If you’re considering selling your Raleigh home without the help of a real estate agent, using a flat fee MLS listing service could be the solution. This service allows for sale by owner (FSBO) sellers to list their homes in the local multiple listing service (MLS) without needing a traditional agent. This access can significantly increase the visibility of your home, connecting you to potential buyers and buyer’s agents more effectively.
However, a flat fee MLS service may not be suitable for everyone. This article will explore the pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right choice. We’ll highlight several companies offering these services in Raleigh, discuss costs, and provide the information needed to help you make an informed decision.
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Disclaimer: This post is meant to be used for educational purposes. Links and mentions of Raleigh flat fee MLS companies in this post do not constitute an endorsement.
What is a flat fee MLS listing service in Raleigh?
A flat fee MLS is a service designed for FSBO home sellers, allowing them to list their property on the local multiple listing service without needing a traditional real estate agent. The MLS is a comprehensive database that compiles homes currently on the market, facilitating information exchange among real estate professionals.
Typically, only licensed real estate agents can post listings on the MLS. However, flat fee MLS services offer a workaround for FSBO sellers, allowing them to list their homes directly. This enables homeowners to maximize their property’s exposure while avoiding the costs of a traditional agent.
How much does a flat fee MLS service cost in Raleigh?
Fees for flat fee MLS companies in Raleigh can vary significantly. Some services charge as low as $100 or less, while others can cost thousands of dollars. More expensive plans often include additional features, such as a comparative market analysis to help you price your home competitively.
Next, we will explore a list of flat-fee MLS companies available to Raleigh home sellers and highlight their fees and services.
Flat fee MLS listing companies in Raleigh
Disclaimer: 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.
Flat Fee Group, Raleigh
Flat Fee Group is a national group of independent real estate brokers that help FSBO sellers in various U.S. metros. All brokers and agents working with Flat Fee Group are independent, not third-party referral sites. The local brokers are available for interviews before booking the service.
Service areas: Serves 50 states, including North Carolina.
Cost of service: $295 to $995, depending on the package.
Additional service notes:
- MLS listing time: six months
- Up to 25 photos allowed, yard sign and lockbox included
- Some packages come with a market analysis, and the full-service package includes help with negotiations
Operating under the name Listing Results, LLC, Flat Fee Group has earned an average rating of 4.95 out of 5 stars on the Better Business Bureau.
Unreal Estate
Unreal Estate allows sellers to reach millions of buyers by listing on the MLS, Realtor.com, Trulia, and Zillow without working with a real estate agent. The company, formerly USRealty, offers a variety of plans and pricing options, including a free starter plan where homeowners only pay if they sell their home.
Service areas: Serves 49 states (all except South Dakota) and Washington D.C.
Cost of service: $0-$299
Additional service notes:
- MLS listing time: 6 months
- Minimum of 5 listing photos (depending on package)
- Deluxe and premium packages include yard sign
Unreal Estate received an average of 4.2 out of five stars on Trustpilot. Reviewers mentioned how fast and affordable the service is, with one reviewer reporting that they “saved a ton.”
Website: unrealestate.com
Phone number: 866-534-3726
Express MLS Listing
Express MLS Listing is part of Select Premium Properties, Inc., a local North Carolina real estate company owned and operated by Stephanie Smith, the principal broker. The company has been in business for more than 20 years. The entire listing process is performed on their website. Free support is available by phone or email.
Service areas: Major metropolitan areas in North Carolina and parts of South Carolina.
The basic package costs $195 for six months. It includes six photos. Extra photos, lock boxes, and marketing materials, such as signage, are an additional cost. Contract reviews are also an option at an additional cost.
Additional service notes:
- Provides MLS listing for six months.
- Forwards all leads.
- Supplies free forms and contract templates.
- Offers free customer support via phone or email.
- Offers rental listings.
Principal broker Stephanie Smith has a 4.8-star rating from 85 reviews on Zillow. Reviewers noted her attentiveness and quick responses.
Phone number: 703-831-6806 or 910-518-9280
Homecoin.com, Raleigh
Homecoin.com utilizes software to provide all tools online. List on the MLS using your smartphone with Homecoin. Choose your listing agent and complete forms and agreements on their website.
Service areas: Serves North Carolina and nearby areas, including Raleigh.
Cost of service: $95 includes a 12-month MLS listing, 25+ photos on the MLS, free to cancel, 10 free listing changes, complete and manage 100% online.
Homecoin.com has a 4.6-star rating on Google from over 80 reviews and a 4.8-star rating on Yelp from over 100 reviews.
North Carolina Flat Fee MLS
North Carolina Flat Fee MLS lists your house upfront on the local MLS, visible to prospective buyers. Upon purchase, you’ll receive all the necessary documents to reach hundreds of buyers.
Service areas: Serves the entire State of North Carolina, including Raleigh
Cost of service: $99 to $199
Additional service notes:
Includes a 6-month MLS listing term, up to 50 photos, listing syndication, all MLS forms and disclosures, customer service, and more.
A customer review on the North Carolina Flat Fee MLS website highlighted its ease of use and cost-effectiveness, saving them $15,000 in realtor fees. They recommend it for anyone selling without a realtor, noting no hidden fees.
Website: northcarolinamlsflatfee.com
Phone number: 800-699-4480
How would a Raleigh seller benefit from a flat fee MLS service?
A flat-fee MLS service can be a cost-effective option for Raleigh home sellers who want to avoid paying a full real estate commission. Traditional commissions can be 5% to 6%, split between the listing and buyer’s agents. By using a flat-fee MLS service, sellers can eliminate the listing agent’s fee while still reaching a broad audience.
If you have a desirable home in a hot market or want to be highly involved in the selling process, a flat fee MLS service might be a good fit. Here are some benefits:
- Save on listing agent commission.
- Gain full control over your home sale.
- Achieve broad exposure through the MLS.
It should be noted, however, that on March 15, 2024, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) announced a landmark lawsuit settlement that will change the way real estate agent commissions are handled in the future. These changes will “decouple” seller and buyer agent compensation. Industry experts predict that this decoupling will likely lower agent fees and allow buyers to negotiate commission amounts directly. Learn more.
Pros and cons of using a flat fee MLS listing service
Pros:
- Eliminate the listing agent commission (typically 2.5% to 3%).
- 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.
- Helps expand your exposure to traditional buyers and their agents.
Cons:
- You’re still required to offer a commission to the buyer’s agent.
- You’ll be responsible for handling any issues that may delay or kill the deal.
- It’s a self-serve process that you’ll navigate without the guidance of a licensed agent.
- You may be exposing yourself to liability claims and other legal risks.
- Your house may 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 MLS service, follow these steps:
- Vet the flat fee MLS service: Research the local service, including packages and rates. Check Google reviews and the Better Business Bureau.
- Register and select a plan: Register on the flat fee MLS company website, select your package, and pay the upfront fee online.
- Enter your property information: Describe your property and upload photos. Fill out disclosure forms if available.
- Read and sign your listing agreement: Sign the listing agreement. Ensure you can cancel without penalty and won’t owe a listing commission.
- Review your live listing: Once it is live, review it on real estate sites to ensure accuracy.
Are flat fee MLS listings effective in Raleigh?
Using a local MLS can be highly effective for sellers in Raleigh. Homebuyers and buyers’ agents rely on the MLS for up-to-date listings, making it a crucial marketing tool.
Alternatives to flat fee MLS services in Raleigh:
If a flat fee MLS service doesn’t fit your needs, consider these alternatives:
- Flat fee real estate agent: Offers limited services for a flat rate, ranging from $3,000 to $5,000.
- Discount real estate broker: Provides reduced commission services but often still offers essential support.
- Full-service, experienced real estate agent: Offers comprehensive services and local market expertise to sell your home faster and for more money.
Will I save money with a flat fee MLS listing service?
While a flat fee MLS can save on commission fees, FSBO homes often sell for less. According to the National Association of Realtors, FSBO homes sell for around 23% less than agent-assisted sales. Thus, while you might save on upfront costs, you could net less overall.
What if I need to sell my Raleigh home fast?
If you need to sell quickly, consider working with an iBuyer or a “We Buy Houses” company. These companies can purchase your home in days, though often at a lower price. Alternatively, HomeLight’s Simple Sale can expedite the process or connect you with a local agent for more options.
What else should I know about selling a house in Raleigh?
While using flat fee MLS listing services, sellers must comply with local disclosure laws. Hiring a real estate attorney can help navigate the complexities of disclosures and contracts, avoiding legal issues.
Key points to remember:
- Unlike traditional agents whose fees are contingent on the sale, flat fee services are paid upfront.
- Some services frequently change names, complicating their success tracking.
- These services often include the seller’s contact info directly in the listing.
- No dedicated individual assists through the listing service, unlike traditional agents.
- Flat fee services charge a fixed rate, whereas traditional agent fees can be negotiated.
Ready to sell your Raleigh home?
Selling a house can be like taking on another full-time job. Utilizing a flat fee MLS listing service offers varying levels of support, but cutting costs on agent commissions might not always be the best move. Sellers often need to cover the buyer’s agent commission and MLS service fees and might end up selling for less than with a traditional agent. HomeLight can connect you with a local agent to help navigate your sale efficiently.
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