Best flat fee MLS listing services in Texas | 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 Texas, 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 in Texas to choose from.
If you haven't sold FSBO before, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- You'll essentially be your own agent. You'll handle the pricing, showings, paperwork, buyer financing reviews, and negotiations on your own. While some flat fee MLS companies offer broker assistance, it'll cost you a premium, and the level of service usually falls short of what a typical listing agent provides.
- You'll probably still need to pay a buyer's agent fee, since most buyers use an agent.
- 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 thousands, but you'll have a dedicated local realtor by your side.
» SAVE: Get a top local agent, pay half the commission
7 best flat fee MLS listing services in Texas
| Company | Price range | Avg. customer rating (1–5) | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unreal Estate | $99–599 | 4.5 (115 reviews) | All of Texas |
| ISoldMyHouse.com | $299–399 | 4.7 (60 reviews) | All of Texas |
| Flat Fee Group | $299–1,289 | 4.9 (95+ reviews) | Most of Texas |
| Congress Realty | $299–499 | 4.7 (110 reviews) | Most of Texas |
| Creekview Realty | $600–1,400 | 4.7 (170+ reviews) | Most of Texas |
| TexasMLSBroker.com | $275–475 | 2.5 (8 reviews) | Austin, Dallas–Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio, and surrounding areas |
| Houzeo | $329 to $379 + 0.5% at closing | 4.9 (1,800+ reviews) | All of Texas |
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 find the most up-to-date information on 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 still 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
Realtor commissions typically cost thousands of dollars, but most basic flat fee MLS listing packages in Texas only cost $100–600. By comparison, the standard 3% listing agent commission on a $350,000 house sale costs $10,500.
You'll still have to pay a buyer's agent to negotiate against you
Ninety percent of buyers work with an agent, so you’ll likely need to pay buyer's agent fees. Some flat fee MLS services actually require you to offer a buyer's agent commission of at least 2%.
Because buyer's agents have more experience with real estate transactions, they often have the upper hand in negotiations. FSBO sellers tend to pay more concessions while averaging $120,000 less than the median sale price of homes sold through an agent.
You’ll have more control over the sale
Many FSBO sellers enjoy having more control over how their house is priced, marketed, and presented to buyers. Without a realtor, you’ll be directly involved in the marketing, showings, and negotiations, which some home sellers find more personal than communicating through a listing agent.
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 listings because they worry FSBO sellers will be hard to work with or need extra help on their end, which could create 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 broker manages a lot of listings, they may not forward leads, 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 worried about selling quickly, you may not need more than an MLS listing and a way for buyer's agents to contact you. If you're less experienced with 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 charging hidden fees on top of the flat fee you pay upfront. Some charge a low fee upfront but then collect an extra percentage at closing. Others retain part of the buyer's agent commission (which you pay) for themselves.
Some companies' fees aren't necessarily hidden but can quickly add up. These may include charges for listing edits, price changes, lockboxes, and additional photos. For example, one Houzeo customer found out that they'd have to pay an extra $140 to actually receive showing requests from buyers and agents.
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 Texas: Full breakdown
Unreal Estate: Best value on premium plans
Pros
- You get low, exclusive rates with code "Clever."
- Online reviews for Unreal Estate are largely positive.
- There's a wide range of plans to suit all experience levels.
Cons
- The two lower-tier plans have limited photo allowances.
- Unlimited listing edits are only included in the premium plan.
- Customer support is exclusively online for the two lower-tier plans.
Unreal Estate fees and services
| Package | Price | What's included |
|---|---|---|
| Starter | 0.5% at closing |
|
| Basic | $99 upfront + 0.5% at closing (or just $99 through Clever) | Starter package, plus:
|
| Deluxe | $139 upfront + 0.5% at closing (or just $250 through Clever) | Basic package, plus:
|
| Premium | $249 upfront + 0.5% at closing (or just $450 through Clever) | Deluxe package, plus:
|
Unreal Estate operates in most of the country and has a variety of plans at competitive rates. Its Starter plan will get you on the MLS, and you'll only have to pay 0.5% when your house actually sells. While this plan is unique and may appeal to some, it has an extremely low five-photo limit.
The next level plan, Basic, is a bit better and costs $99 plus 0.5% at closing. The price is good, but the photo limit is still low at 15, and you'll 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, if you use code Clever, Unreal Estate will drop the 0.5% charge on its Basic, Deluxe, and Premium plans. So you'll pay a flat rate of $99, $250, or $450.
ISoldMyHouse.com: Best for experienced sellers
Pros
- The process is 100% online.
- The company has an online resource guide for selling FSBO.
- Both plans allow you to schedule open houses.
Cons
- The cost of upgrades can quickly add up.
- The entry-level package only allows up to 10 photos, which can limit the potential buyers see.
- The packages are more expensive than other flat fee MLS options in Texas.
ISoldMyHouse.com fees and services
| Package | Price | What’s included |
|---|---|---|
| Get Listed! | $299 |
|
| Get Sold! | $399 | Get Listed! plan, plus:
|
ISoldMyHouse.com offers two affordable, basic MLS listing plans that may work well for experienced sellers. While it has an online resource guide to help FSBO sellers, first-time sellers may need more expert support than these services provide.
Add-on services are available, like a lockbox, custom printed yard sign, or featured listing, but these upgrades can quickly add up.
Online reviews are positive, with reviewers experiencing prompt and professional customer service, an easy listing process, and traffic to their listing.
You can make changes to your listing using the Get Support page. Additionally, you can get a refund (minus a $10 credit card processing fee) if the request is placed before the listing is entered on the MLS. Some other exclusions may apply.
Flat Fee Group: Best for sellers wanting realtor support
Pros
- All plans include the maximum number of photos allowed by the MLS.
- The ShowingTime app is included in all plans, making appointment scheduling easier.
- Sellers who choose a full-service plan work with a licensed, local broker.
Cons
- The $299 Full Service plan includes $1,999 due at closing.
- There are few differences between the three full-service plans.
Flat Fee Group fees and services
| Package | Price | What’s included |
|---|---|---|
| MLS Only | $399 |
|
| Full Service Realtor | $999 | MLS Only plan, plus:
|
| Full Service + Pro Photos | $1,289 | Full Service Realtor plan, plus:
|
Flat Fee Group is a nationwide company that provides local independent real estate brokers, so no middleman is involved. The two Full Service plans include direct agent involvement.
Online reviews are positive. Reviewers had a high-quality experience with professional and responsive customer service. Many people are repeat customers.
You can cancel and relist with another agent, but it isn’t clear if there are any associated fees.
Congress Realty: Best for sellers willing to pay for quality customer service
Pros
- ShowingTime and DocuSign are included in all plans.
- Unique add-ons include electronic lockboxes and social media marketing.
- Higher-level plans include automatic call forwarding, so buyer leads go straight to your phone.
Cons
- Basic plans allow only limited photos and listing changes and don't include automated phone lead forwarding.
- Plans start at $299, making this one of the pricier options for an entry-level listing.
- Sales comps and agent support are only available on the Full Service plan.
Congress Realty fees and services
| Package | Price | What’s included |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $299 |
|
| Plus | $399 | Basic plan, plus:
|
| Premium | $499 | Plus plan, plus:
|
| Full Service | $399 + 0.5% at closing | Premium plan, plus:
|
Congress Realty offers four plans and several add-ons, although those extras can add up quickly. The company is licensed in the states where it operates, so customers work with local brokers. The Full Service plan is the only package that includes agent support.
The Basic and Plus plans are limited and include some restrictions (like the number of photos allowed or the number of changes to the listing) that some competitors don't have.
One add-on is Professional Document Services for $500. But you may be able to find a competitor plan that includes that service and more for the same or less.
Online reviews are positive. Reviewers experienced high-quality and professional customer service and prompt, knowledgeable responses.
A cancellation policy isn’t on the website, but the company claims that it's committed to resolving any issues with your listing — and reviews seem to support this claim.
Creekview Realty: Best for inexperienced sellers
Pros
- The company is highly rated by customers.
- Plans include an electronic lockbox (with a deposit), plus professional photography and a comparative market analysis (for a fee).
- The four-step online process is easy and straightforward.
Cons
- Its basic listing plan is twice as expensive as others on the list.
- Optional upgrades can add up quickly, especially if you select Plan B.
Creekview Realty fees and services
| Package | Price | What’s included |
|---|---|---|
| Plan A | $600 |
|
| Plan B | $1,400 | Plan A, plus:
|
Creekview Realty offers two plans: one MLS listing only and one full service. The website provides only limited details about the services included in Plan A, which is expensive compared to other MLS listing-only services. If interested, we encourage you to talk with customer service before signing a listing agreement to make sure the service fits your needs.
Plan B offers full agent support, such as handling contracts, negotiations, and documentation, which may be helpful for inexperienced sellers who want agent support at a flat fee rate.
Online reviews are positive, with reviewers claiming high-quality, professional customer service and an easy process.
According to the website, you can cancel anytime, but it's unclear if there's a cancellation fee.
Texas MLS Broker: Best for sellers wanting to sell a lease
Pros
- All plans work for properties that are for sale or lease.
- All packages include a comparative market analysis (CMA).
Cons
- Broker advice on higher-tier plans is only through email.
- Expedited service for same-day listing is extra ($250).
- The entry-level plan only provides a three-month listing term.
Texas MLS Broker fees and services
| Package | Price | What’s included |
|---|---|---|
| Standard MLS | $275 |
|
| Premium MLS | $375 | Standard MLS plan, plus:
|
| Showcase | $475 | Premium MLS plan, plus:
|
Texas MLS Broker is affordable but may be best for experienced sellers. While the higher-tier plans include contract review and some agent support, the advice is by email only, which may not work for some customers who want to discuss the information. All packages include a comparative market analysis, which can help with pricing.
Online reviews are limited and varied. For instance, one-star reviews report slow customer service and errors in the listing that took several days to correct. Five-star reviews report an easy process and quick sales.
We recommend talking with the broker before signing a listing agreement to make sure the service is a good fit for you.
Unless your listing is under contract, you can cancel anytime.
Houzeo: Best for sellers wanting a national brand
Pros
- The process is 100% online, which is convenient for many sellers.
- You can complete and submit paperwork using the Houzeo mobile app (except with the Bronze package).
- Unlimited listing changes and open houses are available on most plans (except with the Bronze package).
Cons
- Its entry-level package charges $25 per listing change.
- The call forwarding service isn’t available on lower-priced plans.
Houzeo fees and services
| Package | Price | What’s included |
|---|---|---|
| Bronze | $329 |
|
| Silver | $399 | Bronze plan, plus:
|
| Gold | $379 + 0.5% at closing | Silver plan, plus:
|
| Platinum | $349 + 1% at closing | Gold plan, plus:
|
Houzeo is a national, proven brand, which may appeal to some sellers. Houzeo’s online platform is streamlined and easy to use, and most plans include a convenient mobile app. Broker support is all completed virtually, and higher-tier plans include a percentage (0.5% or 1%) due at closing in addition to the flat fee.
Online reviews are largely positive, indicating quality, professional customer service. Some negative reviews report unexpected fees and difficulties when canceling a listing.
You can cancel your MLS listing anytime as long as it’s not under contract. A $25 termination fee may apply.
Texas flat fee MLS listing services by city
In Texas, you'll also find some smaller flat fee MLS companies that operate in certain cities. These local companies are more likely to offer flexible service packages and have more area expertise than the national brands.
Find Texas flat fee MLS listing services near you
How to list on the MLS by owner in Texas
1. Educate yourself on the for sale by owner (FSBO) process
If you decide to use a flat fee MLS company, you’re essentially selling your property yourself. You take on the tasks of a licensed real estate agent, including understanding Texas laws and paperwork requirements.
Learning how to sell your house for sale by owner can help you determine what type of flat fee MLS service you need — basic, limited support, or almost full support.
You may need to hire assistance, like a transaction coordinator or real estate attorney, to help with the paperwork and closing.
2. Find the right flat fee MLS listing service for you
Not all flat fee MLS companies offer the same value or level of service. Shop around to find out:
- What's included in the service packages. Some companies offer only barebones listings, while others offer agent support for things like negotiations and contract reviews.
- How highly customers rate the company. Bad reviews, no reviews, or a lack of recent reviews can all be red flags.
- Whether the company operates locally or nationwide. Nationwide companies might offer more add-ons, but local companies tend to give you more direct access to the listing broker.
Talk with customer support or the broker to make sure the company is a good fit. Ask about the cancellation policy and any additional fees due at closing.
3. Choose a service package
You have lots of options when it comes to service plans, from only a basic MLS listing to full agent support.
At a minimum, you’ll want a plan that includes:
- A 6–12 month listing term
- Enough photos to showcase your home (ideally 24 or more)
- Free listing changes
- Efficient lead forwarding
If you have special circumstances, such as a property that might be hard to sell, you may need a plan that lists your home until sold.
If you want extra support, look for packages with pricing assistance, consultations on offers and negotiations, and paperwork review.
Top alternatives to a flat fee MLS listing service in Texas
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 Texas, 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).
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
Technically, it’s possible to sell your house without listing it on the MLS. But this method usually only works if you already have a buyer lined up.
Without a Texas 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 Texas
How much do flat fee MLS services cost in Texas?
Typically, a flat fee MLS listing in Texas costs about $275–499. However, basic plans can be as low as $45, and more comprehensive services can be as much as $1,400.
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 average real estate commission in Texas typically ranges from 2.40% to 3.35%.
What is the best flat fee MLS listing service in Texas?
For experienced sellers, Congress Realty is our top choice of the flat fee MLS listing services in Texas. For less-experienced sellers, Flat Fee Group provides affordable plans with some realtor support. Other good Texas MLS flat fee brokers include Creekview Realty and ISoldMyHouse.com. Find the best flat fee MLS Texas companies near you!
How do I get access to the MLS in Texas?
You can get your home listed on the local Texas MLS by either working with a listing agent or using a flat fee MLS listing service. Only licensed real estate agents and companies can access the MLS. Learn about how Texas flat fee MLS companies work.
