If you’re thinking about selling your Maine home without a real estate agent, you might worry about not getting enough exposure. Since the multiple listing service (MLS) is typically only accessible to agents, reaching buyers on your own can be challenging. A smart solution is to use a flat fee MLS company, which lets you list your home on the local MLS without hiring a traditional agent.
Selling FSBO can be challenging, but a flat fee MLS service is a tool that can make the process more successful. In this article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of using a flat fee MLS service, highlight several companies in Maine that offer these listings, and provide insights into their costs and benefits.
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What is a flat fee MLS listing service in Maine?
A flat fee MLS service is designed for FSBO (For Sale By Owner) sellers in Maine, enabling them to list their property on the local MLS without needing a traditional real estate agent. The MLS is an exclusive database that compiles homes currently on the market, providing crucial exposure to real estate professionals and buyers alike.
Agents representing buyers use the MLS to find properties that match their clients’ criteria, access detailed property information, and schedule viewings. Flat fee MLS services let FSBO sellers get their homes on the MLS, helping them reach more buyers without paying the high fees of a traditional agent.
How much does a flat fee MLS service cost in Maine?
The cost of a flat fee MLS service in Maine can vary significantly depending on the company you choose. Some flat fee MLS companies offer basic packages for as low as $100 or less, while others can charge thousands of dollars.
More expensive plans often include additional features and services to help market your home more effectively. For instance, some pricier options may include a comparative market analysis, which helps you set a competitive price for your property.
Flat fee MLS listing companies in Maine
Flat Fee Susie
Flat Fee Susie has been serving the FSBO community for nearly two decades, offering expert flat fee MLS listing services across multiple states. The company’s founder serves as the broker in most states, supported by experienced local listing agents who deliver top-tier service and ensure sellers get more value than they pay for.
By listing properties on the MLS, clients gain professional exposure while avoiding the typical agent commission costs, which can amount to tens of thousands of dollars on a standard home sale.
Service areas: Nationwide, including Maine
- Package 1: $99 for a six-month listing term, up to six listing photos, lead forwarding, forms and disclosures, and unlimited listing changes
- Package 2: $199 for Package 1 inclusions, up to 50 photos, Realtor showing scheduling service, and open house postings
- Full Service: $1,200 for a 12-month listing term, full seller agent representation, yard sign, lockbox, and negotiations
Flat Fee Susie earned a high average review score of 4.8 out of 5 stars on Google. Clients say the company provides outstanding support throughout the home-selling process.
Many appreciate that the company empowers sellers to handle their own listings and showings while offering expert guidance when needed. Reviewers note the team’s professionalism, timely communication, and helpful advice, all delivered without pressure.
Website: flatfeesusie.com
Phone number: 615-364-0948
FSBO.com
Established in 1997, FSBO.com provides homeowners with a flat-fee MLS listing service as an alternative to traditional real estate representation. Sellers maintain control over their transactions while gaining professional exposure on the MLS.
The platform also offers a property search tool, including foreclosures, for buyers. By combining affordable listings with easy-to-use technology, FSBO.com helps clients buy or sell on their own terms.
Service areas: Nationwide, including Maine
- FSBO Package: $99.95
- MLS Package: $399.95 for a six-month listing term, up to 25 photos, and syndication to Zillow and other websites
Trusted for its transparent operations, FSBO.com earned an A+ grade from the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Reviews on the company’s Facebook page highlight the platform’s simple, user-friendly design for selling a home.
Many appreciate how easy it is to manage listings on their own, while also commending the responsive and helpful customer support. Overall, sellers describe the service as reliable, efficient, and a practical choice for DIY home sales.
Website: fsbo.com
Phone number: 800-690-5802
ISoldMyHouse.com
ISoldMyHouse.com is an online platform that helps homeowners sell their homes while keeping more of their equity. Founded in 1997, it offers a simple flat-fee MLS listing service with exposure on major sites like Zillow and Realtor.com.
Sellers stay in control of their sales and save on commission fees. With easy-to-use tools and clear guidance, the platform makes selling a home on your own straightforward.
Service areas: Nationwide, including Maine
- Get Listed: $299 for up to 10 photos, lead forwarding, and cancellation anytime
- Get Sold: $399 for Get Listed inclusions and up to 25 listing photos
ISoldMyHouse.com, accredited by the BBB since 2018 with an A+ rating, earns high marks for professionalism, reflected in its 4.6-star Google average. Many note that the platform helps FSBO listings reach serious buyers directly, often speeding up negotiations and closings. Users also highlight how the service simplifies the selling process, minimizes typical delays, and keeps transactions running smoothly.
Website: isoldmyhouse.com
Phone number: 855-283-0001
HomeZu
Homezu leverages over 45 years of combined experience in the flat fee real estate business, with more than 30,000 properties listed. It helps sellers make the most of the MLS while ensuring compliance across 50+ MLSs in 11 states.
The company also supports a network of 30+ partner brokers nationwide, covering over 300 additional MLSs. With this expertise, the company provides guidance and tools to help sellers maximize exposure and efficiency.
Service areas: Nationwide, including Maine
- Basic: $399 for MLS entry only
- Enhanced: $699 for contract review
- Premium: $999 for full support
*All packages include a six-month listing term, up to 20 listing photos, forms and disclosures, lead forwarding, open house ads, and electronic contract signing. They also come with an additional +0.1% fee at closing.
HomeZu earned a high average review score of 4.9 out of 5 stars on Google, as many clients share that their smooth, straightforward selling experience with the company. They appreciate the guidance provided throughout the selling process and felt well-supported from start to finish. Several reviewers recognize the team’s professionalism and responsiveness.
Website: homezu.com
Phone number: 877-249-5478
How would a Maine seller benefit from a flat fee MLS service?
A flat fee MLS service might be the right choice for you if you’re looking to save on the cost of a real estate commission. Typically, home sellers pay agent fees around 5% to 6% of the home’s sale price, split between the listing agent and the buyer’s agent.
By using a flat fee MLS, you can eliminate the cost of a listing agent and pay a flat fee instead. And given the commission changes that separate buyer and seller agent fees, you may also save further by not having to cover the buyer’s agent’s compensation.
If you have a desirable home in a hot market, a flat fee MLS service can attract multiple buyers and competitive offers and make your FSBO sale a lot smoother.
Selling FSBO is ideal if you want to be very involved in your home sale or prefer not to work with a licensed agent. You’ll take on tasks typically handled by an agent, including:
- Use market data to set the best selling price for your home.
- Write a listing description that appeals to buyers and their agents.
- Take professional photos of your property.
- Market and advertise your home.
- Complete the state and federal required disclosures.
- Coordinate showings and open houses.
- Review offers and make counteroffers.
- Negotiate the sales price.
- Understand and negotiate the terms of your contract.
- Calculate your closing costs and your net proceeds.
- Navigate any issues with the appraisal or inspection.
- Handle any local real estate transfer taxes.
- Get the required documentation together.
Pros and cons of using a flat fee MLS listing service
Using a flat fee MLS listing service can be a smart way to sell your home on your own terms. But before deciding, it’s important to weigh the benefits and potential drawbacks to see if it’s the right fit for you.
Pros:
The advantages of using a flat fee listing company in your FSBO sale include:
- Eliminate the listing agent commission, typically 2.5% to 3% of the sale price.
- Represent yourself in your home sale.
- Control all aspects of the sale from start to finish.
- Pay known costs for the listing service, upfront.
- Get your home listed on the MLS and third-party websites.
- Expand your exposure to traditional buyers and their agents.
Cons:
The disadvantages of using a flat fee listing company for your FSBO sale include:
- Be responsible for the buyer’s agent commission, depending on negotiations.
- Handle any issues that may delay or kill the deal on your own.
- Navigate the transaction without the guidance of a local expert.
- Put yourself at risk of legal troubles.
- Sell for less than it would with a traditional real estate professional.
How do I list my home with a flat fee MLS service?
Once you’ve decided to list your home with a flat fee listing service, follow these steps to get your FSBO home on the MLS:
Step 1: Vet the flat fee MLS service
Research the local service you’d like to use, including packages and rates. Look up Google reviews and check out the company on the BBB. Know how much information you can list, how many photos you can post, what forms are available free of charge, and which add-ons come at an additional charge.
Step 2: Register and select a plan
Register on the flat fee MLS company website, select the package you want, and pay the upfront fee online.
Step 3: Enter your property information
Describe your property and upload photos. If your service offers it, fill out the disclosure form.
Step 4: Read and sign your listing agreement
Sign the listing agreement. Ensure you read it thoroughly to confirm you can cancel without penalty and won’t owe a listing commission.
Step 5: Review your live listing
Once your listing is complete, the company will publish it to the local MLS, making it visible to buyers’ agents. It will likely be posted on real estate websites such as Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com. Review how your listing appears on these sites to ensure it’s correct and complete.
Are flat fee MLS listings effective in Maine?
Flat fee MLS listings are highly effective in Maine because they ensure your home is visible on the most widely used online platforms that buyers use. Nearly all homebuyers use the internet to search for homes, and these platforms rely on local MLS databases for up-to-date listings. Buyers’ agents also depend on MLS data, making it a crucial marketing tool for sellers.
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Alternatives to flat fee MLS services in Maine:
If a flat fee MLS service doesn’t work for you, consider these other options:
Option 1: Flat fee agent
A flat fee real estate agent lists and sells your home for a fixed fee, typically ranging from $3,000 to $5,000, with some additional service charges. This option is ideal for homeowners seeking control over their sales while still needing professional guidance. Review the listing contract carefully for included services and extra fees.
Option 2: Discount brokers
Discount real estate brokers offer low-commission services, often providing basic support at a reduced fee. While more expensive than flat fee MLS services, they offer more substantial support.
Option 3: Full-service, experienced real estate agent
List with a top-performing full-service Realtor who offers dedicated full services, extensive market knowledge, and valuable local connections to sell your home faster and for the best price.
Will I save money with a flat fee MLS listing service?
Though you will save on commission fees, you may lose out in the long run. Research from the National Association of Realtors shows that FSBO homes sold for less compared to homes sold by an agent. The median selling price for an FSBO was $380,000, while the median sale price of homes sold by an agent was $435,000.
So, while a flat fee MLS can be an effective tool, it’s important to remember that selling your home FSBO could result in less overall profit once all is said and done.
What if I need to sell my Maine home fast?
If you need to sell your home quickly, you have options. Consider working with a We Buy Houses company or an iBuyer. These companies will purchase your home in almost any condition, often within days. Be prepared to lose money, though, as they typically pay less than if you sold your home on the open market. However, when time is of the essence, these can be a good option.
HomeLight also offers Simple Sale, which can expedite the process or connect you with a local agent to provide more options. This service ensures a quick sale without compromising the quality of the transaction, making it ideal for those in urgent situations.
What else should I know about selling a house in Maine?
You must comply with local disclosure laws when selling a house in Maine. Although not mandatory, hiring a real estate attorney is advisable for FSBO sellers to navigate the complexities of disclosures and contracts and avoid costly legal issues post-sale.
Here are some additional points to consider:
- Flat fee services are paid upfront, regardless of whether the house sells, unlike traditional agents whose fees are contingent on the sale.
- Some services may change names frequently, complicating the tracking of their success rate.
- Often, these services include the seller’s contact info directly in the listing, shifting more communication responsibilities to the seller.
- There may not be a dedicated individual to assist sellers through the listing service, a stark contrast to traditional agents.
- While flat fee services charge a fixed rate, traditional agent fees can be negotiated.
Ready to sell your Maine home?
Selling a house is like taking on a full-time job, especially for FSBO sellers who handle many responsibilities typically managed by an agent. A flat fee MLS listing service can ease some challenges by providing varying levels of support, but sellers will still pay service fees and may still cover the buyer’s agent commission.
Moreover, flat fee MLS services offer potential savings on agent commissions but may result in selling for less than with a traditional agent. If you want personalized assistance on your home sale, HomeLight can connect you with a local agent in your area to help you through the process.
Editor’s note: This post is for educational purposes only. Links to and mentions of Maine area flat fee MLS companies are not endorsements. Moreover, the program details mentioned above may change. Visit the company’s website for the most up-to-date information.
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