7 Best Flat Fee MLS Minnesota Listing Services

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By Shannon Whyte Updated October 28, 2023

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7 best flat fee MLS companies in Minnesota | What to consider before using a flat fee MLS service | Other ways to save on realtor commissions

When selling a house for sale by owner (FSBO) in Minnesota, posting on the multiple listing service (MLS) greatly increases the number of buyers who will see your listing. Agents use the MLS to find properties for their clients, and listings are automatically syndicated to real estate sites like Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com.

While a traditional listing agent charges 2.5–3% to sell a home, a flat fee MLS service will list your house on the local MLS for just a few hundred dollars.

However, you'll need to consider the trade-offs before paying for this type of service.

Who should use a flat fee MLS listing service?

A flat fee MLS listing can work particularly well if you have the time and experience to sell a house on your own. 

If you decide to sell FSBO, you have plenty of flat fee MLS listing services to choose from in Minnesota.

However, if you haven't sold FSBO before, keep the following in mind:

  • You'll essentially be your own agent. You'll handle pricing, showings, negotiations, paperwork, and qualifying buyers on your own. While some flat fee MLS companies offer limited broker assistance, it'll cost you a premium, and the level of service usually falls short of what a listing agent typically provides.
  • You'll probably still need to pay a buyer's agent fee, since most buyers use an agent and other sellers won't make them pay for their agent out of pocket.
  • The biggest potential downside of a flat fee MLS listing is that your home may sell for less than it would with an agent, despite all the time and effort you put in. Homes sold without a realtor sell for about 6% less on average, canceling any commission savings. That may explain why the majority of sellers who try the FSBO route end up listing with an agent.

If you want a less risky way to save money, you may want to consider hiring a reputable discount broker. You'll still save on real estate commissions, but you'll have a dedicated agent by your side.

» SAVE: Get a top local agent, pay half the commission

7 best flat fee MLS listing services in Minnesota

CompanyPrice rangeAvg. customer rating (1–5)Availability
beycome$99–5994.4 (500+ reviews)AL, CA, CT, FL, GA, IL, MN, NC, and SC
Real Estate Corners, Inc.$299–3,5005 (50+ reviews)Most of Minnesota
Home Avenue$399–3,4955 (85+ reviews)Minnesota
Savvy Avenue, LLC$295–4955 (5 reviews)Minnesota
Flat Fee Group — Greg Lawrence$399–3,495No reviews availableMinnesota
123 Flat Fee Minnesota$399–599No reviews availableNorth Star MLS in Minnesota
Minnesota Flat Fee MLS$99–149No reviews availableDuluth MLS, North Star MLS, SE Minnesota, St. Cloud MLS, and West Central Association
Show more

Why you should trust us

We spent dozens of hours researching flat fee MLS companies throughout the country. Our process included:

  • Researching more than 140 national, regional, and local flat fee MLS services to compare services, contract terms, and fees
  • Mystery shopping more than 20 flat fee MLS companies to understand the consumer experience
  • Interviewing sellers and realtors who have experience with flat fee MLS real estate transactions
  • Analyzing Google, Trustpilot, BBB, and Facebook reviews for each business
  • Visiting user forums like Reddit and Bigger Pockets for additional perspectives

Do you need an MLS listing?

If you decide to sell without a realtor, the only way you can get on the multiple listing service is with a flat fee MLS company. The MLS is where most real estate agents find properties for their clients, and posting on the MLS is how your listing gets on home-buying websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Redfin. If you're not on the MLS, buyers will have a much harder time finding your property.

What to consider before hiring a flat fee MLS service

Pros

  • You'll save on listing fees.
  • You'll have more control over the sale.
  • You can choose the services you need.

Cons

  • You'll pay a buyer's agent to negotiate against you.
  • You may miss out on leads.
  • You'll likely encounter extra fees.

You’ll save on listing fees

Savings are a driver for many people who use a flat fee MLS company. You can pay a few hundred dollars to get your house listed instead of paying an agent a commission. On a $350,000 home, the typical 3% seller's agent commission would be $10,500.

You'll still have to pay a buyer's agent to negotiate against you

A flat fee MLS listing helps you avoid paying a traditional listing agent's fee, but you'll still need to cover the buyer's agent commission. Almost all buyers work with an agent, and since buyers already have to pay cash for a down payment, agent commissions typically come from the seller's proceeds.

Unfortunately, buyer's agents often have the upper hand in FSBO sales, simply because they have more experience with these negotiations. The typical FSBO seller pays more in concessions and sells for about $120,000 less than the median sale price of homes sold through an agent.

You’ll have more control over the sale

In a typical real estate transaction, a listing agent acts as an intermediary between the seller and the buyer's agent. You're often in the dark about what's going on behind the scenes. Listing your home yourself means you know what's going on at every stage of the sale.

You may miss out on leads

Flat fee MLS listings don't always get as many leads as they should. Buyer's agents may caution their clients against pursuing these types of listings because they worry FSBO sellers will be hard to work with or need extra help from the buyer's agent, which could cause a conflict of interest. 

Additionally, MLS rules require a licensed agent to post a listing. So your contact information will only appear in the Agent Remarks section on the MLS — not directly on sites like Zillow and Redfin.

Most of the time, you'll depend on your flat fee broker to forward you inquiries and showing requests. If your flat fee MLS listing agent manages a lot of listings, they may not forward leads promptly, as this Houzeo customer found out.

You can choose the services you need

Most flat fee MLS companies have different packages so you can choose the level of support you need to sell your home.

If you're not in a hurry to sell, you may not need much more than an MLS listing and a way for buyers to get in touch.

If you're on a tighter timeline or don't have much experience with selling real estate, you can choose a plan that features broker assistance with pricing, paperwork, and negotiations. While these plans cost more, they're typically still cheaper than a traditional real estate agent commission.

You'll likely encounter extra fees

Flat fee MLS companies are somewhat notorious for hidden fees, such as an extra percentage of the sale price charged at closing. Companies may also advertise a budget MLS listing, but then charge a premium for basics like listing changes, lockboxes, additional photos, and the ability to receive buyer inquiries and showing requests directly.

💰 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!

7 best flat fee MLS listing services in Minnesota: Full breakdown

beycome: Best for tech-savvy sellers

Pros

  • You can upload photos, manage your listings, and receive and negotiate offers all on the online platform.
  • Customer service is available in English and Spanish seven days a week.

Cons

  • A comparative market analysis (CMA) is only available with the Concierge package.
  • Only the Concierge package provides assistance with paperwork.

Package Price What's included
Basic $99
  • MLS listing is active until you close
  • Maximum photos allowed by MLS
  • Unlimited listing changes
  • All leads directly forwarded to you
  • Access to legal forms and disclosures
  • Open house and showing scheduler
Enhanced $399 Basic package, plus:

  • Professional photos
  • Virtual tour YouTube video
  • Property listing on classified websites
  • Personalized yard sign
  • Customized flyers and brochures
  • Open house package
  • Social media digital ads
Concierge $599 + 1% at closing Enhanced package, plus:

  • Full negotiation and paperwork support
  • Home valuation service and pricing assistance
  • Full marketing support
  • Dedicated closing coordinator
  • Comparative market analysis
  • 3D virtual tour
Show more

beycome offers three packages, ranging from an affordable basic MLS listing package to a mostly full-service package. Online reviews are positive, with reviewers experiencing a high-quality, professional experience, quick responses, knowledgeable information, and no hidden fees.

beycome does offer a 90-day money-back guarantee. But if you close, are under contract, or receive at least two credible offers within 90 days, you won't get your money back.

The Basic package provides quality elements like unlimited photos and an active listing until you sell, which is a better deal than many comparable entry-level packages. The Basic package can work well for experienced sellers.

However, the Enhanced package doesn't add as much value for the price compared to equivalent packages from competitors. And while the Concierge service provides expert support, you could potentially get more service and value from a discount listing service like Clever.

Real Estate Corners, Inc.: Best for add-on services

Pros

  • The For Sale by Owner package lets you add up to 24 photos to your listing.
  • The Full Representation Service provides full-service support from a licensed realtor for a fixed fee.
  • You can customize the FSBO package by adding additional services.

Cons

  • The cost of the add-ons can quickly add up.

Real Estate Corners, Inc. fees and services

Package Price What's included
For Sale by Owner $299
  • 6-month MLS listing
  • 24 photos
  • Unlimited listing changes
  • Phone and email leads forwarded to you
  • Home showing electronic services
  • State disclosures
  • Full ad and listing on RealEstateCorners.com
  • Optional additional services for a fee
Full Representation Service $3,500 ($600 upfront + $2,900 at closing) For Sale by Owner package, plus:

  • Full support from a licensed realtor
  • Realtor helps with managing showings, scheduling, negotiations, document preparation, paperwork, closing, and more
  • In-home market analysis
  • Online marketing and email blast to local agents
  • 6-foot professional broker yard sign
  • Lockbox
Show more

Real Estate Corners, Inc. offers two plans: a flat fee MLS listing and a flat fee full-service realtor plan. Both plans offer good value for the price, but the For Sale by Owner plan can get pricey if you select all the optional add-on services. The Full Representation Service provides the same level of support as working with a traditional realtor but for a fixed price, which is a good value especially if you're selling a higher-priced home.

Online reviews are extremely positive, with reviewers reporting a smooth, stress-free experience, professional customer service, and fast responses to questions.

Real Estate Corners, Inc. is upfront about all costs and policies. Plus, you can cancel anytime with no cancellation fee. However, as stated on the website, you may be charged a 2.5–3% selling agent commission if your agent finds the buyer.

Home Avenue: Best for sellers wanting a full-service realtor for a flat fee

Pros

  • The listing process is fast, easy, and online.
  • The Full Service Realtor package provides full-service support from a licensed realtor for a fixed fee.
  • All packages include unlimited changes to your listing.

Cons

  • The Basic and Plus packages allow only 10 and 16 photos, respectively.
  • The For Sale by Owner plans are pricey for what you get compared to similar packages among competitors.

Home Avenue fees and services

Package Price What's included
Basic $399
  • 3-month MLS listing
  • 10 photos
  • Unlimited listing changes
  • Disclosure form
  • Optional additional services for a fee
Plus $698 Basic package, plus:

  • 6-month MLS listing
  • 16 photos
  • Social media links
  • Professional yard sign
  • Open house signs
  • Color brochures
  • Market eye subscription service
Showcase $998 Plus package, plus:

  • 12-month MLS listing
  • 24 photos
  • MLS listing supplement
  • Professional photoshoot
  • New listing email blast
  • Brochure box
  • Home showing appointment service
  • Earnest money escrow account
Full Service Realtor Complete $3,495 ($595 upfront + $2,900 at closing) Showcase package, plus:

  • List until sold
  • Realtor representation
  • MLS open house directory
  • Lockbox
  • Comparative market analysis
  • Purchase agreement and full realtor support
Show more

Home Avenue offers three for sale by owner packages and one full-service realtor package. The FSBO plans are pricey for what you receive, especially if you need to add on any additional services. Additionally, the Basic package isn't recommended, given the short timeline and limited number of photos for the price. However, the Full Service Realtor package offers services comparable to a traditional realtor at an affordable and competitive fixed rate.

Online reviews are positive, with reviewers reporting profession, high-quality customer service, quick sell time, and a smooth, easy process. Additionally, several reviewers were repeat customers.

Savvy Avenue, LLC: Best for experienced sellers

Pros

  • All packages include unlimited changes.
  • All packages include an open house on the MLS.
  • The online process is simple and easy.

Cons

  • The Basic package includes only six photos and a three-month listing.
  • The company doesn't offer any packages with agent support.

Savvy Avenue, LLC fees and services

Package Price What's included
Basic $295
  • 3-month MLS listing
  • 6 photos
  • Unlimited listing changes
  • Add an open house on the MLS
  • Buyer inquiries forwarded to you
Extended $395 Basic package, plus:

  • 6-month MLS listing
  • 24 photos
  • Virtual tour
  • Online showing service and feedback
  • Add captions to your photos
  • All required disclosure forms
Premium $495 Extended package, plus:

  • 12-month MLS listing
  • 50 photos
  • Easy social media tools
Show more

Savvy Avenue, LLC only offers flat fee MLS listing services, which may make their packages a better fit for more experienced sellers. The Extended plan provides good value for the price, such as ShowingTime appointments, captions, and a virtual tour.

If you think your property will be hard to sell, the Premium package may be a good option since it includes a 12-month listing and social media tools. However, the Basic package isn't recommended due to the short listing timeline and limited number of photos.

There are only a handful of online reviews available, but all were five stars. Reviewers reported quick, efficient, and knowledgeable customer service and an easy process.

You can cancel anytime with no cancellation fee. While there are no hidden fees, the website does state that the package prices don't include a buyer's agent commission.

Flat Fee Group — Greg Lawrence: Best for sellers wanting a variety of options

Pros

  • The online listing process is fast and easy.
  • You can add an optional purchase agreement review.
  • All packages come with an express listing guarantee. Your listing will be live within 48 business hours of submitting paperwork or you receive a credit.

Cons

  • The Basic package includes only six photos and a three-month listing.
  • A market analysis is only available for the full-service package.
  • There's little difference between the Basic and Plus packages, especially given the price difference.

Flat Fee Group — Greg Lawrence fees and services

Package Price What's included
Basic $399
  • 3-month MLS listing
  • 6 photos
  • Seller disclosure forms
Plus $698 Basic package, plus:

  • 6-month MLS listing
  • 18 photos
  • Yard sign
  • 3 directional signs
  • Brochure box
  • 25 color brochures
  • Home Avenue website listing
Showcase $998 Plus package, plus:

  • 12-month MLS listing
  • 24 photos
  • Personal property website
  • Professional photo shoot with virtual tour
  • Showing service and feedback
  • Email blast to metro realtors
  • MLS listing supplement
  • Craigslist posting every 5 days
  • Social media advertising
Realtor $3,495 ($595 upfront + $2,900 at closing) Showcase package, plus:

  • List until sold
  • 30 photos
  • In-home realtor meeting
  • Full representation
  • Just listed postcards
  • Market analysis
  • MLS open house listing
  • Lockbox
Show more

Flat Fee Group — Greg Lawrence offers three for sale by owner packages and one full-service realtor package. The FSBO plans are pricey for what you receive. You can add an optional Purchase Agreement Review, although the cost is unclear.

We don't recommend the Basic package, given the short timeline and limited number of photos for the price. However, the Realtor package offers services comparable to a traditional realtor at an affordable and competitive fixed rate.

There were no online reviews available. That said, Greg Lawrence also works with Home Avenue. BBB reviews for Greg Lawrence of Home Avenue were limited but mostly positive, with most reviewers reporting a good experience.

The cancellation policy was not available on the website.

123 Flat Fee Minnesota: Best for sellers wanting some agent support

Pros

  • Both plans offer the maximum allowed photos on the MLS and a 12-month listing term.
  • The online listing process is fast and easy.
  • Both plans provide a valuation report and appointment scheduling through ShowingTime.

Cons

  • There are no verifiable online reviews for the company.
  • At $399, its basic plan is pricier than others on this list.

123 Flat Fee Minnesota fees and services

Package Price What's included
Showcase $399
  • 12-month MLS listing
  • Max photos allowed by MLS
  • Home valuation report
  • ShowingTime
  • Schedule open houses online
  • Property flyer
Premium $599 Showcase plan, plus:

  • Limited real estate coaching
  • Review of recent area sales
  • Pricing assistance
  • Review of sales contracts
Show more

123 Flat Fee Minnesota offers two for sale by owner plans that offer good value for the price. The Premium plan balances the flexibility of FSBO with some assistance from a realtor, such as help with pricing and reviewing sales contracts. This plan may be a good option for sellers with less experience. Additionally, a full-service option is now available, but you need to contact the company for details and pricing.

While we didn't find reviews, the company has an A+ BBB rating, and the broker has been in business for over 30 years. Testimonials on the 123 Flat Fee Minnesota website indicate prompt, quality customer service and an easy process.

You can cancel anytime, but you won't get a refund once the listing forms have been emailed or delivered.

Minnesota Flat Fee MLS: Best for sellers on a tight budget

Pros

  • Both packages include a six-month listing term.
  • Packages are more affordable than competitors.
  • The online listing process is simple and easy.

Cons

  • You don't get agent support on either plan.
  • The Entry-level plan includes only six photos on the MLS and Realtor.com.

Minnesota Flat Fee MLS fees and services

Package Price What's included
Entry-level $99
  • 6-month MLS listing
  • 6 photos
  • Listing changes
  • Seller's contact info shown on MLS
  • State-required forms and disclosures
Upgraded $149 Basic plan, plus:

  • 6-month MLS listing
  • 25 photos
  • Realtor.com Premium
Show more

Minnesota Flat Fee MLS has the most affordable flat fee MLS listing plans among the companies reviewed. Both packages let you list your property online for six months, and the upgraded package allows for 25 photos. The service is efficient, with listings reportedly going live 28–48 hours after the company receives the paperwork.

No agent support is available for help with tasks like setting prices or reviewing paperwork. However, first-time or less experienced sellers may need more help than what's available.

We didn't find any online customer reviews or information about the cancellation policy.

Minnesota flat fee MLS listing services by city

In Minnesota, you'll also find some smaller flat fee MLS companies that serve particular cities. These companies are more likely to offer flexible service packages and local expertise than national companies.

Find Minnesota flat fee MLS listing services near you

How to list on the MLS by owner Minnesota

1. Educate yourself on the for sale by owner (FSBO) process

A flat fee MLS company gets your home listing on the MLS but doesn't provide the same hands-on experience of a licensed full-service agent.

To successfully sell your house FSBO, you'll need to familiarize yourself with the Minnesota laws and paperwork requirements. You'll also need to handle pricing, marketing, showings, open houses, offer and buyer financing reviews, negotiations with the buyer's agent, contract requirements like disclosures and title searches, and more.

You may also need to hire assistance, like a transaction coordinator or real estate attorney, to help with the paperwork and closing.

If the FSBO process isn't for you but you want to save on realtor fees, consider a low-cost alternative like a flat fee realtor or discount broker. Their commission rates are lower than a traditional realtor's (often 1–1.5% instead of 2.5–3%). And they provide the same full service and support as a traditional realtor.

2. Find the right flat fee MLS listing service for you

You'll want to take time to research multiple flat fee MLS companies before making a decision because services and packages can vary significantly.

Look for companies that have clear pricing, no hidden fees, offer services you need, and have positive online reviews. Depending on your comfort level with selling, you may also want to look for add-on services that provide some agent support with tasks like pricing, negotiation, or paperwork. However, monitor additional services carefully, as these fees can quickly add up.

When reading customer reviews on third-party sites, read both positive and negative reviews. And ideally, look for ones that are within the last year.

Lastly, watch out for hidden fees or restrictions in the fine print, so you understand what you're getting (and not getting) before signing a listing agreement.

3. Choose a service package

Most flat fee MLS companies offer different plans, from very basic MLS listing only to a concierge service with the support of a licensed agent. When comparing plans, consider what services and level of support you'll realistically need.

At a minimum, you'll want a plan that places your listing on local and national real estate websites, allows for a wide number of photos (24 or more ideally), has a 6–12 month listing term, and lets you make changes to your listing for free.

If you know you'll want some help, look for companies that provide additional services like comparative market analysis, pricing assistance, agent support, and paperwork review.

Top alternatives to a flat fee MLS listing service in Minnesota

Sell with a discount broker

The best discount realtors offer the same services as a traditional real estate agent, but at a much more competitive rate — as little as 1–1.5%.

Some discount brokers even offer flat rates, typically starting at about $5,000.

More discount realtors are becoming available, but not all offer the same level of service, savings, and value. That's why we recommend talking to realtors from a few brokerages before making a decision.

If you want to compare your options in Minnesota, Clever Real Estate may be a good place to start.

When you request an agent through Clever, you'll receive multiple agent matches from top local brokerages, like RE/MAX and Keller Williams. You can compare agents and choose the best one for you.

Clever's agent network includes 19,000 top-performing realtors across the country — who all offer discounted rates through Clever's network. When you sell your home, you'll pay a listing fee of just 1.5% (about half the typical rate).

👋 Get a better agent AND bigger savings

Why pay more in commission fees for less service? Clever offers you bigger savings without sacrificing the service you expect from a traditional realtor.

With Clever:

 ✅ You'll only pay 1.5% to list your home

 ✅ You'll work with a full-service realtor from a top broker

 ✅ It's free, with zero obligation — you can walk away at any time

Saving on realtor fees doesn't have to mean sacrificing service. Find a top local agent today!

Try selling for sale by owner without an MLS listing

It's technically possible to sell your house without listing it on the MLS. But this method isn't likely to work unless you already have a buyer lined up.

Without an MLS listing, fewer buyers will know your house is for sale. The MLS is the main way real estate agents find properties for their clients. It also guarantees that your listing gets on popular home-buying websites, including Zillow.

If you forgo an MLS listing, you'll have to rely on less effective sites like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist. Or you can hope that a buyer sees the for sale sign in your yard.

» LEARN: FSBO vs. Realtor Facts and Statistics

FAQ about flat fee MLS listings in Minnesota

How much do flat fee MLS services cost in Minnesota?

Typically, you should expect to pay about $300 for a Minnesota flat fee MLS listing. However, we've seen basic plans for as low as $100 and more comprehensive services that charge as much as $600.

Do I still need to pay the buyer's agent commission?

We strongly recommend offering a commission to the buyer's agent. This will incentivize agents to bring their clients to your home. How much to offer a buyer's agent is up to you, but the average buyer's agent commission in Minnesota is 2.68%.

How do I sell by owner in Minnesota?

To sell by owner in Minnesota, you need to learn the real estate laws and paperwork requirements in Minnesota. You also want to use a flat fee MLS company to get the online exposure of the multiple listing service. Learn more about how to sell a house for sale by owner in Minnesota.

How do I get MLS access in Minnesota?

To get MLS access in Minnesota, you need to either hire a realtor or use a flat fee MLS company. Only an agent or company operating in Minnesota with a real estate license can add and access listings on the Minnesota MLS listing service. A flat fee MLS service can mean huge savings for experienced sellers.

What is the best flat fee MLS listing service in Minnesota?

beycome is one of the best flat fee MLS listing services in Minnesota because it offers an affordable entry-level listing package, has an easy-to-use online platform, and has quality customer service. Real Estate Corners, Inc., Home Avenue, Savvy Avenue, LLC, and 123 Flat Fee Minnesota are also good options for Minnesota home sellers.

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