Selling your home FSBO? Posting it on an FSBO website can boost its visibility and chances of a successful sale.
However, choosing the right FSBO site can be confusing. Free platforms like Zillow and Craigslist offer good visibility but don't list your property on the MLS. Paid FSBO websites can be costly (up to $1,000 upfront), but they ensure your listing gets maximum exposure – and essentially pay for themselves when you sell.
Using a paid FSBO website is likely your best choice. Here's why:
- All the paid FSBO sites we've vetted and listed below will post your home on the MLS.
- Statistics show that about 86% of all sellers use the MLS.[1]
- Homes listed on the MLS sell for close to 18% more than comparable off-MLS homes, potentially earning $70,000 more on a $400,000 sale.[2]
Here’s a ranked list of the best FSBO websites, separated into paid and free categories. We’ve also included free educational resources specifically for FSBO sellers.
Maximize your exposure with Clever Real Estate
Consider partnering with a full-service agent offering MLS access through platforms like Clever Real Estate. Clever ensures your property is effectively marketed to both buyers and agents, increasing the likelihood of a successful sale.
With Clever, you can connect with top local agents who offer full-service support at special low rates – just 1.5% listing fees instead of the standard 3%. Save 50% on listing fees without sacrificing service quality. Ready to get started? Learn more and try Clever here!
Best FSBO websites of 2024
Listing Fee
Customer Rating
Editor's Take
Overview
Locations
Unreal Estate has a variety of plans at competitive rates. Its Starter plan gets you on the MLS; 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. We think the Deluxe and Premium plans offer the best overall value, since they both have high photo limits.
Note: 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
- Only pay for MLS listing if you sell
- User-friendly online platform
- Discount through using Clever referral code
Cons
- Limited photos allowed
- Less personalized support
Listing Fee
Customer Rating
Editor's Take
Overview
Locations
ISoldMyHouse.com offers homeowners a budget-friendly solution to sell their properties through its flat fee MLS listing service. It has various service levels tailored to sellers' needs, including connections to full-service agents at discounted rates.
Known for its user-friendly platform, the company garners positive reviews for ease of use, commission cost savings, and responsive customer support. However, it may lack the in-person agent support and comprehensive services found with some competitors.
Pros
- Affordable listing options
- Mostly positive customer reviews
- Responsive customer service
Cons
- Basic package lacks comprehensive services
- Primarily online customer service interactions
Listing Fee
Customer Rating
Editor's Take
Overview
Locations
Beycome, based in South Miami since 2020, offers budget-friendly MLS listing packages for sellers. Known for its easy-to-use platform and innovative services, from basic listings to concierge support, it focuses on saving costs and giving control to homeowners.
Customers appreciate its straightforward approach and the savings they achieve, but note the lack of in-person support.
Ideal for tech-savvy users, Beycome may fall short for those seeking full-service real estate guidance. While it offers unique benefits like cashback for buyers, it is recommended that you compare it with other services for a complete picture.
Pros
- Affordable service packages
- User-friendly platform
- Cashback incentives for buyers
Cons
- Limited in-person support
- Not ideal for extensive guidance
Listing Fee
Customer Rating
Editor's Take
Overview
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
- Highly affordable
- User autonomy in the sales process
- Positive customer feedback
Cons
- Limited support
- Extra fees for additional services
- Availability limited to 22 states
Listing Fee
Customer Rating
Editor's Take
Overview
Locations
Houzeo stands out in the flat fee MLS listing service market for its user-friendly flat fee MLS listing services, offering various packages for sellers across the country. Its tools for scheduling showings and reviewing offers streamline the process for those selling their own homes.
With positive feedback on platforms like Google and Trustpilot, customers often commend Houzeo for its efficiency. The service's range of plans, from the cost-effective Gold plan to the more inclusive Platinum plan, ensures there's a suitable option for every seller's needs.
Pros
- Nationwide coverage
- Enhanced visibility
- Very easy to use
Cons
- Limited marketing services
- Potential for higher costs
- Quality of agents can vary
How we choose our top picks
We ranked these FSBO sites based on key factors like ease of use, cost, service offerings, and customer feedback.
- Unreal Estate and ISoldMyHouse top the list for their user-friendly platforms and affordable listing processes, making them ideal for sellers looking for simplicity and value.
- Beycome and Homecoin follow with strong cost-saving options and additional marketing tools, though they offer less personalized support.
Our rankings also reflect a balance between cost-effectiveness and service quality. Unreal Estate and ISoldMyHouse.com are favored for their ease of use and affordability, while Beycome and Homecoin provide budget-friendly options with some trade-offs in support.
Are paid FSBO sites really worth it?
Investing in a paid FSBO site can be worthwhile, especially if it grants you access to the MLS, where most buyers discover homes.
The MLS is accessible only to licensed real estate agents and brokers and safeguards sensitive information like seller and buyer details, security codes, and showing schedules.[3] Its exclusivity is maintained partly due to the financial contributions from real estate professionals, ensuring its reliability and security.
However, as a FSBO seller, you can gain access to the MLS without a realtor. A flat fee MLS website increases your property's exposure by syndicating the listing to major platforms like Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com. This broader visibility can lead to more online views and showings, and, ultimately, a higher selling price.
This wider reach might explain why FSBO homes had a median sale price of $310,000 last year, significantly lower than the $405,000 median for agent-assisted homes, most of which were listed on the MLS.[4]
However, if a FSBO site showcases your listing only on its own platform and not on the MLS, the investment may not be justified.
For more help, discover how to identify the best flat fee MLS service for your FSBO sale.
Best free FSBO sites
👉 Jump to: Zillow | ForSaleByOwner.com | Facebook Marketplace | Craigslist
1. Zillow
| 📣 Our take: Zillow isn't as great for FSBO sellers as it once was, but as the biggest real estate listings site, it's still the go-to place for selling without a real estate agent. |
Zillow and its sister site, Trulia, are two of the most popular real estate websites. You can list your house on Zillow for free, and it will also automatically appear on Trulia. Zillow is the largest home website, with 231 million monthly unique users, while Trulia pulls in around 10 million monthly visitors.[5]
While Zillow isn't exclusively for FSBO listings, it provides user-friendly features for sellers to post their properties independently. The platform's design is intuitive and visually appealing, making it easy to manage your listing from any device.
To post your FSBO listing on Zillow and Trulia, simply create a Zillow account and upload your property's photos and details, like the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and special amenities.
» Zillow Listing Fees: Free and Premium Options Explained
The downsides of listing FSBO on Zillow
In search results, Zillow displays agent listings by default and places FSBO listings under a "By owner & other" category. This separation makes FSBO listings harder for buyers to find.
Zillow also doesn't post your listing to the multiple listing service (MLS). The MLS is widely recognized as the primary platform for home sales, so if your property isn't listed on the MLS, many buyer's agents won't see it.
Hiring a real estate agent can also get your home on the MLS. Although agents charge listing fees, their expertise can often help you secure a much higher sale price. And you can still save by finding an agent through a low-commission real estate company like Clever.
2. ForSaleByOwner.com
| 📣 Our take: ForSaleByOwner.com boasts a significant audience interested in FSBO homes, but without an MLS listing option and limited add-ons, its service has its limitations. |
ForSaleByOwner.com is a well-known FSBO platform, claiming to attract seven times more traffic than its competitors. However, online data suggests that the website receives around 700,000 monthly visitors – notably less than the 200+ million monthly visitors Zillow garners.[6]
The platform allows free listings for residential properties, including single-family homes, condos, and townhouses. It also provides useful tools such as a home pricing calculator and access to legal forms.
However, like other free alternatives, listings on ForSaleByOwner.com don't appear on the local MLS nor get syndicated to prominent real estate websites like Zillow, Trulia, and Redfin. Consequently, your property is only visible to buyers who visit ForSaleByOwner.com, which doesn't receive as much traffic as leading FSBO platforms.
3. Facebook Marketplace
| 📣 Our take: Facebook Marketplace offers an easy-to-use platform for selling various items, including real estate. While it lacks specialized tools for FSBO sellers, it provides a free and widely accessible space to showcase your property. |
Facebook Marketplace is a DIY platform that doesn't offer photography, marketing, or closing assistance, which is typical of most FSBO websites. And you'll need to adjust your privacy settings before listing your property to maintain personal privacy while allowing potential buyers to view your listing.
Also, remember that your buyer pool is limited to Facebook users, and reaching the broadest audience may require listing your home on the MLS, or at least on other free FSBO websites.
Nevertheless, posting on Facebook can be worthwhile for connecting with local buyers and marketing your open houses.
4. Craigslist
| 📣 Our take: Craigslist offers a straightforward FSBO listing service, although it's known for attracting scammers. Despite its diminishing influence, it still boasts a sizable audience of potential buyers. |
Craigslist isn’t as influential as it once was, but it remains one of the most visited FSBO listing sites, pulling in around 170 million page views per month.[7]
It’s free to use and can provide decent exposure for your home, particularly in areas where Craigslist is still widely used.
However, true to Craigslist's reputation, its features are very basic. You can upload photos and create a property description, but advanced tools are lacking.
It's also important to exercise caution on Craigslist due to its reputation for attracting scammers. Stay vigilant and skeptical, particularly when encountering overly enticing offers or suspicious users.
Nevertheless, given its free nature and potential to reach local buyers, posting on Craigslist could be worthwhile for sellers on a budget.
» How to list your house for sale by owner on Craigslist
The bottom line: Are free FSBO sites worth it?
Posting on these sites won't grant you MLS access, which is crucial for selling quickly and at your desired price. However, they can still increase your listing's visibility (at zero cost).
For example, sharing your property on Facebook Marketplace and in local for-sale groups can significantly boost your presence in the community. Plus, advertising your upcoming open houses on this platform is usually smart.
Although Craigslist FSBO listings lack the visibility and reach of specialized real estate websites and are susceptible to scams, they're free to post and could attract some local buyers.
As for Zillow, it's worth considering if you haven't hired a flat fee MLS company, given its status as one of the biggest real estate websites. But, it's essential to note that FSBO listings can be more challenging for buyers to discover on the site.
Best educational FSBO sites
👉 Jump to: Clever | Realty Times | FSBO Documents
Before committing to selling your home by owner, take the time to research and ensure it aligns with your goals and circumstances.
While the following websites don't directly help with FSBO listings, they offer valuable resources and advice to help you determine if FSBO is the right choice. If you opt for FSBO, these platforms can also provide valuable insights to help you achieve a successful sale.
Clever Real Estate
Clever stands out as a comprehensive resource for FSBO information. You can access detailed guides, from listing your home FSBO to essential paperwork. Key resources include:
If you're considering alternatives to FSBO, Clever provides insights into low-commission real estate companies and tips on negotiating realtor commission. And if you want the best sale price without full commission fees, Clever connects you with top local agents at discounted rates.
» Ready to take the next step? Learn how Clever can help you save on listing fees and get started today
State-by-state guides: Selling without a realtor
Clever also offers state-specific guides for selling without a realtor, covering states like California, Massachusetts, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Texas. Check out the table above and click on your state to view more localized information for selling FSBO.
Connect with top local agents who can help you sell on time and for top dollar. You'll pay just a 1.5% listing fee (half the typical rate), helping you save thousands!
Realty Times
Realty Times is a popular real estate news and advice site featuring FSBO articles written by industry professionals.
These articles cover topics like buying FSBO properties, preparing your home for sale, and deciding if FSBO is the right path for you. However, there isn't a dedicated FSBO section, so you might have to search for relevant articles.
FSBO Documents
Dealing with paperwork is one of the biggest challenges of selling your home yourself. FSBO Documents provides an explanation of the legal documents you’ll need if you’re selling or buying a FSBO property.
The site is run by Standard Legal, a self-help legal forms software company, and you can purchase its FSBO legal forms online, including templates for purchase agreements, disclosure forms, and deeds.
» MORE: What paperwork do you need to sell FSBO?
Best specialty FSBO sites
Unique properties — like commercial real estate, vacant lots, and farms — don’t often fit on traditional FSBO websites. Fortunately, there are a handful of options tailored for specialty properties.
LoopNet
| 📣 Our take: If you're selling a commercial property, LoopNet's massive reach makes it the obvious option — but that exposure comes at a premium. |
LoopNet is the leading platform for commercial property FSBO sales across the US. It's the largest commercial real estate site, attracting significant traffic from potential buyers.
The platform is user-friendly and offers digital tools to track listing performance, such as views and clicks. These tools enable you to optimize your listing for better results.
However, pricing for these services can be steep, with some marketing packages costing thousands per month.
» MORE: How to save on commercial real estate commission rates
LandFlip
| 📣 Our take: If you have a unique property to sell for sale by owner — such as farmland, a vacant lot, or even a ranch — LandFlip is affordable and attracts the sort of niche buyers you need. |
LandFlip is an ideal choice for selling unique properties like farms, vacant lots, and ranches because it offers affordable plans tailored to niche markets.
LandFlip has a network of specialized real estate websites, each catering to specific property types:
- FarmFlip for farms
- RanchFlip for ranches
- LotFlip for vacant lots
- AuctionFlip for real estate auctions
- CommercialFlip for commercial properties
Your property will be listed on the most relevant site within the LandFlip family, ensuring it reaches the right audience.
LandFlip costs $70–300 per month, with plans varying by search exposure, photo limit, and customer support.
» MORE: 5 things to know about real estate commission on land sales
Methodology for choosing the best FSBO websites
Our selection process for the best FSBO websites in 2024 was comprehensive and data-driven. We understand that selling a home is a huge decision and that choosing the right platform to list your property can greatly impact your sale's success.
Here's how we evaluated and chose the top FSBO websites:
- Pricing structure. We thoroughly examined the cost of listing on each website, considering free and paid options. We aimed to identify platforms offering value for money, ensuring sellers receive optimal services relative to their fees.
- MLS access. A crucial factor was whether the FSBO website provides access to the MLS. It is vital for reaching a broader audience as it increases the property's visibility to potential buyers and their agents.
- Service and support. We assessed the level of service and support each website offers sellers. This included evaluating customer service availability, the ease of platform use, and additional services such as professional photography, legal document templates, and marketing tools.
- User experience. Our evaluation prioritized platforms that offer a seamless, user-friendly experience for listing and managing properties. We considered factors such as ease of listing, management tools, and overall website interface.
- Visibility and reach. We analyzed the traffic and reach of each FSBO website. Higher platform visibility leads to more potential buyers, increasing the chances of a successful sale.
- Additional features. We looked for websites that offer extra features like home pricing calculators, access to legal forms, and syndication to other real estate websites. These features can enhance the selling experience and provide valuable resources to FSBO sellers.
- Customer reviews. We considered real user experiences and reviews to gauge the effectiveness and reliability of each FSBO website.
- Market trends and research. We considered current real estate market trends and research to understand the effectiveness of FSBO sales and how different platforms cater to these trends.
By carefully evaluating these criteria, we identified the top FSBO websites that offer sellers the best chance of a successful sale in today's real estate market.
FAQ
What should I look for in a FSBO website?
If you're selling your home for sale by owner and trying to decide where to post your for sale by owner listing, here are some factors to consider:
- How much it costs to list your property on the site
- What types of properties can be listed
- The website's features, like unlimited photos and video support
- Whether your listing will be automatically syndicated on other FSBO websites
Where can I list my house for sale by owner?
Sites like Zillow and ForSaleByOwner.com let you list your house yourself for free. Other companies, like Beycome and Homecoin, charge a fee. But in exchange, you’ll get more service and potentially reach more potential buyers. Find the best websites where you can list your house for sale by owner.
Where can I find for sale by owner listings?
You can find FSBO listings on general home-buying websites like Zillow and Trulia or FSBO-specific websites like Fizber and ForSaleByOwner.com. Check out our list of the best FSBO websites to learn more.
Is Forsalebyowner.com legitimate?
Forsalebyowner.com is a legitimate website. Established in 1999, it has become one of the largest sites to facilitate FSBO sales. You can use the website to advertise your listing for a flat fee. Exercise caution, though. The company has limited involvement in the transaction, and scams do happen on the platform.
How can I advertise my FSBO listing?
You can advertise your FSBO listing online to reach a broad audience. For a flat fee, some FSBO websites will syndicate your listing to the local multiple listing service (MLS). Lower-tech options include "for sale" signs, fliers, and radio and newspaper ads.
