.com
  • Zillow

However, selling FSBO without an MLS listing is rarely successful.

For one, your listing won’t be reposted to other sites like Realtor.com. The only people who see it will be those who visit the particular site you posted on. Also, buyer's agents heavily rely on the MLS to find homes for their clients. If your home isn’t on the MLS, not many buyers or buyer's agents will see it.

Many of the buyers who do visit FSBO websites are real estate investors. They usually want to buy homes for less than market value and flip them for a profit, so they probably won't offer a fair price.

Finally, even if you don't use the MLS, you still need to follow local real estate laws and FSBO paperwork requirements.

FAQ about flat fee MLS listing services

Is a flat fee MLS legal?

Flat fee MLS listings are legal, but some states have minimum service laws that require companies to provide more than an MLS listing. Some states require only a little extra support, while others require much more hands-on service. If you live in a minimum service state, flat fee companies may be a bit more expensive.

States and territories with minimum service mandates include AL, DC, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, MO, OR, TX, UT, WA, WV. Additionally, DE, FL, NV, NM, OH, PA, TN, and WI have minimum service legislation but give consumers the option to waive these requirements if they choose to work with a flat fee MLS service.

Do you need to use a flat fee MLS listing service to get your home on Zillow?

No. You can post your home for sale by owner (FSBO) on Zillow for free without working with a real estate agent or paying an MLS listing service to list your home for you.

Do flat fee MLS listings work?

Choosing a flat fee service ensures that your home is seen by the greatest number of interested buyers and is an effective way to save on commission costs. However, having your home seen by buyers is only part of the home selling process.

Unless you are willing to devote the substantial time and effort necessary to sell your home FSBO, you can expect mixed results using a flat fee MLS listing company.

Article Sources

[2] National Association of Realtors – "Home Buyers and Sellers Generational Trends Report". Pages 131. Updated 2023.

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