Selling your Dallas home via For Sale By Owner (FSBO) can make it harder to reach buyers. Since the multiple listing service (MLS) is typically only accessible to licensed agents, your listing might not get much attention. The good news is, you can use a flat fee MLS Dallas service that lets you get your home on the MLS for a set price, giving it wide visibility without paying the high fees of a full-service agent.
In this article, we explain the pros and cons of using a flat fee MLS service, which listing services are available in Dallas, how they work, and what you might pay.
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What is a flat fee MLS listing service in Dallas?
A flat fee MLS listing service is specifically designed for FSBO home sellers, allowing them to list their property on the local MLS without needing a traditional real estate agent.
The MLS is a private database that lists homes for sale and helps real estate professionals share information with each other. Typically, only licensed real estate professionals can post listings on the MLS.
However, flat fee MLS services offer a workaround for FSBO sellers, allowing them to list their homes on the MLS directly. This enables homeowners to maximize their property’s exposure while avoiding the costs of engaging a traditional real estate agent.
How much does a flat fee MLS service cost in Dallas?
The cost of a flat fee MLS service in Dallas can vary widely depending on the company, with some fees as low as $100 or less, while others can cost thousands of dollars. More expensive plans often include a variety of extras or features, such as a comparative market analysis, which can provide valuable insights into pricing your home correctly in the competitive Dallas real estate market.
Choosing the right flat fee MLS service requires balancing costs against the services provided. In the following section, we’ll introduce some of the flat fee MLS companies available to Dallas home sellers, highlighting their fees and the services they offer to help you make the best decision for selling your home.
Flat fee MLS listing companies in Dallas
VIP Realty
VIP Realty helps homeowners in Dallas sell their properties while saving on costly traditional commission fees. With two customized flat fee MLS listing options, the company provides solutions tailored to each seller’s goals and needs.
The listing packages support sellers who wish to manage the process themselves, as well as those who rely on comprehensive support. Either way, homeowners gain professional marketing and broad market exposure without paying the high costs of standard real estate services.
Service areas: Dallas
- FSBO: $600 for MLS listing and syndication to popular real estate websites
- Full Service: $5,000 for professional photos, pricing strategy, lockbox and yard sign, showing coordination, and offer negotiation
Accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) since 2018, VIP Realty maintains an A+ rating and boasts a 4.7-star average on Google. Reviewers praise the team’s professionalism, knowledge, and trustworthiness, noting their guidance through challenging selling scenarios.
Clients appreciate how the company connects them with dependable professionals and manages each stage of the transaction carefully. The team is praised for going the extra mile to protect clients’ interests and provide expert advice and reassurance throughout the selling process.
Website: viprealtyinfo.com
Phone: 214-295-4888
Congress Realty
Congress Realty, Inc., a licensed brokerage serving multiple states, including Texas, helps homeowners sell their properties efficiently and affordably. By completing a simple form and specifying their asking price, sellers can quickly get their homes listed on the local MLS.
The listings provide the same visibility as a traditional full-commission sale, connecting properties with a wide pool of potential buyers. By eliminating high commission fees, the company allows homeowners to retain more of their equity.
Service areas: Throughout Texas, including Dallas, and other states, including Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah
- Basic: $299 for a six-month listing term, state forms and disclosures, up to five listing changes, up to six listing photos, showing time appointment tool, and sales comp
- Plus: $399 for up to 10 listing changes, maximum number of photos allowed, and automated phone lead forwarding
- Premium: $499 for unlimited listing changes, unlimited open house postings, and social media feature
- Full Service: $399 + 0.5% for contract review, closing transaction, and full negotiation and paperwork support
Congress Realty holds an A rating from the BBB and a strong 4.8-star Google review average. Clients note that the company offers a streamlined, efficient flat-fee MLS listing experience that makes selling a home straightforward.
Several sellers highlight the team’s prompt responses and valuable guidance throughout the process. Leads are quickly forwarded, enabling sellers to act fast, with some receiving offers and closing in just a few days.
Website: congressrealty.com
Phone: 888-230-4824
Listing Results
Listing Results is a team of licensed agents who have been committed to helping homeowners since 1998. In 2000, the company introduced flat fee MLS services, offering a more affordable and accessible way for sellers to market their properties.
With this service, homeowners can showcase their homes to a wide audience while avoiding the high costs of traditional commissions. By combining professional service with cost-effective solutions, the company provides a streamlined and effective home-selling experience.
Service areas: Throughout Texas, including Dallas
- Basic: $499 for a six-month listing term, up to 50 listing photos, contracts and disclosures, showing appointment service, and insta-offer forwarding
- Plus: $599 for Basic inclusions, sign, combo key box, and comparative market analysis
- Full Service Plan 1: $999 for Plus inclusions, 12-month listing term, contract review, counteroffer preparation, negotiation, and e-signing of contracts and addendum
- Full Service Plan 2: $1,399 for Full Service Plan 1 inclusions and professional photos
Listing Results, accredited by the BBB since 2013, holds an A+ rating. Its Google Business Profile earned 4.8 stars, as clients frequently note that the company offers a simple, flat-fee MLS listing that helps save money without compromising results.
Sellers praise the fast sales and seamless closings, appreciating the ability to handle negotiations and contracts independently. The team is recognized for being responsive, transparent, and free of hidden fees, making it a highly recommended choice for those seeking a cost-effective and efficient selling experience.
Website: listingresults.com
Phone: 1-800-433-5206
Homecoin
Homecoin is a real estate company specializing in flat fee MLS listings, helping homeowners sell their properties affordably while gaining full market exposure. Properties are listed on the MLS and syndicated to major real estate sites, giving sellers broad visibility to potential buyers. With flexible flat fee options, the real estate company empowers homeowners to maintain control over pricing, showings, and negotiations.
Service areas: Texas and 20 other states
- Basic: $95 for a 12-month listing term, up to 25 photos, 10 free listing changes, and disclosure forms
- Review: $99 + $95 (MLS listing fee) for Basic inclusions, listing form review, up to 1 hour of live support via phone and screenshare
- Full Service: $299 + $95 (MLS listing fee) for Review inclusions, up to 1.5 hours of live support, kick-off call, and dedicated staff member
Homecoin receives high praise for its user-friendly platform and cost-effective approach to listing homes, thus generating a 4.4-star rating on Google. Many sellers share that the company consistently delivers a comprehensive, user-friendly service for selling homes without an agent over multiple transactions.
Some highlight the significant savings they’ve earned, while others recommend Homecoin to anyone looking for a cost-effective and efficient way to sell their property.
Website: homecoin.com
Phone number: 888-400-2513
Creekview Realty
Creekview Realty has been serving homeowners since 2002, drawing on decades of experience in brokerage, investment, construction, and consulting. Specializing in flat fee MLS listings, the company helps sellers gain exposure on the local MLS as well as hundreds of major real estate platforms. With a focus on effective marketing, the team combines industry knowledge with personalized support to maximize visibility and reach qualified buyers.
Service areas: Throughout Texas, including Dallas
- Plan A: $600 for a six-month listing term, yard sign, and state forms
- Plan B: $1,400 for Plan A inclusions and agent-assisted contract review and repair negotiations
Additional services:
- Electronic keybox: $100 (refundable deposit)
- Professional photography: $225
- Comparative market analysis: $100
Additional signage: $50
Creekview Realty earned an A+ BBB rating and a 4.7-star Google review average. Homeowners commend the team’s responsiveness and practical guidance throughout the process.
Many appreciate the cost savings compared to traditional methods and value the overall efficiency of the service. The website is also noted for offering clear, helpful resources that make selling a home faster and easier.
Website: creekviewrealty.com
Phone: 214-696-4663
How would a Dallas seller benefit from a flat fee MLS service?
Choosing a flat fee MLS service is a smart option for sellers who want more control over the selling process. Traditionally, the seller is the one responsible for paying the real estate commission, usually 5% to 6% of the sale price, split between the listing agent and the buyer’s agent.
With a flat fee MLS service, you avoid paying the listing agent’s portion of that commission, making the process more cost-effective. Thanks to recent 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 your home is in a strong seller’s market, getting it on the MLS can draw in multiple buyers and competitive offers, giving you a better chance at a quicker and more profitable sale.
By taking an FSBO approach, you maintain full control over the sale process, from setting the selling price to managing showings and open houses. This is ideal for those with the time, energy, and desire to be heavily involved in the sale of their property.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you can be expected to handle:
- Use market data to set the best selling price.
- Craft a compelling listing description.
- Take professional photos and market your property effectively.
- Complete necessary state and federal disclosures.
- Coordinate showings and open houses, review offers, and make counteroffers.
- Negotiate the sales price and contract terms.
- Calculate closing costs and net proceeds.
- Navigate appraisal or inspection issues.
- Handle local real estate transfer taxes and gather the required documentation.
Signing up for a flat fee MLS service can save money and empower you to take charge of your home sale, provided you’re prepared for the responsibilities that come with it.
Pros and cons of using a flat fee MLS listing service
When selling a home, understanding all your options is key. A flat fee MLS listing service can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional real estate agents, but it’s not without its trade-offs. The following breakdown explores the main advantages and potential drawbacks, helping you decide if this approach is the right fit for your selling strategy.
Pros
Using a flat fee listing service for your FSBO sale comes with big advantages, especially if you want to take a more hands-on approach to selling your home:
- No listing agent commission: Typically, this can save you 2.5% to 3% of the home’s selling price.
- Self-representation in your home sale: You have full control over how your home is marketed and sold.
- Complete control: From setting the price to negotiating with buyers, you manage every aspect of the sale.
- Upfront cost transparency: Pay a known fee for the listing service upfront, with no hidden costs.
- Broad exposure: Get your home listed on the MLS and popular third-party websites, increasing visibility to potential buyers and their agents.
Cons
However, there are also some disadvantages to consider when working with a flat fee MLS listing service for your FSBO sale:
- Buyer’s agent commission: Depending on negotiations, you may still need to cover the buyer’s agent commission, typically around 2.5% to 3%, which affects your net proceeds.
- Personal responsibility: You’ll need to handle any issues that arise during the sale process, which could delay or jeopardize the deal.
- Lack of professional guidance: Navigating the sale without the expertise of a local real estate professional means you’re on your own to make crucial decisions.
- Potential legal risks: Managing the sale yourself could expose you to liability claims and other legal complications.
- Possibly lower sale price: Without a traditional real estate agent’s negotiation skills and market knowledge, your home might sell for less than it could have otherwise.
How do I list my home with a flat fee MLS service?
Once you’ve decided to list your Dallas home using a flat fee MLS service, here’s a straightforward guide to getting your FSBO home on the MLS:
Step 1: Vet the flat fee MLS service
Start by researching the local service you’re interested in, including their packages and rates. Look up Google reviews and check out the company on the BBB website. Confirm details such as the number of information and photos you can include, what forms are provided at no extra cost, and which add-ons might incur additional charges.
Step 2: Register and select a plan
Register on the flat fee MLS company’s website, choose the best package that suits your needs, and pay the upfront fee online.
Step 3: Enter your property information
Describe your property in detail and upload photos. If available, complete the disclosure form provided by the service.
Step 4: Read and sign your listing agreement
Carefully read and then sign the listing agreement. Make sure the agreement allows you to cancel without penalty and that you won’t owe a listing commission.
Step 5: Review your live listing
After completing your listing, the service will publish it on the local MLS, making it visible to buyers’ agents and, typically, on real estate websites such as Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com. Be aware that it may take a few days to appear. Once live, review your listing on these sites to ensure it’s accurate and comprehensive.
Are flat fee MLS listings effective in Dallas?
Using a flat fee listing service in Dallas to get your home on the local MLS is one of the best ways to reach buyers. Most people start their home search online, and the listings they see usually come straight from the MLS. Since buyers and their agents also rely heavily on MLS data, having your property there gives it more exposure and a better chance of attracting serious offers.
Get a near-instant real estate house price estimate from HomeLight for free. Our tool analyzes the records of recently sold homes near you, your home’s last sale price, and other market trends to provide a preliminary range of value in under two minutes.How Much Is Your Dallas Home Worth Now?
Alternatives to flat fee MLS services in Dallas:
If a flat fee MLS service doesn’t seem like the right fit for your Dallas home sale, consider these alternatives:
- Flat fee agent: A flat fee real estate agent offers limited services for a set rate, typically between $3,000 and $5,000, which might include additional fees for extra services. This option is perfect for homeowners seeking more control but desiring professional guidance.
- Discount brokers: Discount real estate brokers charge a lower commission than traditional agents but still offer basic services and support. Although more expensive than flat fee MLS services, they can be a cost-effective alternative, though, depending on negotiations, you may still pay the buyer’s agent commission. Explore the pros and cons of low commission to understand this option better.
- Full-service, experienced real estate agent: A full-service Realtor provides comprehensive services, including deep market knowledge, local connections, and skilled sales strategies. This option is ideal for sellers looking for expertise and support to navigate the Dallas market for a fast and profitable sale.
Will I save money with a flat fee MLS listing service?
Using a flat fee MLS listing service in Dallas can indeed save you money on commission fees upfront. However, it’s essential to consider the broader financial picture.
According to the National Association of Realtors, FSBO homes typically sell for approximately 13% less than those sold through an agent. With the median FSBO selling price at $380,000 compared to $435,000 for agent-assisted sales, the initial savings on commissions might be offset by a lower final sale price.
While a flat fee MLS listing offers significant exposure and can be an effective selling tool, selling your Dallas home FSBO might result in a lower overall profit when all factors are considered.
What if I need to sell my Dallas home fast
If you’re in a situation where you need to sell your Dallas home quickly, there are avenues available to expedite the process. Exploring options like We Buy Houses companies or an iBuyer could be beneficial.
These entities are prepared to purchase your home quickly, often within days, and typically regardless of its condition. While this route might yield a lower selling price compared to the open market, it offers a speedy resolution when time is critical.
HomeLight’s Simple Sale platform is a good middle-ground option. It can make the selling process easier and even connect you with a local agent if you want more choices.
What else should I know about selling a house in Dallas?
If you’re selling a house in Dallas, it’s important to know that while flat fee MLS services can save you money and give you more flexibility, you still have to follow local disclosure laws.
Because real estate deals can get complicated, many FSBO sellers also choose to work with a real estate attorney. An attorney can walk you through contracts and disclosures and help you avoid legal issues down the road
Here are some more points to remember:
- Flat fee services require payment upfront, regardless of whether the house sells, unlike traditional agents who earn their fees upon the sale.
- Be aware that some flat fee services may frequently change their names, which can make it difficult to assess their track record.
- Listings via flat fee services often include the seller’s contact information, meaning sellers should be prepared to handle more inquiries directly.
- Unlike with a traditional agent, there may not be a dedicated professional available to guide sellers through the process when using a flat fee service.
- While flat fee services offer a set rate, the commissions for traditional agents are typically open to negotiation, potentially offering savings if you’re skilled in bargaining.
Ready to sell your Dallas home?
Selling your Dallas home is no small task. It’s like starting a full-time job.
For those opting to sell through a traditional real estate agent, you gain a partner who’s deeply familiar with the ins and outs of the market, dedicated to securing the best outcome for your property sale. On the other hand, going the For Sale By Owner (FSBO) route means taking on many responsibilities typically managed by an agent, a challenging endeavor, particularly for those juggling other commitments or those less familiar with real estate transactions.
Using a flat fee MLS listing service can mitigate some of these challenges by providing different levels of support based on the chosen package. However, it’s essential to weigh the decision carefully, as the initial savings on agent commissions might be offset by the need to pay the buyer’s agent commission and possibly lower sale prices.
If you’re ready to sell your Dallas home and want tailored guidance, HomeLight can connect you with a local agent who understands your needs and the local market. This support can help streamline your selling journey.
Editor’s note: This post is for educational purposes only. Links to and mentions of Dallas 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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