Although For Sale By Owner (FSBO) in Raleigh can be fulfilling, you risk missing buyers when your listing isn’t available on the multiple listing service (MLS). The MLS is reserved for licensed agents, so without a Realtor, your property may go unnoticed. Fortunately, many companies offer flat fee MLS Raleigh services, which put your listing where buyers are searching without the high cost of a full-service agent.
However, a flat fee MLS service may not be suitable for everyone. This article explores the pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right choice. We highlight several companies offering these services in Raleigh, discuss costs, and provide crucial information to help you make an informed decision.
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What is a flat fee MLS listing service in Raleigh?
A flat fee MLS service allows FSBO sellers to list their property on the local MLS 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.
Flat fee MLS listing companies in Raleigh
Clickit Realty
Established in 2000, Clickit Realty is a licensed brokerage that provides sellers with a flat fee, limited-service alternative designed for quicker sales and greater control. The company operates nationwide and maintains memberships in numerous MLSs and Realtor associations, including 20 MLSs across North Carolina.
This extensive reach allows Clickit Realty to showcase listings broadly to local real estate professionals. With its combination of MLS access, expert guidance, and an affordable pricing model, the brokerage enables homeowners to sell effectively while reducing commission costs
Service areas: Throughout North Carolina and other states, such as Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, New York, and Connecticut
- Silver: $299 for a six-month listing term, up to three listing photos, state disclosures, yard sign, color flyer, and lead forwarding
- Gold: $399 for Silver inclusions and up to 25 listing photos
- Platinum: $599 for Gold inclusions, up to 40 listing photos, lock box, virtual tour, open house, and brochure box
- Full Service: $995 for a 12-month listing term, scheduling assistance, negotiations, and contract support and presentation
Accredited by the Better Business Bureau since 2013, Clickit Realty has earned an A+ rating. On Google, it holds a 4-star average, with many sellers highlighting the company’s ability to make the selling process straightforward and low-stress, supported by responsive assistance throughout.
Clients often praise its flat-fee structure, which delivers full MLS exposure and the required documentation for a proper transaction. Others emphasize the company’s attentive service and professional support, making it a trusted option for homeowners seeking savings and efficiency.
Website: clickitrealty.com
Phone number: 888-875-4218
Smart Choice Realty
Smart Choice Realty, established in 2008, is committed to offering cost-saving alternatives that help homeowners keep more of their equity. Since its founding, it has sold more than 1,000 homes and saved clients over $8 million in commissions. Aside from flat fee MLS services, the firm provides home valuation assistance for property sellers.
Service areas: Raleigh and other areas in North Carolina, such as Durham, Cary, and Garner
Listing fee: $4,500 for up to 100 professional photos, home valuation, yard sign, lockbox, offer review, and negotiations
Smart Choice Realty earned an A+ rating from the BBB and a 4.9-star rating on Google. Past sellers commend the company for making selling a home fast, easy, and cost-effective. Many highlight significant commission savings, often thousands of dollars, while also praising the quick turnaround from listing to contract. The process is described as smooth and stress-free, thanks to the team’s guidance and support.
Website: smartpeoplelivehere.com
Phone number: 919-322-0077
Select Premium Properties
Select Premium Properties has been in the flat fee MLS business for over two decades, giving homeowners an affordable way to list their homes without paying high commissions. Each year, the company averages around 100 successful sales and rentals, proving the effectiveness of its approach.
Licensed across Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, the team provides sellers with wide regional coverage and strong market expertise. With years of experience, Select Premium Properties continues to make selling homes simpler and more cost-effective.
Service areas: Throughout North Carolina, including Raleigh, and other states, such as South Carolina and Virginia
Listing fee:$295 for a six-month listing term, lead forwarding, disclosure forms, and printable flyer
Add-ons:
- Lockbox: $75
- Blue and white for-sale sign:$20
- Full color for-sale sign: $30
- Full color sign without frame: $40
- Wooden sign post:$99
- Additional photos:$45
- Open house announcement:$20
- One-year listing term: $55
- Purchase contract review: $299
According to customer testimonials posted on the website, Select Premium Properties delivers outstanding service with the team’s professionalism and responsiveness. The website is praised for being thorough and easy to understand, clearly explaining each step of the process.
Customers note that their questions are answered almost immediately and leads are delivered promptly. Many describe their transactions as smooth and stress-free.
Website: selectpremiumproperties.com
Phone number: 910-518-9280
Homecoin.com, Raleigh
Homecoin gives homeowners a cost-effective way to market their homes through flat fee MLS listings. Properties are placed on the MLS and shared across top real estate websites, reaching a large pool of potential buyers. With several flat fee packages to choose from, sellers can stay in control of important steps like setting the price, arranging showings, and managing negotiations.
Service areas: North Carolina 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 has earned strong customer feedback, reflected in its 4.4-star Google rating. The platform is recognized for being user-friendly and offering an affordable listing service.
Sellers frequently highlight its reliability and simplicity, making it a practical choice for managing sales without an agent, even for repeat transactions. Many point to the significant savings compared to traditional methods, while others recommend it as a cost-effective and efficient way to sell a home.
Website: homecoin.com
Phone number: 888-400-2513
North Carolina Flat Fee MLS
North Carolina Flat Fee MLS, powered by By Owner Flat MLS, provides homeowners with an affordable alternative to traditional real estate commissions. It lists properties on the MLS and syndicates them to major real estate websites, ensuring broad visibility to potential buyers.
Sellers maintain control over pricing and showings, while benefiting from professional support throughout the process. With its flat fee model, North Carolina Flat Fee MLS helps clients save thousands while still accessing the tools needed for a successful sale.
Service areas: Throughout North Carolina, including Raleigh
- Silver: $299 for a six-month listing term, up to 25 listing photos, and buyer lead forwarding
- Gold: $329 for Silver inclusions and the maximum number of listing photos
- Seasonal Special: $269 for a six-month listing term, up to six listing photos, and SMS marketing
According to customer testimonials posted on the company’s website, the flat fee service is simple, affordable, and effective. Some appreciate the significant savings they received.
Others recognize the increased visibility for their listings, as the properties were on the MLS and other major real estate sites. Users describe the platform as easy to navigate and reliable, making it a highly recommended option for those selling a home without a traditional agent.
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% of the home’s sale price, 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. And with the landmark NAR settlement that changed commission rules, encouraging buyers to negotiate commissions directly with their agents, sellers can enjoy even greater savings on the overall transaction.
If you own a desirable home in a strong market, selling without a Realtor and using a flat fee MLS service can be a smart choice. Just keep in mind that going this route means handling more of the process yourself. Here are some of the key responsibilities you’ll take on
- Use market data to set a competitive selling price.
- Craft a compelling listing description.
- Manage showings and open houses.
- Address state and federal disclosures.
- Review and respond to offers, negotiate terms, and finalize the contract.
- Calculate closing costs and estimate your net proceeds.
- Oversee appraisal and inspection processes.
- Manage real estate transfer taxes.
- Gather necessary documentation.
Pros and cons of using a flat fee MLS listing service
Flat fee MLS services give sellers a way to reach more buyers without paying full agent commissions. Before jumping in, it’s worth weighing the benefits and potential drawbacks:
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:
- Cover the buyer’s agent commission to speed up a home sale, which affects your overall net proceeds.
- Handle any issues that may delay or kill the deal.
- Navigate the entire selling process without the guidance of a licensed agent.
- Put yourself at risk for liability claims.
- 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 BBB.
- 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?
In Raleigh, flat fee MLS listings are highly effective for sellers since most homebuyers search for homes online. These sites mostly pull their info from the local MLS, so your listing stays up-to-date and gets seen by several homebuyers. Buyers’ agents rely on the MLS too, making it an easy way for sellers to reach a wide, interested audience.
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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: They offer limited services for a flat rate, ranging from $3,000 to $5,000.
- Discount real estate broker: They provide reduced commission services but often still deliver essential support.
- Full-service, experienced real estate agent: They offer 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 sold for $380,000, significantly less compared to agent-assisted sales, which sold for $435,000. Thus, while you might save on upfront costs when going FSBO, 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?
With flat fee MLS listing services, sellers still need to follow local disclosure laws. In North Carolina, this includes working with a real estate attorney at closing. An attorney not only fulfills the legal requirement but also helps navigate disclosures and contracts, reducing the risk of costly issues
Here are some additional points to consider:
- Unlike traditional agents whose fees are contingent on the sale, flat fee services are paid upfront.
- Some services frequently change names, making it hard to track their performance and reliability.
- These services typically place the seller’s contact information directly in the listing, meaning you’ll be responsible for handling all inquiries and communications.
- 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 on your own can be like taking on another full-time job. Using 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 may need to cover the buyer’s agent commission, and might end up selling for less than with a traditional agent. If you want professional support and personalized guidance on your next home sale, HomeLight can connect you with a local agent who has the experience and proven results to help you succeed.
Editor’s note: This post is for educational purposes only. Links to and mentions of Raleigh 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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