How to Sell Your FSBO Home with a Flat Fee MLS listing company

DIY Home sellers in the U.S. can list their FSBO property in the MLS with the help of flat fee MLS listing companies.
If you’re considering selling your home without the help of a real estate agent, you may want to use a flat fee MLS service to reach potential buyers. A flat fee MLS company helps “for sale by owner” (FSBO) sellers to list their homes in the local multiple listing service (MLS) without the assistance of a Realtor®.
In this article, we explain the pros and cons of using a flat fee MLS service, how they work, and what you might pay. We’ll also give you an overview of some flat fee MLS listing services that are available throughout the U.S. To help you decide whether a listing service is the right choice for you, we spoke with real estate agent Brett Keyser, who sells homes more than 59% faster than the average agent in Sarasota, Florida.
“The number one reason people go with flat fee MLS service is that they’re looking to save money,” says Keyser.
What is a flat fee MLS listing service?
A flat fee MLS is a limited service that helps sellers get their FSBO homes on the local multiple listing service (MLS). The MLS is a private directory of for-sale homes that real estate professionals use to share home details with each other.
Because the local MLS is one of the best ways to market your home to potential buyers and get maximum exposure, it’s vital to list your home on the local MLS.
Although typically only licensed real estate agents can access and post listings on a local MLS, there are a number of different services that provide MLS services for a flat fee. These flat fee MLS companies enable FSBO sellers to bypass the traditional agent and get their home included on the MLS.
How much does a flat fee MLS service cost?
You have many local and national choices regarding flat fee MLS services. Fees range from $89 to $1,299, depending on your service level. Some listing services offer more options at better rates, and some options are only available if you pay an add-on fee or upgrade your service level. Limited agent assistance may also be available at an additional cost.
As you consider your options, weigh the different services and fees against the possible benefits and drawbacks.
Flat fee MLS listing companies
Let’s take a look at some examples of flat fee MLS listing companies in the U.S.
Note: Individual program details can change — please visit a provider’s website for the most current information on rate packages, fees, service areas, and more. HomeLight always recommends doing your own research to determine which selling option is best for your situation.