HomeLight

Learn More

On listwithclever.com

Customer Rating

4.6/5 (1,178 reviews)

Listing Fee

2.5–3% (market rates)

Editor's take

Overview

Locations

If you want to quickly find a local real estate agent, HomeLight is worth trying thanks to its large agent network. But if you’re concerned about agent quality or savings, there are better options.

Pros

• You get a list of real estate agents in minutes.
• The large agent network means there’s usually an agent available near you.
• You can get matched with a cash buyer through HomeLight Simple Sale.

Cons

• There's no guarantee you’ll get a top realtor.
• There are no savings on realtor commission.
• Offers through HomeLight Simple Sale are lower than market value.

HomeLight is an online platform that offers a range of real estate services, like home listings and a home value calculator. It’s best known for matching buyers and sellers with real estate agents.

To find an agent with HomeLight, you enter some basic info about your property on the company website. Then HomeLight sends you a list of agents to choose from. The service is free to use. But if you're selling, you still have to pay traditional realtor commission, usually 5–6%.

HomeLight also offers Simple Sale, a service that matches sellers with cash buyers. This service is designed for homeowners who want a fast sale and don’t want to invest in repairs. However, the offers are lower than what you’d get selling on the open market.

HomeLight is available nationwide.

Is HomeLight right for you?

HomeLight could be right for you if you just want a fast, easy way to find a realtor. It could also be useful if you live in a small or rural area, where other companies don't have as many agents for you to choose from.

But it's not the best fit if you also want:

• A guarantee you'll work with a top realtor
• Commission savings

Any realtor can join HomeLight’s network, so you might not get the best real estate agent for your transaction. And unlike the competition, HomeLight doesn’t offer any savings.

To find a top realtor and save, try a competing service with better value. For example, Clever vets all its partner agents, many from name-brand brokerages like Keller Williams and RE/MAX. And it offers a low listing fee of 1.5%, potentially saving you thousands of dollars.

💰 Get matched with top agents near you, save thousands in realtor fees!

What is HomeLight?

HomeLight is a free online service that helps sellers and buyers find local real estate agents.

When you sign up on HomeLight’s website, you’ll get a list of local real estate agents within minutes. HomeLight bases these agent matches on factors like your location, target price range, and your desired sale timeline.

You can set up interviews, compare options, and choose the best fit. Or, if you don’t like any of its recommendations, you can walk away. Like all agent matching services, HomeLight is free, and there’s no obligation to sign with any of its agents.

In addition to its agent matching service, HomeLight has several other services for sellers and buyers, including HomeLight Simple Sale, a cash buyer program.

How does HomeLight work?

HomeLight's agent matching service is straightforward and similar for buyers and sellers:

1. On HomeLight's website, enter information about the property you want to sell or buy, such as your target price range and your timeline.
2. You instantly get a list of up to three qualified agents. You can choose to stick with these agents or request additional ones, in which case two more matches display immediately.
3. Review your agents using the "View Details" menu, which displays information including:

   • Their brokerage
   • Number of homes they’ve sold in your area
   • Years of experience
   • Total number of HomeLight clients they’ve helped buy or sell a home
   • Achievements, such as if they're top negotiators or sell quickly
   • A map of properties each agent has helped a client buy or sell in your area

4. Usually, within a few hours, a HomeLight concierge will contact you via email and phone to discuss your matches. They can also send more agent matches.
5. You can arrange to speak with any of these HomeLight partner agents by phone, email, or through HomeLight’s direct messaging platform — although chances are most of them will have already tried to contact you right after you sign up.

Additional HomeLight services

How much does HomeLight cost?

HomeLight connects you with real estate agents for free.

But you still have to cover realtor commission when your house sells, just as you would if you found your agent on your own. Realtor fees vary by market, but the nationwide total average commission rate is 5.37% of the purchase price. This includes the commission for the listing agent and the buyer's agent.

So, while HomeLight doesn’t cost you extra, it doesn’t save you money either. This is a big drawback, given that several of its competitors offer the same free agent matching service and built-in savings.

» LEARN: How to get lower realtor fees

Note that some of HomeLight’s other offerings — like HomeLight Trade-In — do require a fee.

HomeLight.com vs. top competitors

Company	Listing Fee	Customer Rating	Availability
Best overall Semya-Moya	1.5% (min. $3,000)	5/5 (2,940 reviews)	Nationwide	Learn More
Ideal Agent	2% (min. $3,000)	4.9/5 (6,254 reviews)	Nationwide	Learn More
UpNest	2.2–3% (market rates)	4.6/5 (6,641 reviews)	Nationwide	Learn More
HomeLight	2.5–3% (market rates)	4.6/5 (1,178 reviews)	Nationwide	Learn More

Best overall

Semya-Moya

Learn More

On listwithclever.com

Customer Rating

5/5 (2,940 reviews)

Listing Fee

1.5% (min. $3,000)

Editor's Take

Overview

Locations

Semya-Moya is the best option for most sellers looking for an agent. The company matches you with multiple experienced, full-service agents so you can find the right fit, and it offers a low 1.5% listing fee no matter which agent you choose.

Find top agents near you today!

Pros

• You get matched with top-producing local agents in minutes.
• You get a 1.5% listing fee (about half the usual rate).
• Clever's network of 19,000 agents offers great selection compared to similar services like Ideal Agent and UpNest.

Cons

• There’s no guarantee you’ll get matched with a specific local agent or brokerage.
• Add-ons like professional home staging and drone photography may cost extra (agents will let you know exactly what’s included during listing presentations).

Semya-Moya offers a lower commission without sacrificing quality. Through its free service, you can find top-rated agents in your area and sell for just a 1.5% listing fee (much lower than the average realtor commission rate).

How it works: You take a short online quiz (five questions) to help Clever understand your situation and preferences. Then Clever matches you with vetted agents in your market who are a good fit. If you don’t like the agents Clever recommends, you can request more matches until you find the right fit — or simply walk away.

Why it’s great: You can use Clever to compare top-producing local realtors from major brands like Compass, Century 21, and Coldwell Banker. Each realtor in Clever’s network has agreed to offer lower commission rates, which lets you focus on choosing the best agent instead of worrying about the price. You get the same savings no matter what.

Clever is available nationwide.

Good agents, but limited choice

Ideal Agent

Learn More

On listwithclever.com

Customer Rating

4.9/5 (6,254 reviews)

Listing Fee

2% (min. $3,000)

Editor's take

Overview

Locations

Ideal Agent is a solid option if you’re looking for a top agent. The company vets its realtors thoroughly, so you’ll likely get a quality agent. But you won't save as much on realtor fees as you could with other companies.

Pros

• Agents are vetted and meet strict performance criteria.
• The 2% listing fee is lower than the traditional rate.
• Customer service gets excellent reviews.

Cons

• You likely won't get to choose which agent you work with.
• There are no savings for buyers and limited savings for sellers.
• There's limited ability to manage your listing online.

Ideal Agent is a real estate company that matches buyers and sellers with real estate agents.

Compared to similar companies, Ideal Agent has some of the strictest performance criteria for the agents it lets into its network. This vetting process means you're more likely to be matched with a top agent, although it also means there are fewer agents overall to choose from.

The company also offers a discounted listing fee of 2% (min. $3,000) compared to the 2.5–3% that realtors traditionally charge.

While Ideal Agent’s primary service is agent matching, the company also has a cash buyer program. With this program, Ideal Agent solicits multiple cash offers for your home from various investors. While you’re unlikely to make as much as you would selling on the open market, a cash buyer provides the convenience of a fast closing.

Ideal Agent is available nationwide.

Good for comparing options, but limited savings

UpNest

Learn More

On listwithclever.com

Customer Rating

4.6/5 (6,641 reviews)

Listing Fee

2.2–3% (market rates)

Editor's take

Overview

Locations

UpNest lets you choose from multiple vetted agents, so there’s a good chance you’ll find a realtor that fits your needs. But it falls short on savings and customer service.

Pros

• Agents are vetted and are usually top performers.
• You get to choose from multiple agents.
• The online dashboard is easy to use.

Cons

• Realtor fees are only slightly lower than traditional rates.
• Customer service is difficult to reach.
• The quality of customer service is spotty.

UpNest is an online platform that helps home sellers and buyers find a real estate agent.

The company is unique because it claims its agents compete for your business. In theory, that should lead to lower realtor fees, but in reality, the savings are minimal at best. Each agent determines their own fees, but the typical listing fee is around 2.2%.

When you sign up for UpNest, you’ll get proposals from multiple vetted agents, usually within a day. Each proposal includes the agent's fees and services. You can request more agent matches or walk away anytime.

Note that UpNest’s customer service representatives are often difficult to reach and sometimes have a poor understanding of realtor services.

UpNest is available nationwide.

You’ll find better commission savings elsewhere

HomeLight’s biggest drawback is the lack of savings for home sellers. If you find your agent through HomeLight, expect to pay market rates for realtor commission: a 2.5–3% listing fee, plus a 2.5–3% buyer’s agent fee. Clever, Ideal Agent, and UpNest all offer savings.

Of the top alternatives, Clever offers the best rate. Sellers get pre-negotiated 1.5% listing agent fees — about half the typical rate HomeLight sellers pay. Ideal Agent's listing agent fee is 2%, and UpNest's is usually 2% or higher. That’s better than HomeLight, but still more than Clever.

Clever also offers built-in savings for home buyers with cash back after closing.

HomeLight's agent matches lag the competition

HomeLight’s fully automated matching process is fast but spotty. When our mystery shoppers requested local realtors outside of major metro areas, the suggested HomeLight agents were often from a nearby city instead of the desired area.

We recommend brands with a more personalized agent matching process. For example, Clever also uses data and automation to move quickly. But its Concierge Team reaches out before making matches. The team learns about your situation and goals, then handpicks agents for you to ensure you get the right real estate agent for your needs.

HomeLight's larger agent selection doesn’t count for much

HomeLight’s agent network is the largest of our top picks (by far). But that doesn't necessarily translate into any tangible benefits. We expected HomeLight to have better selection in less densely populated areas, but when testing this, our mystery shoppers saw no difference in agent quality between HomeLight (28k total agents), Clever (19k), and UpNest (14k).

Other brands get you more value

Our recommendation: Start with the brand that gets you the most savings (Clever), then work your way down the list to Ideal Agent and UpNest. Sign up for HomeLight only if those companies can't find you a good agent.

If you really want to try HomeLight, it's worthwhile to request agent matches from the discount brands, too. They're all free to use, and there's no obligation to list with any of the agents they send you. If a brand like Clever finds you an agent you like, you could save thousands of dollars.

Our experience with HomeLight

We didn't want to rely only on third-party HomeLight reviews. Instead, we mystery shopped HomeLight and 10 of its competitors to compare agent quality, savings, and customer experience.

Overall, we give HomeLight a rating of 2.5 stars out of 5. Here’s how our HomeLight review breaks down:

HomeLight reviews: What customers say

We dug through hundreds of HomeLight reviews to discover what customers had to say about its real estate services. Here’s what we found they liked best about their real estate journey with HomeLight and where they felt the company could do better.

What customers like about HomeLight

According to many HomeLight reviews, many customers were pleased with their agent matches. They generally found that their agents met expectations and helped make the real estate transaction easier and less stressful.

Some customers also liked how easy HomeLight’s website was to use and how they were able to easily compare agents.

What customers didn’t like about HomeLight

While most HomeLight reviews online are positive, some customers felt like HomeLight failed to match them with top real estate agents. HomeLight’s real estate agent marketplace is large. Almost any agent can join it, so it’s not surprising that some local agents failed to live up to customers’ expectations.

One of the most common complaints was about the volume of communication customers received from HomeLight and its agents. Many customers felt bombarded by emails, texts, and phone calls after signing up. Some complained about difficulties unsubscribing from HomeLight’s emails, a problem we also experienced.

Is HomeLight legitimate?

Yes, HomeLight is a legitimate company.

HomeLight real estate is the largest agent matching service in the US and a licensed brokerage in California. All agent matching services are legally required to have an active brokerage license.

How does HomeLight make money?

HomeLight is a licensed real estate brokerage that makes money through its agent matching service by charging its partner agents a referral fee. Agents compete within a large marketplace. Whenever a HomeLight agent helps a HomeLight customer finalize the sale or purchase of a home, HomeLight gets a cut of the agent’s commission.

All agent matching services make money through referral fees. It's how these companies can provide a no-cost service to buyers and sellers.

In addition to referral fees, HomeLight makes money through several other real estate service offerings, like HomeLight Simple Sale, HomeLight Home Loans, and HomeLight Trade-In.

Why do agents work with companies like HomeLight?

Top-performing real estate agents partner with (and pay) companies like HomeLight because it’s an easy, low-risk way for them to attract new business and close more deals.

While agents make less on each transaction because they pay a referral fee, they can increase their total number of transactions — and potentially make more money in the long run.

FAQ

Related reading

How to Find a Real Estate Agent That's Right for You

This guide on how to find the best real estate agent is packed with useful tips and information, based on hundreds of hours of research and expert interviews.

The Best Low Commission Realtors (2023 Broker Rankings)

Find the best low commission real estate agents and brokers, so you can sell with a full-service realtor and save thousands on commission fees!

Semya-Moya Reviews (2024): How It Works, Pricing, and Alternatives

Is Semya-Moya right for you? Learn how it works, read real customer reviews, and compare it to similar services.

The post HomeLight Reviews: Are Its Services Right for You? (2024 Update) appeared first on Semya-Moya.

If you're selling your home for sale by owner (FSBO), a key step is advertising on FSBO websites where potential buyers will see your listing.

Nearly half of all buyers (47%) start by browsing for homes on websites like Zillow and Realtor.com.[1] So when you list online, your home's visibility increases. This may lead to more showings, which gives you a greater chance of sparking interest and receiving multiple offers.

We've carefully selected the best platforms for posting your FSBO listing, including several free options. Our guide is designed to help FSBO sellers like you get maximum visibility and support at a minimal cost.

Best FSBO sites of 2024

Best free FSBO sites

👉 Jump to: Zillow | ForSaleByOwner.com | Facebook Marketplace | Craigslist

1. Zillow

Zillow and its sister site, Trulia, are two of the most popular real estate websites. You can list your house on Zillow for free, and it will automatically appear on Trulia as well. 

While Zillow isn't exclusively for FSBO listings, it provides user-friendly features for sellers to post their properties independently. The platform's design is intuitive and visually appealing, making it easy to manage your listing from any device. 

To post your FSBO listing on Zillow and Trulia, simply create a Zillow account and upload your property's photos and details, like the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and special amenities.

» MORE: Zillow Listing Fees: Free and Premium Options Explained

The downsides of listing FSBO on Zillow

In search results, Zillow displays agent listings by default and places FSBO listings under a "By owner & other" category. This separation makes FSBO listings harder for buyers to find.

Zillow also doesn't post your listing to the multiple listing service (MLS). The MLS is widely recognized as the primary platform for home sales, so if your property isn't listed on the MLS, many buyer's agents won't see it.

You can get your home on the MLS by hiring a real estate agent. Although agents charge listing fees, their expertise can often help you secure a much higher sale price. And you can still save by finding an agent through a low-commission company like Clever.

2. ForSaleByOwner.com

ForSaleByOwner.com is a popular FSBO site that claims to have seven times more traffic than its competitors. It allows free listings of residential properties, including single-family homes, condos, and townhouses. The site also offers handy tools like a home pricing calculator and access to legal forms.

However, listings on ForSaleByOwner.com don't appear on the local MLS, and they aren't syndicated to other real estate websites like Zillow and Redfin. This means your property is only visible to buyers who visit ForSaleByOwner.com.

3. Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace has become a versatile platform for selling a wide range of items, including real estate. It's a good option for FSBO sellers who want a free and widely accessible space to showcase their property.

But like most FSBO websites, Facebook Marketplace is completely DIY. You won’t get any help with photography, marketing, or closing.

You may also want to adjust your Facebook privacy settings before listing your property. This precaution ensures that potential buyers can view your listing but not your personal Facebook profile.

4. Craigslist

Craigslist isn’t as influential as it once was, but it remains one of the most visited FSBO listing sites on the web. It’s free to use and can provide decent exposure for your home, particularly in areas where Craigslist is still widely used.

However, true to Craigslist's reputation, its features are very basic. You can upload photos and write a property description, but that’s about it.

Also note that Craigslist has a reputation for attracting scammers. As a seller, you'll need to be vigilant and cautious, especially when dealing with offers that seem overly attractive or users who appear untrustworthy.

» MORE: How to list your house for sale by owner on Craigslist

Best paid FSBO websites

1. Unreal Estate

Established in 2007, Unreal Estate now operates in 33 states and Washington, DC, and provides brokerage connections in 17 other states.

The $99 Basic plan offers a 6–12 month MLS listing and 15 photos. More expensive plans include additional features like automated call forwarding, unlimited listing edits, and no cancellation fees.

One important thing to know is that the company makes money by taking 0.5% of the buyer’s agent commission.

However, Unreal Estate and Semya-Moya have partnered to get you a lower rate. You can avoid the 0.5% upcharge by using the code "Clever." List today for as low as $99.

2. Beycome

Beycome offers flat fee MLS listing services in California, the Southeast, and several other states. It has three plans, but only two seem to offer good value: the Basic Package at $99 and the Enhanced Package at $399. 

These plans have MLS access, a higher number of photos, and unlimited MLS listing changes, making them a decent choice if you want extra features at a reasonable cost. However, if you want a simple MLS listing, other options are more affordable.

We also don't recommend Beycome's Concierge plan. This option isn't a true FSBO service because it includes a dedicated agent. It also costs $599 plus 1% of the sale price, which is comparable to low commission companies that offer full service and support.

At that price, you're no longer getting the cost-saving benefits of selling FSBO and may be better off with a full-service agent.

3. Fizber

Fizber provides one free FSBO package and three paid plans for $95–295.

The free plan showcases your property only on Fizber's site, which has low traffic. For wider visibility, you'll need a higher-priced plan with MLS access.

While Fizber's pricing is similar to other FSBO websites, it's packages lack additional features like yard signs or key boxes, which can be helpful in the FSBO selling process.

» MORE: Read the full Fizber review

4. FSBO.com

FSBO.com offers two packages for FSBO sellers, but they provide limited value compared to other services. 

The $99.95 package includes a six-month listing on FSBO.com and Redfin, with unlimited photos and one video. FSBO.com is one of the few FSBO sites that feature listings on Redfin. 

The $399.95 package includes a six-month MLS listing and exposure on sites like Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com. However, the higher price doesn't offer much beyond the MLS listing, making it a costly option for the services it provides.

» MORE: Read the full FSBO.com review

5. Homecoin

Homecoin stands out for its no-frills approach to flat fee MLS listings, which is ideal for DIY sellers who don't need many additional features.

The MLS listing costs $95, and you can purchase additional services à la carte. However, these services tend to be more expensive than similar options from other companies. If you need extras like key boxes or yard signs, you might find better value with a different paid FSBO website.

» MORE: Read the full Homecoin review

6. Houzeo

Houzeo is a well-known flat fee MLS listing service that operates nationwide, with limited coverage in some states. Its four plans have state-specific pricing from $0 to $999+ and varying features. 

Each paid plan includes an MLS listing, but the value and duration depend on the price you pay. The pricier plans offer more support, reducing the DIY aspect of selling FSBO.

However, Houzeo's attractive pricing can be misleading due to additional fees. For example, its Bronze plan costs $25 for each listing change, potentially offsetting initial savings.

» MORE: Read the full Houzeo review

7. ISoldMyHouse.com

ISoldMyHouse.com provides nationwide services, including flat fee MLS listings, a cash buyer program, and connections to discount real estate agents. However, its value is questionable due to its high prices for plans and add-ons.

The plans cost $299–399 and offer limited features. Extras like a $50 lockbox significantly increase the overall price, diminishing the site's value compared to other FSBO services.

» MORE: Read the full ISoldMyHouse.com review

Are paid FSBO sites worth it?

Paying for an FSBO site can be beneficial if you get an MLS listing, since most buyers find homes through the MLS. For a modest fee, your property gets listed on the MLS and syndicated to major sites like Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com, potentially speeding up your sale.

However, if the FSBO site only circulates your listing on its platform, not the MLS, it might not be worth the investment. For more insights, learn how to find the best flat fee MLS service for your FSBO sale.

Best educational FSBO sites

👉 Jump to: Clever | Realty Times | FSBO Documents

Before you decide to sell for sale by owner, do your research to make sure it’s the right move for you.

The following websites don't offer direct listing services, but they provide valuable information and guidance to help you decide whether FSBO makes sense for your situation.

Semya-Moya

Clever stands out as a comprehensive resource for FSBO information. You can access detailed guides on everything from listing your home FSBO to essential paperwork. Key resources include:

• How to sell your house FSBO
• FSBO vs. realtor facts and statistics to know
• Zillow listing fees

Clever also offers state-specific guides for selling without a realtor, covering states like California, Massachusetts, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Texas.

If you're considering alternatives to FSBO, Clever provides insights into low-commission real estate companies and tips on negotiating realtor commission. And if you want the best sale price without full commission fees, Clever connects you with top local agents at discounted rates.

Realty Times

Realty Times is a popular real estate news and advice site featuring FSBO articles written by industry professionals.

These articles cover topics like buying FSBO properties, preparing your home for sale, and deciding if FSBO is the right path for you. However, there isn't a dedicated FSBO section, so you might have to search for relevant articles.

FSBO Documents

Dealing with paperwork is one of the biggest challenges of selling your home yourself. FSBO Documents provides an explanation of the legal documents you’ll need if you’re selling or buying a FSBO property.

The site is run by Standard Legal, a self-help legal forms software company, and you can purchase its FSBO legal forms online, including templates for purchase agreements, disclosure forms, and deeds.

» MORE: What paperwork do you need to sell FSBO?

Best specialty FSBO sites

👉 Jump to: LoopNet | LandFlip

Unique properties — like commercial real estate, vacant lots, and farms — don’t often fit on traditional FSBO websites. Fortunately, there are a handful of options tailored for specialty properties.

LoopNet

LoopNet is the leading platform for commercial property FSBO sales across the US. It's the largest commercial real estate site, attracting significant traffic from potential buyers.

The platform is user-friendly and offers digital tools to track listing performance, such as views and clicks, enabling you to optimize your listing for better results.

However, pricing for these services can be steep, with some marketing packages costing up to $2,500 per month.

» MORE: How to save on commercial real estate commission rates

LandFlip

LandFlip is an ideal choice for selling unique properties like farms, vacant lots, and ranches because it offers affordable plans tailored to niche markets.

LandFlip has a network of specialized real estate websites, each catering to specific property types:

• FarmFlip for farms
• RanchFlip for ranches
• LotFlip for vacant lots
• AuctionFlip for real estate auctions
• CommercialFlip for commercial properties

Your property will be listed on the most relevant site within the LandFlip family, ensuring it reaches the right audience.

LandFlip costs $70–300 per month, with plans varying by search exposure, photo limit, and customer support.

» MORE: 5 things to know about real estate commission on land sales

Methodology for choosing the best FSBO websites

Our selection process for the best FSBO websites in 2024 was comprehensive and data-driven. We understand that selling a home is a huge decision and that choosing the right platform to list your property can greatly impact your sale's success.

Here's how we evaluated and chose the top FSBO websites:

• Pricing structure. We examined the cost of listing on each website, considering free and paid options. We identified platforms that offer value for money, ensuring sellers get the best services for the fees they pay.
• MLS access. A crucial factor was whether the FSBO website provides access to the multiple listing service (MLS). MLS exposure is vital for reaching a broader audience because it increases the property's visibility to potential buyers and their agents.
• Service and support. We assessed the level of service and support each website offers sellers. This included the availability of customer service, ease of use of the platform, and additional services like professional photography, legal document templates, and marketing tools.
• User experience. Our key considerations included the ease of listing a property, the ease of managing the listing, and the website's overall user interface. We prioritized websites that offer a seamless, user-friendly experience.
• Visibility and reach. We analyzed the traffic and reach of each FSBO website. Higher visibility on platforms leads to more potential buyers, increasing the chances of a successful sale.
• Additional features. We looked for websites that offer extra features like home pricing calculators, access to legal forms, and syndication to other real estate websites. These features can enhance the selling experience and provide valuable resources to FSBO sellers.
• Customer reviews. We took into account real user experiences and reviews to gauge the effectiveness and reliability of each FSBO website.
• Market trends and research. We considered current real estate market trends and research to understand the effectiveness of FSBO sales and how different platforms cater to these trends.

FAQ

Related links

How to Sell Your House For Sale by Owner

Everything you need to know to sell your house by owner, including marketing, pricing, and state specific paperwork.

The Best Low Commission Realtors (2023 Broker Rankings)

Find the best low commission real estate agents and brokers, so you can sell with a full-service realtor and save thousands on commission fees!

How to Save on Realtor Commission Fees (Without Sacrificing Service)

You don't have to pay the typical 6% realtor fees. We'll show you how to save thousands on real estate commission without sacrificing the top-notch service of an experienced realtor.

The post Best For Sale By Owner (FSBO) Websites of 2024 appeared first on Semya-Moya.

Opendoor's iBuying service works best when you want to sell your house with minimal hassle. You don't have to worry about repairs or showings, you can choose your close date, and you can complete the transaction entirely online (except for an external home inspection).

But Opendoor's convenience comes at the expense of profit. The company won’t offer you as much as you could get selling on the open market with a real estate agent.

You should also take Opendoor’s initial offer with a grain of salt. Many sellers complain about the final sale price being much lower than the initial offer because of repair costs. Adding in Opendoor's 5% service fee, you may get substantially less money from Opendoor than you were hoping for.

How much are Opendoor fees?

When you sell to Opendoor, you pay a 5% service fee, plus the typical 1–3% in closing costs. Closing costs include title fees, transfer taxes, and prorated property taxes.

You also pay for any repairs that Opendoor thinks are necessary after its home inspection. Repair costs can vary widely from seller to seller. We talked to Opendoor customers who paid around 1–3%, while this Reddit user claims he was quoted $30,000 for repairs — about 5% of the $640,000 final offer.

Additional costs include charges for late checkout. If you need to stay in your house past the close date, you pay a daily rate based on your home's market rental value. Opendoor also withholds a $2,000 security deposit from your sale proceeds until you move out.

» READ: Our full review of Opendoor

Opendoor vs. realtor fees

Opendoor's 5% service fee is comparable to the 5–6% realtor commission you’d pay in a traditional home sale. However, the most important factor isn’t fees, but the overall profit you’ll get from your home sale.

You’ll usually make more money selling with a realtor than selling to Opendoor. When you list on the open market with a realtor, buyers compete for your house, which leads to a higher selling price. When you sell to Opendoor, the transaction is a lot faster, but the offer is lower than your home’s fair market value.

In one case that seems typical, real estate analyst Mike DelPrete noted that Opendoor’s initial offer was over 8% lower — or about $50,000 less — than Zillow’s estimated value of the home.

A discount realtor may be a good alternative. Opendoor’s 5% fee is often higher than the 3.5–5% that discount real estate agents charge. With a discount realtor, you can still get full service and a higher sale price, but you pay lower fees than you would with Opendoor or a full-price traditional agent.

Cost comparison: Opendoor vs. traditional realtor vs. discount broker

Here’s an example of how selling a $500,000 home to Opendoor might compare to selling with a traditional real estate agent. These figures are mostly estimates, and costs will vary for each sale.

Your profit from your home sale would be much lower with Opendoor than with a realtor. With a traditional realtor, you could get around $40,000 more. With a discount broker, the difference is up to $50,250 more.

Compare top agents in your area for free, save thousands on realtor fees.

Opendoor fees vs. competitors

Opendoor’s main competitor is Offerpad. Offerpad charges a 6% service fee compared to Opendoor's 5%. But whether you'd sell for more with Offerpad or Opendoor depends on your situation, including repair costs.

We talked to Bradley Carpenter, a seller in Kansas City, who got offers from both companies. He told us, “Offerpad's initial offer was higher, but they dropped it $40,000 after an inspection; Opendoor only came down $7,000 after a less thorough inspection.” Despite Offerpad's higher initial offer, the repair costs made Opendoor the better choice for him.

Another option for a quick cash sale is a “we buy houses” company. These companies don’t usually charge service fees, but their offers are often at least 30% lower than market value. However, “we buy houses” companies can close fast, buy distressed properties, and provide alternative financing.

For example, “we buy houses” companies are more likely than Opendoor to agree to a novation agreement. With this agreement, the buyer completes repairs while you still own your house, which improves the home’s overall value. When the home sells at a higher price, the buyer gives you an agreed-upon amount.

It's best to get offers from multiple companies before making a decision. Comparing cash buyers will help you choose the best offer, ensuring a quick sale without leaving money on the table unnecessarily.

Does Opendoor charge hidden fees?

Opendoor doesn't have hidden fees. The company prides itself on transparent pricing.

However, repair costs might be significantly higher than you anticipated — and Opendoor's final offer could be much lower than your original estimate. This situation is mentioned in several Opendoor customer complaints.

For example, Jesse Zappia told us that Opendoor’s “initial offer was somewhat closer to the 600,000 number. ... And then when they came back and gave me an offer it was $566,000. So it was a significant jump.”

Because repair costs vary so much, you should get offers from multiple cash buyers. That way, you can see which company’s offer is best and also get some negotiating leverage.

For example, when Offerpad offered Bradley Carpenter more than Opendoor, he decided to contact Opendoor. He explained, “I sent [Opendoor] the Offerpad offer, and I said, ‘Hey, Offerpad offered me $3,000 more than you. Are you guys willing to come up a little bit?’” Opendoor ultimately increased its offer, which Bradley accepted.

Bottom line: Are Opendoor's fees worth paying?

Whether Opendoor's fees are worth it depends on how much profit you're willing to sacrifice in order to avoid the traditional listing process.

Jesse Zappia, who sold his home to Opendoor in 2022, said this about the trade-off:

"We were in a position where taking ... less money was worth it for us. If you go in with that mindset, it's great. But if we were in a scenario where we weren't as timebound, I think going the traditional route is probably the way we would go, just to get the better profitability out of it."

If you're considering selling to Opendoor but worried about losing equity, you should compare multiple cash offers against a realtor's estimate of what you'd get selling as is on the open market.

In a seller's market, where there's high demand for homes, you might be able to sell without making repairs or offering concessions. In other cases, you can use an initial cash offer to negotiate a higher price with a competing buyer.

FAQ about Opendoor fees

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The post Opendoor Fees: Is the Convenience Worth the Cost? appeared first on Semya-Moya.

Mark Spain Real Estate and Opendoor are two iBuyers that make cash offers on homes. They allow you to sell quickly, often in a couple of weeks. These companies may be a good choice for sellers who don’t have time to list on the open market. Like all iBuyers, they only buy properties that are in fairly good condition, are in certain markets, and meet other specific requirements.

iBuyers used to be a good choice for selling fast at a reasonably good price. However, the real estate market has cooled over the past couple of years, and these companies aren’t paying what they used to. Opendoor, for example, is buying fewer homes and making lower offers, while Mark Spain is seemingly prioritizing listing homes on the open market instead of buying them outright.

You should look for alternatives to both companies. If you need to sell fast, your best bet is to shop around. Offers can vary significantly from one cash buyer to another, so comparing them side by side will allow you to get the best deal.

Requesting an offer from a home buying company is free and comes with no obligation to sell, so it’s in your best interests to seek multiple offers.

Mark Spain vs. Opendoor: Which is better?

Both Mark Spain and Opendoor can make a cash offer on your house. Neither will offer as much as you could get by listing it, but a cash offer is faster and more convenient for certain sellers.

However, there are important differences between these companies. Overall, we found that Mark Spain comes up short against Opendoor. Mark Spain refuses to disclose its fees, and we read numerous reviews by sellers who felt they were “baited” into requesting a cash offer, only to be pushed into using other services they didn’t ask for.

Both companies offer less than market value

Both Opendoor and Mark Spain make offers that are below market value. This is true of all iBuyers, which offer speed and convenience at the expense of a high selling price. Offers vary depending on your specific house and market, so it’s difficult to say which company’s offers are better.

However, several customers have complained about Mark Spain offering much less than other iBuyers. For example, one seller claimed that Mark Spain “offered 70k less than Offerpad.” If you're selling to a cash buyer, make sure you get multiple offers to compare.

Opendoor is more transparent about fees

Mark Spain doesn’t share information about its fees, either online or when we ask the company directly. To know its fees, you have to provide a phone number and address so an agent can contact you. Most real estate companies are more upfront about how much they charge.

Opendoor is more transparent about what it charges. Its service fee is 5%, and there's no cancellation fee. Closing costs vary, but they’re usually around 1%.

Repair costs are harder to estimate because they can vary widely (though many sellers said they were quoted around $30,000). Opendoor requires you to use its preferred contractors, which makes it difficult to know if you’re paying a fair price.

Mark Spain may push you into listing

Many reviewers claimed that Mark Spain promised to provide a guaranteed cash offer, but during the inspection, its agents pressured sellers into listing instead.

While listing with an agent on the open market isn’t a bad idea — and is usually the best way to get the most for your house — you shouldn’t feel pressured into doing it. Even if Mark Spain can't buy your house, you may find other buyers who will. Shop around to see what other companies can offer before following Mark Spain's “advice.”

Opendoor is more widely available

Opendoor serves 54 metropolitan areas across 26 states and Washington, DC. Mark Spain is a regional broker in the Southeast that serves 13 metropolitan areas in 7 states. Opendoor operates in almost every market that Mark Spain operates in, so if you're in the Southeast, you can likely choose either one.

Mark Spain vs. Opendoor: How they work

Mark Spain Real Estate and Opendoor both claim they can make a cash offer on your home if you need to sell quickly. Opendoor is an iBuyer, meaning it relies on technology to make near-instant offers and only buys properties in good condition. Mark Spain also only makes offers on properties in good condition, but it doesn’t always buy properties directly.

Instead, Mark Spain sometimes fields offers from multiple cash buyers or works on behalf of another iBuyer. In fact, in some markets, Mark Spain is the listing agent for Opendoor. So in those areas, you may get the exact same service regardless of whether you use one company or the other.

How Mark Spain works

Mark Spain Real Estate is a real estate brokerage headed by Mark Spain, a real estate agent who previously worked with Keller Williams. The brokerage was founded in Atlanta in 2016 and has grown rapidly, with offices in major cities throughout the Southeast. It’s repeatedly been named one of the fastest growing companies in America by Inc. Magazine.

Mark Spain offers a range of real estate brokerage services, primarily for sellers. These services include Guaranteed Offer, Market Listing, and Find a Home. It also offers HomeNow, a home rent and lease program.

How Opendoor works

Opendoor was founded in San Francisco in 2014. It was one of the first iBuyers, and it's become the largest iBuyer in the country.

The company has a number of options for sellers, including its standard iBuyer service (Sell to Opendoor), third-party cash buyer service (Opendoor Exclusives), and home trade-in service (Buy & Sell) for those who buy and sell with Opendoor at the same time. It also offers off-market homes for buyers and title insurance.

Offers and fees

How much do Mark Spain and Opendoor pay for homes?

Like all cash buyers, Mark Spain and Opendoor won't pay market value for your home. Opendoor used to pay close to market value, but since 2022, its offers have deteriorated. While individual offers vary, one customer noted that Opendoor offered 18% under market value for their home.

Mark Spain claims that Guaranteed Offer is “the most competitive all-cash offer in the industry,” but it provides no evidence to back this up. The customer reviews we uncovered suggest Mark Spain’s offers are also well below market value.

What fees do Mark Spain and Opendoor charge?

Mark Spain fees

It’s unclear what Mark Spain Real Estate’s fees are because it doesn’t publicly share them. We reached out to the company about its fees, but it refused to give us a direct answer.

Media outlets, including The News & Observer and the Hamilton County Herald, have tried to uncover Mark Spain’s fee structure with no success. This secretiveness is extremely rare among iBuyers and real estate brokerages. We would be wary of working with any company that isn’t upfront about what it charges.

We did find employee reviews from former Mark Spain real estate agents who claimed that their agent commission was 3%. While we were unable to independently verify that figure, if true it would be about the standard rate for a traditional listing agent. Combined with a standard buyer’s agent fee of 2.5–3%, that suggests the total commission when selling with Mark Spain is around 5.5–6%.

Finding fees for the Guaranteed Offer program is more challenging. Mark Spain is affiliated with Opendoor in some markets, which suggests that the company may simply charge the same service fee as Opendoor’s 5%. Since the company also claims to solicit offers from multiple buyers, it’s possible that fees vary depending on the buyer.

Opendoor fees

Opendoor charges a 5% service fee for its iBuyer program. Closing costs are typically around 1%, but they can vary. There's no cancellation fee if you back out of the deal before closing.

If you decide you want to stay in your house after closing, you can do so for up to 17 days with Opendoor’s extended stay program. However, you'll be charged a daily rate in line with your home's rental value in your market.

Repairs can be especially costly when selling to Opendoor, and they could lower your initial offer by tens of thousands of dollars. Unfortunately, they're impossible to predict.

Opendoor will quote you a fee for repairs, which will be deducted at closing. You can walk away from Opendoor’s offer once you get a repair quote, but if you move ahead, you have to use Opendoor’s preferred contractors.

Customer reviews

Mark Spain reviews

Mark Spain reviews online are generally good, with a 4.3/5 based on 546 reviews.

However, most of those reviews are from customers who listed with Mark Spain on the open market, not those who used the Guaranteed Offer program. In fact, we found that reviewers who tried to use the Guaranteed Offer program were much more likely to have had a negative experience.

❌ Many Guaranteed Offers customers are pressured into listing

Many customers who contacted Mark Spain for its Guaranteed Offer program claimed they never received a cash offer and were pressured into listing instead.

One customer said, “This company was a nightmare. My husband and I reached out to them due to offering a guaranteed cash offer. We needed to sell and relocate quickly for work. Never got a cash offer. We were coaxed into putting the house on the market.”

In the past couple of years, many iBuyers have been struggling. So it wouldn’t surprise us if Mark Spain is pulling back on its Guaranteed Offer program, at least in markets where it may no longer be profitable.

❌ Cash offers are much less than market value

While Mark Spain claims that its offers are “the most competitive” in the industry, we found customers who felt differently.

As this reviewer said, “MS does not offer the cash themselves. They have 'Investors' who will gladly take your property and in my case, $120,000 less than the asking price.”

iBuyers and cash buyers almost always offer less than market value in exchange for the convenience of a quick sale. But you should still compare all your options before choosing Mark Spain. Even if you decide that selling to a cash buyer is the best option for you, getting offers from multiple investors ensures you’re not leaving money on the table.

✅ Many customers praise the quality of Mark Spain agents

While we had trouble finding positive reviews of Mark Spain’s Guaranteed Offer program, there were lots of positive reviews for individual agents.

For example, this customer’s review was typical of many: “Mark Spain sent a great agent ... to us, and we could not have been happier. He spent a lot of time with us and answered all of our questions. He helped us pick a great price and we got more than we even expected.”

Agent quality is one of the most important factors when buying or selling a house. Interview multiple agents before choosing one. The quality of your realtor is more important than the brand they work for. Their local knowledge and experience go a long way toward helping you meet your real estate goals.

Opendoor reviews

Opendoor reviews are good overall, although recent ones tend to be more negative.

This trend is likely a reflection of a shift in Opendoor’s business strategy in the face of higher interest rates and a cooling housing market. The company is making fewer offers than it used to, and the quality of the offers it does make has declined, which has affected the overall quality of Opendoor for customers.

❌ Buyers complain of bad repair jobs

Many reviews said that Opendoor’s repair jobs left a lot to be desired.

This reviewer’s complaint was fairly typical: “I was told by the realtor that opendoor recently painted the home and put down new floors but once the sale was completed and I moved in noticed the tiles are peel and stick and the paint job is the worst I've ever seen. I don't know what paint was used to paint the interior of the home but it's clearly the cheapest paint they could find.”

If you’re buying a home from Opendoor, look out for hasty repairs or deeper problems that only have a cosmetic fix. We suggest viewing Opendoor homes in person and with your own agent, who can better spot potential issues with the house.

❌ Opendoor’s final offer is often significantly reduced from its initial offer

Many sellers accused Opendoor of making them highly attractive initial offers, only to lower them by tens of thousands (or even more) after an initial inspection.

As one customer said, “They first offered a decent offer, then after they come, they lower the offer. Then add a huge amount for repairs which were not needed.”

If you get an offer from Opendoor, know that it could be significantly reduced. You have no obligation to accept an offer.

✅ Selling to Opendoor is usually easy and hassle-free

Opendoor gets high marks for its ease of use and customer support.

This customer said, “Opendoor made it very easy to show my home, proceed through closing, and sell my home with minimal effort. They were extremely professional and I felt they were by my side every step of the way. Anytime I had questions, I knew I could call and get answers.”

The main advantage of selling to an iBuyer like Opendoor is convenience. Generally, sellers who sold directly to Opendoor were happy with their experience and relieved that they were able to close so quickly. While such convenience does come at the expense of a lower offer, it may still be the best option for you if you need to sell fast.

Availability

Where does Mark Spain operate?

Mark Spain Real Estate operates in major cities, primarily in the Southeast. It has expanded rapidly from its home base in Alpharetta, Georgia, and currently operates in the following locations:

• Alabama: Birmingham
• Florida: Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa
• Georgia: Athens, Atlanta
• North Carolina: Charlotte, Greensboro, Raleigh
• South Carolina: Greenville
• Tennessee: Chattanooga, Nashville
• Texas: Dallas–Fort Worth

Some services may not be available in all locations. For example, online reviews indicate that Mark Spain prefers to list homes instead of making cash offers in some areas.

What types of homes does Mark Spain purchase?

Mark Spain has the following eligibility criteria for its Guaranteed Offer purchases:

• Single-family homes
• Built after 1950
• Valued between $50,000 and $1.5 million
• Owner-occupied or vacant
• Non-distressed
• Not bank-owned
• Not in or near a flood zone
• No significant foundational issues
• No unpermitted additions

These are the minimum purchase criteria. Even if your home meets them, there’s no guarantee that Mark Spain will make a cash offer on your home.

Where does Opendoor operate?

Opendoor operates in 54 metropolitan areas in 26 states and Washington, DC. Not all services, such as List with Opendoor, are available in all markets.

Opendoor expanded rapidly during the housing boom that followed the COVID-19 pandemic, but growth has slowed after peaking in 2022. However, it has announced that it plans to begin expanding again in 2023.

What types of homes does Opendoor purchase?

Opendoor generally only purchases properties that meet the following criteria:

• Single-family houses and townhomes (condos and duplexes in some areas)
• Built after 1930
• Valued under $1.4 million (usually $100,000–600,000)
• Has clear ownership
• Owner-occupied or vacant
• Not in foreclosure
• Not a short sale
• No damage from fires, floods, or natural disasters
• No septic systems
• No unpermitted additions
• Not in a flood zone
• No dated building materials
• No significant structural or foundational issues

Opendoor’s purchase criteria don't guarantee an offer. In fact, because of higher interest rates and a tepid housing market, Opendoor has significantly pulled back from making cash offers in many areas.

Alternatives to using Mark Spain or Opendoor

Sell to another cash home buyer

Selling to Mark Spain or Opendoor isn't the only way to sell your house fast for cash. You can also sell to another company that makes guaranteed cash offers. All of these companies can buy your house very quickly, usually within weeks.

Some cash buyers, like We Buy Ugly Houses, have less stringent purchasing criteria than Mark Spain and Opendoor. They may be a better option if you have a hard-to-sell home, such as a distressed property or one in foreclosure.

Offers can vary a lot from one cash buyer to another. This is why you should shop around and why Clever Offers is the best choice in most cases.

Clever Offers doesn’t buy your house directly. Instead, it solicits offers from multiple buyers on your behalf. You can compare each offer and choose the best deal. Plus, a real estate agent will let you know what your home could get on the open market, so you can better negotiate with buyers.

Top companies for guaranteed cash offers

Company	Clever Rating	Customer Rating	Service Fee	Time to Close
Best overall Clever Offers	4.8	5/5 (2,950 reviews)	None	Varies by offer type	Learn More On listwithclever.com
Offerpad	4	4/5 (2,706 reviews)	5%	8–90 days (flexible)	Learn More On listwithclever.com
We Buy Ugly Houses	2.1	4.4/5 (1,356 reviews)	None	3 weeks	Learn More On listwithclever.com

List on the MLS and use a cash offer as backup

Cash buyers and iBuyers provide speed and convenience, but even the best buyers offer less than you'd get on the open market.

Unless you need to sell right away, you should try to list your house on the MLS with a real estate agent. Many agents have strategies for selling on a tight timeline and may even already know buyers who are looking for a particular type of property.

For added security, you can use a cash offer as a backup. As Barry Richards, Principal Broker at EXIT Realty Garden Gate Team in Springfield, Tennessee, says: “You're going to get the most money when you have people compete with each other, and that's going to happen when you list on the MLS. But you can use that iBuyer's offer as a baseline.”

We suggest finding an agent who understands that you need to sell fast, so the listing agreement can include a termination date that’s sooner than normal. If they can’t sell by that date, you can then sell to a cash buyer instead.

The post Mark Spain vs. Opendoor: Which Is Better? appeared first on Semya-Moya.

Opendoor customer reviews | Fees | Selling to Opendoor | Buying from Opendoor | Best alternatives to Opendoor

What do you get with Opendoor?

When you want to avoid the hassle of a traditional listing, Opendoor offers a quick and convenient alternative. The company can make an instant ballpark offer and close on your timeline — no need for repairs, showings, detailed inspections, or lengthy negotiations.

However, Opendoor pays less than market value for homes, and the latest data suggests its offer amounts are declining to well below what they were a couple of years ago.[3]

Opendoor also charges a 5% service fee, plus repair and closing costs. Real estate agents also typically charge a 5–6% commission, but you'll usually receive higher offers and have more control over repair costs.

Customer reviews for Opendoor are generally positive. The company has a weighted average rating of 4.2/5 across 3,501 reviews on Trustpilot, Reviews.io, and the Better Business Bureau. But negative Opendoor reviews mention high repair costs, which can lower the final profit on your sale. And some buyers report problems with repair quality and closing delays.

Should you use Opendoor?

If you're looking for a quick, hassle-free sale with a legitimate real estate company, Opendoor offers some definite benefits:

• Speed. You'll receive an offer within 24 hours and you can close within a couple weeks if needed.
• Convenience. Opendoor will take care of repairs, and you can skip the hassle of showings and negotiations.
• Flexibility. You can choose and modify your closing date without penalty.

However, there are a couple of drawbacks to keep in mind:

• You'll sell for less than market value. Recent Opendoor offers have been below market value and tend to be dramatically lowered after the home inspection, when repair costs are assessed.
• Only certain homes qualify. Opendoor generally only buys single-family homes and townhomes, valued at $100,000–600,000. It currently makes offers in about 50 cities in the U.S.

Before you accept an offer from Opendoor, we highly recommend comparing it to offers from a few other cash buyers. You should also have a good idea of what your home could sell for 'as is' through a traditional listing. That way, you can make an informed decision and possibly even generate some competition among buyers, upping the potential sale price even without making repairs.

What is Opendoor?

Opendoor is an iBuyer — a real estate company that buys houses for cash and then resells them on the open market.

Opendoor operates in over 50 cities across the country, and it buys more single-family houses than any other iBuyer. As with most iBuyers, Opendoor's offers are designed to be lower than actual market value.

How does Opendoor work for sellers?

Selling your house directly to Opendoor is usually a simple process. Here’s how it works.

1. Request an Opendoor preliminary offer

To get an Opendoor preliminary offer, you fill out an online form with basic details about your property. If your home is eligible, you receive an initial cash offer, usually within 24 hours.

2. Schedule an inspection

Your final offer is contingent on a home inspection, which you schedule after receiving your preliminary offer. The inspection's thoroughness can vary, but several sellers told us the in-person inspection was surprisingly quick.

For example, Bradley Carpenter only had to submit photos of the rooms of his house. He said, “They don't do an interior inspection. They just sent these three guys out and they just walked around the house, basically an exterior inspection.”

That said, Opendoor has gotten pickier about which properties it buys, so it's possible that the home inspection will be more thorough.

3. Sign the purchase agreement and choose a close date

After the inspection, you receive your final cash offer. This offer accounts for any necessary repairs, which vary but can be tens of thousands of dollars. You can walk away without penalty if you don’t think the offer is a fair price.

If you sign the purchase agreement, you get to choose your closing date. Opendoor also lets you change your closing date as long as it’s not within seven days. Opendoor generally uses its own title insurance company, which requests documents from you via email.

You can also stay in the home for up to 17 days after closing using Late Checkout. Opendoor charges around $100–400 per day and asks for a $2,000 security deposit.

Verify the Late Checkout fees beforehand. We talked to one seller who said Opendoor allowed him to stay for seven days after closing for free.

4. Close and get paid

On your closing date, you follow instructions on the Opendoor app. The instructions include uploading photos of your property on the day you move out. If you paid for Late Checkout, Opendoor returns your security deposit to your account shortly after closing. It deposits the funds from the sale into your account within a few days.

Opendoor preliminary offer vs. final offer

Keep in mind that a preliminary Opendoor offer is almost always higher than the final offer, so it's best to take it with a grain of salt. That's because the "instant" cash offer is an estimate based on information you provide Opendoor about your home's size, age, and features. It doesn't account for the actual condition of your home.

Jesse Zappia of Charlotte, North Carolina, sold his home to Opendoor in 2022. He recalls a nearly $40,000 difference between Opendoor's preliminary offer and final offer price: “Their initial offer was somewhat closer to the $600,000 number. And then when they came back and gave me a final offer, it was, I think, $560,000 or something. So it was a significant jump.”

Opendoor fees

Opendoor fees include a 5% service charge. But you also need to pay for repairs and closing costs, which can both vary substantially. Closing costs are generally around 1–3%, while repair costs start at 1–2%.

Several Opendoor reviews complain about repair costs being tens of thousands of dollars, substantially lowering the final offer.

For Bradley Carpenter, who sold his home to Opendoor in 2022, the company's repair fees were about $7,000 — just over 3% of the offer price.

However, Carpenter negotiated by showing Opendoor a competing offer from Offerpad. He said, “I sent [Opendoor] the Offerpad offer, and I said, ‘Hey, Offerpad offered me $3,000 more than you. Are you guys willing to come up a little bit?’ As a result, Opendoor reduced their bill for repair fees by $3,000."

If repair costs seem high to you, you can try to negotiate or reject the offer without penalty.

What kinds of homes does Opendoor buy?

Opendoor has high standards for the homes it buys. Your property needs to be:

• In fairly good condition
• A single-family home or townhome (condos and duplexes are accepted in some areas)
• Constructed after 1930
• Worth under $1.4 million (ideally $100,000–600,000)
• With clear ownership
• Owner-occupied or vacant at close

Distressed or hard-to-sell properties tend to not qualify. For example, Opendoor doesn't purchases properties that:

• Are in foreclosure or short sale
• Are damaged by fires, floods, or natural disasters
• Use septic systems
• Contain unpermitted additions
• Are in a flood zone
• Contain dated building materials
• Have significant structural or foundational issues

Even if your property meets Opendoor’s criteria, there’s no guarantee the company will make a cash offer. Other factors, like local market conditions, also determine whether Opendoor will buy your house.

Opendoor’s cancellation policy

According to Opendoor's website, you can cancel your contract at any time before closing.

There's no penalty for canceling the sale. Opendoor's main competitor, Offerpad, charges a 1% cancellation fee.

How does Opendoor work for buyers?

Buying from Opendoor is similar to buying the traditional way. Here’s how it works.

1. Search for properties online

You can search for homes to buy through Opendoor’s website. By default, Opendoor lists all homes for sale on the local MLS. If you want to see only homes owned by Opendoor, go to the More Filters menu and check the box “Opendoor homes only.”

2. Get pre-approved for a mortgage

You need to get pre-approved for a mortgage before you can tour Opendoor-owned homes. Opendoor is partners with a mortgage provider called Lower. While Opendoor may recommend working with Lower, you have no obligation to do so. Shop around to make sure you get the best mortgage deal.

3. Tour a house with the Opendoor app

When you find a home you like, you can schedule a tour. You can self-tour most Opendoor-owned homes via the Opendoor app. Just choose a time that works best for you and tour without a real estate agent. Homes that Opendoor doesn't own typically require an agent to be present during the tour.

4. Make an offer

To make an offer on an Opendoor house, you can use your own agent. Opendoor often lists two prices on its homes — one if you make an offer with your real estate agent and a lower one if you buy "directly" from Opendoor. The buy direct option gives you almost no room to negotiate, which is why the price is lower.

However, even if you make an offer with an agent, don’t expect Opendoor to negotiate much on its price.

Barry Richards, Principal Broker at EXIT Realty Garden Gate Team in Springfield, Tennessee, told us that Opendoor tends to price homes high and wait until someone is willing to meet that price. He said, “They don't tend to negotiate much on whatever current price they have.”

Opendoor may recommend you use an Opendoor agent if you don't already have a realtor. You have no obligation to do so, and you can proceed with or without your own realtor.

5. Schedule an inspection and close

If Opendoor accepts your offer, you need to schedule an inspection and negotiate any repairs and closing costs. Unfortunately, Opendoor homes sometimes have rushed repair work, so make sure you get a thorough inspection.

After you sign the agreement and finalize the inspection, you can choose your close date. The entire buying process typically takes 14–45 days.

Other Opendoor services

Aside from instant cash offers, other Opendoor services include title insurance and financial services through its partnership with Lower. Because of market conditions, a few Opendoor were discontinued, such as Opendoor Home Loans.

Opendoor Buy & Sell

Opendoor Buy & Sell (formerly Opendoor Complete) allows you to coordinate selling your current home and buying a new one. That way, you can avoid multiple moves, mortgages, and closing dates. You sell your home directly to Opendoor, use the company's cash to make an offer on a new home, and coordinate closing dates.

Opendoor Title

In 2019, Opendoor acquired OS National, a national title insurance company.[5]

As a result, Opendoor can now offer title insurance and escrow services to customers internally through Opendoor Title.

Refinancing with Lower

Opendoor is partners with Lower, a financial technology platform, to help customers save money when refinancing their mortgage.

Opendoor reviews from real customers

The majority of Opendoor reviews from customers are positive, with a weighted average rating of 4.2/5 across 3,501 reviews.

What customers like about Opendoor

Positive Opendoor reviews focus on:

• Fast, seamless transactions
• Done-for-you selling experiences on the customer's timeline

Positive Opendoor reviews tend to focus on the fast, convenient service. Sellers often appreciated Opendoor’s convenience — even if it meant a lower sale price — because they didn’t have time to list their home and wanted to choose their closing date.

For example, this seller said: “I was working a full-time job and building a new home (personally). I did not have time for a real estate company and dealing with an agent, showings, and all the things that go into that. Opendoor made it very easy to show my home, proceed through closing, and sell my home with minimal effort.”

Other positive Opendoor reviews say that customer service was responsive and quickly addressed any issues.

For example, this seller appreciated that “everyone was very professional and was there whenever I needed any assistance.” Another said, “My contact was amazing and very communicative. Professional and no-pressure style.”

Common complaints about Opendoor

Negative Opendoor reviews focus on:

• Inflated repair costs
• Final offers that were much lower than the initial estimates
• The inability to negotiate Opendoor's offer price
• Shoddy repairs on homes Opendoor bought and sold

Negative Opendoor reviews have increased since 2022. This trend likely reflects Opendoor making lower offers and being more selective about what properties it buys than it used to.

Many Opendoor reviews from sellers mention final offers being well below initial offers. For example, this reviewer said, “I was given an initial quote that was around market value. Went through all the steps and when the final offer came in it was over $100,000 less than the initial amount.”

Opendoor reviews from buyers focus on the lack of price negotiation and low-quality repairs.

For example, this buyer claimed, “After [Opendoor was] refusing to negotiate on price and not disclosing any issues on the house, we paid near the top of the appraised value for a house from the 70's and so far it's ended up having extensive severe termite damage, live termites, leaky pipes, and poorly installed new flooring that isn't level and is breaking apart.”

If you're viewing an Opendoor property, bring a real estate agent who can help you spot potential problems, and get a thorough home inspection before closing.

Top Opendoor alternatives

Sell to another cash buyer

Opendoor isn’t the only option if you want a quick cash offer. You can also get offers from other local investors, another iBuyer like Offerpad, or a "we buy houses" company.

Company	Clever Rating	Best for	Service Fee	Time to Close
Best overall Clever Offers	4.8	Comparing multiple offers	None	Varies by offer type	Learn More On listwithclever.com
Offerpad	4	Convenience over sale price	5%	8–90 days (flexible)	Learn More On listwithclever.com
We Buy Houses	2	Hard-to-sell homes	None	7–14 days	Learn More On listwithclever.com

Clever Offers

Clever Offers is a free service that helps you quickly compare offers from reputable cash buyers in your area, including iBuyers like Opendoor.

When you contact Clever, a member of its team (called a Concierge) will ask you about your priorities. Then they'll connect you with multiple cash buyers — including iBuyers like Offerpad and Opendoor — to place offers on your home.

In addition to creating healthy competition among buyers, Clever Offers can introduce you to custom solutions — like novation agreements or seller financing — that may net you more money while still offering the hands-off convenience of a cash home sale.

A Clever Concierge will walk you through your options and answer all your questions. You'll also get a professional home valuation, so you can compare cash offers to your home’s market value.

» MORE: Get up to 10 competing cash offers — no added fees or commissions

Offerpad

Offerpad is the second largest nationwide iBuyer and Opendoor’s main competitor. Like Opendoor, it provides cash offers within a few days and can close quickly. It also has similarly strict criteria for the properties it buys, avoiding homes in poor condition.

Offerpad’s 6% service fee is slightly higher than Opendoor’s. And unlike Opendoor, Offerpad charges a 1% cancellation fee if you back out after accepting its cash offer. However, customer reviews suggest that Offerpad may be more open to negotiation.

While iBuyers offer a convenient selling process, you won’t get as much money for your home as you would selling with an agent.

» MORE: Offerpad Reviews: Everything You Need to Know

‘We buy houses’ companies

"We Buy Houses" Companies also make quick cash offers. They may be a good option if you need to sell quickly and have a home in poor condition.

Unlike iBuyers, these companies typically want to buy fixer-uppers at a bargain. And they often pay no more than 70% of what they expect to net after fixing and flipping a home.

» MORE: Need a Cash Offer? 10 Companies That Pay Cash for Houses

List with a real estate agent

While real estate agents can’t guarantee a fast sale, they can create a strategy to sell on your timeline. And selling with a realtor is usually the best option if you want to maximize your profit.

Agents can get you more money for your home by creating competition among multiple buyers. Also, agents have an incentive to get the most money for your home, since the more you make, the more commission they earn.

A traditional real estate agent charges 2.5–3% in commission, but you can find full-service agents who charge a lower listing fee, around 1.5–2%. That’s lower than Opendoor’s service fee.

We recommend interviewing multiple agents before you choose one.

» MORE: The Best Low Commission Realtors and Brokers

How Opendoor makes money

The Opendoor business model is to buy houses and then resell them on the open market for a profit.

Opendoor used to buy houses close to market value. But now its offers are well below market value, according to data from real estate analyst Mike DelPrete. That means it makes a greater profit on each resale.

Opendoor also makes money with its 5% service fee. The company bases this charge on how long they expect it will take to sell the home on the open real estate market. Part of the fees go to cover costs of holding the home, like taxes, utilities, and maintenance.

Opendoor lays out their calculations for your home value and service charge for each offer in a report. The report details the price of comparable homes that have sold recently in your neighborhood. It also accounts for unique aspects of your home that could affect value, such as a finished basement, proximity to quality schools, and walkability to shopping or public transit.

The home assessment also includes repairs needed before Opendoor sells the house, and how the costs of these repairs will affect your home's sale price.

» MORE: Is Opendoor worth it?

Opendoor locations

Opendoor is currently active in these markets across the country:

• Alabama: Birmingham
• Arizona: Phoenix, Prescott, Tucson
• California: Los Angeles, Riverside, Sacramento, San Diego, San Francisco Bay Area
• Colorado: Colorado Springs, Denver, Northern Colorado
• Florida: Jacksonville, Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Southwest Florida
• Georgia: Atlanta
• Idaho: Boise
• Indiana: Indianapolis
• Massachusetts: Boston
• Michigan: Detroit
• Minnesota: Minneapolis–St. Paul
• Missouri: Kansas City, St. Louis
• Nevada: Las Vegas, Reno
• New Mexico: Albuquerque
• New York: Long Island, Lower Hudson Valley
• New Jersey: Various counties
• North Carolina: Ashville, Charlotte, Greensboro–Winston, Raleigh–Durham
• Ohio: Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati
• Oklahoma: Oklahoma City
• Oregon: Portland
• South Carolina: Charleston, Columbia, Greenville
• Tennessee: Chattanooga, Knoxville, Nashville
• Texas: Austin, Corpus Christi, Dallas–Fort Worth, Houston, Killeen, San Antonio
• Utah: Salt Lake City
• Washington, DC

FAQ

Contact Opendoor

Related reading

Is Opendoor Worth It (And Does It Pay a Fair Price)?

Due to their 5% service fee and lower-than-market offers, Opendoor may not be worth it for all home sellers. However, sellers who prioritize speed and convenience might still be interested in the service.

Opendoor Fees: Is the Convenience Worth the Cost?

Opendoor’s service fee is 5%, and its commission rate is 5%. But there might be other costs that customers need to consider. Find out all the costs and how Opendoor fees compare to realtor fees.

The Top 6 iBuyer Companies to Buy Your Home

Find out which iBuyer companies offer the best combination of value and convenience when you're ready to sell your house.

The 20 Best House Buying Websites in 2023

We've compiled a list of the best house buying websites so you can quickly find ALL the properties for sale in your area. Jumpstart your home hunting journey today!

The post Opendoor Reviews: Fees, Repair costs, and Common Complaints appeared first on Semya-Moya.

Semya-Moya and Redfin both offer discounted listing fees of just 1.5% compared to the traditional 3%. On a $500,000 home sale, that lower rate could save you $7,500 in commission!

However, Clever and Redfin have important differences. Clever lets you compare multiple top agents, many from trusted brokerages like Keller Williams and RE/MAX. Redfin automatically pairs you with the lead agent in your area instead of letting you choose your own.

Clever and Redfin also differ in their customer service, how they create savings, and the level of hands-on service their realtors provide.

Redfin may be better if you’re comfortable getting less personalized service and plan to buy and sell with the same brokerage. Clever is your best choice if you want a top local agent who offers hands-on support, while also saving you thousands in commission.

» SAVE: Compare top local agents, save thousands on commission

Semya-Moya vs. Redfin

Service models

Clever and Redfin offer full service at discounted commission rates, but each company delivers those services differently.

Redfin employs salaried realtors who are part of an in-house team, and the quality of its agents varies. When you work with Redfin, you interact with various members of the Redfin team, not just your assigned agent. The company also relies more on technology, which can lead to a higher risk of miscommunication and errors.

Clever follows a model more similar to the traditional approach. Clever’s agents are independent realtors, often from trusted brands like Berkshire Hathaway and RE/MAX, who partner with Clever. You receive the same level of service as you would with one of these traditional brokerages, but at a lower cost.

Unlike Redfin, Clever vets all its agents with strict performance criteria and lets you choose your agent. And its Concierge team supports you throughout the transaction.

How Clever works

Clever matches customers with realtors and other real estate services depending on their needs. Its main products include an agent matching service for sellers and buyers and Clever Offers, which helps sellers get cash offers.

How Redfin works

Redfin is a real estate brokerage that pairs buyers and sellers with agents. It also offers mortgages and services for renters and landlords.

Fees and savings

Clever and Redfin have similar savings. Each discount brokerage charges a 1.5% listing fee for sellers. However, Redfin's minimum fee varies by location, so sellers won’t always pay the same price with Redfin as they would with Clever.

Both companies also offer savings for buyers. Clever’s buyer savings are for all eligible buyers, but Redfin’s are only for those who also sell with Redfin.

Clever fees and savings

Clever’s listing fee is 1.5% for sellers, which is one of the lowest rates in the industry.

On a $500,000 home sale, you’d pay a $7,500 listing fee with Clever compared to the $15,000 you’d pay with a traditional 3% realtor. That means you'd save $7,500!

The listing fee has a minimum of $3,000, which only kicks in if your house sells for less than $200,000. You also need to offer a buyer’s agent commission, which is typically 2–3%.

Clever also offers savings for eligible buyers. With Clever Cash Back, you get $500 after closing if you buy and sell with Clever or $250 if you only buy. Unlike the buyer rebates some real estate companies offer, cash back isn’t subject to lender approval, is guaranteed in full, and can be spent however you like.

Redfin fees and savings

Like Clever, Redfin charges sellers a discounted listing fee of 1.5%.

However, Redfin has a minimum fee that varies a lot depending on where you’re selling. For example, the minimum fee in Nashville is $3,200, but in San Francisco, it’s $7,000. You’d need to sell in San Francisco for about $470,000 or more to avoid the minimum fee.

And unlike Clever, Redfin increases your listing fee by 1% if the buyer doesn’t have an agent. While most buyers have agents, this potential cost is something to be aware of. It would wipe out the discount you’d otherwise get by working with Redfin. If the buyer does have an agent, you need to offer a 2–3% buyer’s agent commission.

You get the most savings with Redfin if you buy and sell with the company within one year. In that case, you get a check worth 0.5% of your home’s sale price after you close on your new home. That lowers your effective listing fee to 1%.

Redfin also offers eligible buyers 0.25% off the standard mortgage rate through its in-house home loan provider, Bay Equity. However, not everyone is eligible, and the discount is subject to borrower approval. Even if you're eligible for the discount, we recommend shopping around to see if other lenders offer better rates.

Agent quality

Clever and Redfin agents operate very differently from one another, including in how they deliver services and how much work they take on. Here are some of the biggest differences and the effect they have on agent quality.

Clever agents are incentivized to sell for more

Redfin agents are employed by Redfin, and they make a salary regardless of whether they finalize your transaction. While Redfin’s agents do get performance bonuses, being salaried may make them less incentivized to get you the best deal or close quickly.

The agents you find through Clever are independent of Clever. They’re traditional agents, often working at trusted brokerages like Keller Williams and Berkshire Hathaway. They only get paid when the deal closes. By working entirely on commission, Clever’s Partner Agents have more incentive to sell faster and for more.

Clever and Redfin have different vetting standards

Redfin does relatively little to vet its agents. And because Redfin’s agents are salaried, the company tends to attract newer agents who want more experience with guaranteed pay.

In contrast, Clever agents must have five or more years of real estate experience, great customer reviews, and a proven track record of success when they join the network. They must also maintain strict performance standards when working with Clever customers. Clever removes agents from its network who don't meet its standards.

You get more hands-on service with Clever

Clever agents tend to offer much more hands-on support than Redfin agents. Clever partner agents often work at name-brand brokerages, so you get the same support as you would with a traditional realtor you found on your own.

Redfin agents take on a lot more clients, which means you get less personalized service. The agents rely more heavily on technology and support staff. You’ll likely communicate with several members of the Redfin team at different stages of your transaction instead of just your agent. This can lead to miscommunication and make the process feel impersonal.

Clever lets you compare agents, while Redfin assigns you one

When you choose an agent, it’s important to find one who has a successful track record and who's a good personal fit. You should compare and interview multiple agents to find the best match.

With Clever, you get to choose between 2–3 vetted agents, and you can request even more if you'd like. You have no obligation to work with any of the agents Clever recommends.

Redfin doesn’t let you choose which agent you work with. You could get a great agent, but you also risk getting an agent who isn’t right for your situation.

Customer reviews

Clever reviews

Clever has excellent online reviews, with a 5/5 rating based on 2,735 reviews. This rating indicates that the vast majority of Clever customers are happy with their experience. Customers are especially pleased with the agent quality and savings.

Agent quality is consistently top-notch

The majority of positive Clever reviews are about how good the agents were. Customers routinely praised Clever’s partner agents for their professionalism and work ethic.

For example, this customer said:

"[My agent was] very experienced professional. Offered advice that produced results. Her knowledge and suggestions enabled me to reap every possible dollar when selling my home. She was very knowledgeable and honest and produced fast results."

A high-quality agent can give you a better chance of selling or buying at a price that works for you. And the entire process is less stressful when you know you have an experienced professional representing you.

Savings don’t come at the expense of quality

Many Clever customers were happy they saved money on real estate commission. Reviewers especially appreciated that the savings didn't come at the expense of quality.

For example, this customer said:

“Excellent service was provided even though the listing was 1/2 price. [Our realtor] listened to our needs and provided outstanding service. She was very responsive to any inquiry we had. Would not have any issue if I had paid a full listing price.”

Unlike Redfin, Clever partners with established realtors, many from name-brand brokerages. This process ensures you get a traditional real estate agent who provides full service — just at a much lower rate.

Customer service is quick and helpful

Several customers appreciated that Clever stayed in touch after matching them with an agent. The Clever team often went above and beyond to make sure clients were happy with their agent throughout the transaction.

For example, one customer had a disagreement with his realtor and contacted Clever. The company promptly contacted the agent to rectify the situation.

As this customer said:

“We are extremely grateful and appreciative of the time and energy that Clever and their team took to make this situation right! They advocated on our behalf and got it cleared up.”

Redfin reviews

Redfin reviews online are mixed, with an overall rating of 3.8/5 based on 425 reviews.

The company doesn't have many recent reviews on third-party websites, and the handful we found are overwhelmingly negative. In fact, we had trouble finding more than a few good reviews that weren’t more than two years old.

Most of Redfin’s recent positive reviews are on its website. As this customer said, “I have tried to post the review on Redfin's website since last fall but they won't let me because they know it is very negative.” We suggest relying on third-party reviews when possible.

Agents aren’t always motivated

Redfin agents get paid a salary instead of commission, which means some of them might not work as hard to sell your home. A realtor who depends on commission has a much bigger incentive to help you quickly complete your transaction and sell for the best price.

As this customer said:

“Redfin agents are not incentivized to really work to sell your home or maximize your potential proceeds. ... You have to work much harder to bring a buyer because the Redfin team does near to zero.”

Some customers complain about agent mistakes

Redfin agents handle a lot more clients than traditional agents. They also work with a team, so you may interact with different Redfin members at various stages of your transaction. Both of these factors increase the chances of errors and miscommunication.

For example, this reviewer said:

“[The] Redfin real estate agent ... whom we hired to sell our house sabotaged us by giving us bad advice, by not responding to interested buyers' agents, doing zero marketing, taking absolutely no initiative and being extremely unresponsive to us.”

Other reviews complained about agents forgetting to relay messages from buyers or making mistakes with paperwork.

Some Redfin agents get good reviews

Some Redfin agents are genuinely helpful and work hard to get the best outcomes for their clients.

This customer had a great experience:

"I bought with Redfin and had a great experience working with my broker ... and her team of agents — they were always willing to help and answered all my questions immediately.”

However, we had trouble finding many recent reviews like this one. Redfin doesn't let you choose your agent, and it doesn't do a lot to vet them. It’s mostly a matter of luck whether you’ll get a good agent.

Availability

Clever locations

Clever is available in all 50 states and Washington, DC. It operates in both major metropolitan areas and rural markets.

Clever Offers may be limited in areas with few or no local cash buyers. Also, due to state laws, Clever Cash Back is unavailable in Alabama, Alaska, Kansas, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Oregon, and Tennessee.

Redfin locations

Redfin operates in over 100 markets across the US and Canada. It serves most states, except for Maine, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming. While Redfin may have Partner Agents in these states, these agents are independent from Redfin and don’t offer discounted rates.

Redfin agents work only in major metropolitan areas. And not all services, like Redfin Concierge and Redfin Premier Agents, are available in every market Redfin operates in.

Bottom line: Should you use Semya-Moya or Redfin?

Both Clever and Redfin offer a 1.5% listing fee — half of what traditional realtors charge. You could potentially save thousands when selling with either company, and both also offer benefits for buyers.

However, because Redfin agents handle a much larger volume of work, you may get less hands-on attention from them than you would with a Clever agent.

If you’re not sure which discount brokerage to choose, remember that you’re hiring an agent, not a brand. Your realtor’s local experience, knowledge of buyer and seller trends, and level of personalized service are far more important than the brand they work with.

We recommend interviewing several agents to find the best fit.

Clever lets you compare multiple agents, so it's easier to see who has the experience and expertise best suited to your transaction. You can then compare those agents with Redfin’s suggested agent.

No matter who you choose, you’ll save money on your real estate transaction and have the agent you feel most comfortable working with.

The post Semya-Moya vs. Redfin: Which Is Better? appeared first on Semya-Moya.

What you get with an UpNest agent: Quick summary

Our advice on using UpNest

What is Upnest?

How does UpNest work?

1. On the UpNest site, you'll sign up by entering basic information about your sale or purchase, including location, timeline, property type, and estimated value.
2. You’ll arrive at your customer dashboard, where you can compare different agent proposals. You may get one to two proposals instantly, while others may take minutes, hours, or even days.
3. You’ll get a phone call and an email from an UpNest Advisor who will explain how the process works and ask about your preferences in an agent.
4. You'll select which agents you want to interview and sign with your favorite one.
5. If you dislike any agent matches, you can request more or simply walk away.

How much does UpNest cost?

UpNest vs. top competitors

UpNest has high-quality agents

• Ranking in the top 5% in terms of sales in their local area
• Having three years of industry experience
• Closing at least six transactions in the past 12 months

Other companies offer better customer service

Savings aren’t nearly as good as the competition

Our shopper’s take

Pros and cons

Pros

• Our team was usually impressed with the agents UpNest matched us with. Most agents had plenty of past transactions in our area, even in small towns and rural areas where local experience can be harder to find at some other agent matching services.
• If you need to buy or sell quickly, UpNest is definitely faster than searching for an agent on your own. Usually, we got one to two agent proposals instantly after signing up. We then got more sent to us after we spoke to an UpNest Advisor. In total, our team typically got two to six agent proposals.
• UpNest’s online customer dashboard is user-friendly and makes it easy to compare your agent matches. Since you’ll get a lot of matches, it's important to have a dashboard that makes comparison shopping easy.

Cons

• In our experience, UpNest’s customer service was a mixed bag. Some reps we spoke to were extremely helpful and knowledgeable about UpNest’s process and agents. Others struggled with simple questions, such as explaining how realtor commission works.
• While UpNest claims its platform helps you save money, our experience shows that those savings are lackluster. Its average total commission fee is 5.2%, which is only marginally lower than the nationwide average of 5.45%.

UpNest reviews: What customers say

What customers liked about UpNest

What customers didn’t like about UpNest

Is UpNest legitimate?

💰 Potential savings are misleading

How does UpNest make money?

How much can sellers save with UpNest?

Why UpNest’s seller savings are limited

Does UpNest offer savings for buyers?

Why do agents work with companies like UpNest?

Should you work with UpNest?

How does UpNest work for real estate agents?

Do agents pay to be on UpNest?

How do you become an UpNest agent?

• A current real estate license in good standing
• Closed at least six transactions in the past 12 months
• A minimum of three years of industry experience
• Proven expertise in the local housing market
• Positive customer reviews
• Great communication skills
• An understanding of online marketing techniques and strategies
• Strong online presence (i.e., a Zillow or Realtor.com profile)

How good are UpNest leads?

FAQ

Related links

The Best Low Commission Realtors (2023 Broker Rankings)

Find the best low commission real estate agents and brokers, so you can sell with a full-service realtor and save thousands on commission fees!

Semya-Moya Reviews (2024): How It Works, Pricing, and Alternatives

Is Semya-Moya right for you? Learn how it works, read real customer reviews, and compare it to similar services.

How to Find a Real Estate Agent That's Right for You

This guide on how to find the best real estate agent is packed with useful tips and information, based on hundreds of hours of research and expert interviews.

Methodology

The post UpNest Reviews 2023: How It Works, Pros and Cons, and Expert Advice appeared first on Semya-Moya.

Many homeowners think they can save money by selling their homes without a realtor.

But only 11% of sellers actually succeed at selling FSBO.[6] And if they do, FSBO homes sell for about 35% less on average than agent-represented properties, which more than negates any commission savings.[1]

That said, FSBO homes can sell quickly, and many FSBO sellers get their asking price — especially if they already know the buyer.

Here are 25 essential statistics for sellers on the fence about FSBO.

What are the biggest regrets FSBO sellers have?

From having to pay surprise agent fees to selling for less than expected, these FSBO statistics show what sellers wish they’d done differently — or what they wish they knew beforehand.

1. Most FSBO sellers still pay commission

Successful FSBO sellers don't have to pay a fee for their listing agent, but most still have to pay the agent who brought a willing buyer.

In fact, 74% of all sellers (FSBO or not) offer a buyer’s agent commission.[7] Since this commission is how the buyer's agent gets paid, failing to offer one potentially shuts you off to a huge pool of potential buyers.

Most sellers factor realtor commissions into the home’s asking price, so buyers may balk at a seller who asks them to pay an additional 3% in commission upfront — especially because buyers already pay the down payment and closing costs out of pocket.

If you already have a buyer, it may make sense to hire a real estate lawyer to help with the paperwork rather than using real estate agents. But 50% of FSBO sellers don't know the buyer — meaning they're probably offering a competitive buyer's agent's commission of around 3% to find a buyer.

» MORE: Why Do Sellers Pay Buyer’s Agent Commission?

2. FSBO sellers are far less likely to get more than their asking price

The typical FSBO home sells for $120,000 less than the median home price, indicating that FSBO homes are priced to sell. Yet, homes sold by owner are also far less likely to sell for more than their asking price.

In fact, homes sold through an agent are more than three times as likely as FSBO homes to sell for more than the seller is asking. In 2022, 40% of agent-assisted home sales resulted in a sale price greater than 100% of the list price, compared to only 13% of homes sold FSBO.[1]

3. They often pay thousands more in buyer incentives

Many FSBO sellers offer buyer incentives that end up costing them more than what agent-assisted sellers offer.

For example, FSBO sellers who don't know the buyer are twice as likely as agent-represented sellers to offer credits toward repairs and remodeling, which can be up to 6% of a home's sale price. In contrast, the most popular buyer incentive agent-assisted sellers offer is a home warranty policy, which often costs just hundreds.[1]

While 9% of agent-assisted sellers offer home warranty policies instead of repair credits, less than 1% of FSBO sellers do.[1]

By offering to cover repair costs instead of a home warranty, you’re potentially agreeing to spend thousands more on buyer incentives than an agent-assisted seller typically would!

4. Many FSBO sellers still end up with a real estate agent

Sometimes FSBO sellers struggle to handle the paperwork and amount of work involved in selling on their own. About 10% of all home sellers try to sell on their own but eventually hire a real estate agent.

FSBO sellers who give up and get an agent list three main reasons for doing so:[8]

• Selling with an agent is easier
• It takes too long to sell without one
• FSBO paperwork is too complicated

Also, FSBO sellers who switch to an agent often have the worst outcomes with home sale price and incentives. This is possibly because their listing has been on the market too long and they’re willing to do whatever it takes to sell their home.[1]

FSBO sellers who eventually list with an agent get an average of 96% of their asking price, compared to 100% for all other sellers.[1]

5. You can save thousands on commission and get an experienced realtor

Many FSBO sellers aren’t just missing out on the value and experience that a real estate agent brings to the table — they’re also often unaware that they can work with a full-service, experienced listing agent without paying the full 6% commission.

For example, Clever matches you with top-rated agents who are experts in their locations. But, instead of the full 3% commission most listing agents charge, Clever connects you with agents who will sell your home for just 1.5% of the sale price (about half the typical rate).

Who do sellers choose FSBO vs. a realtor?

With all the difficulties of selling FSBO, you may wonder why some people choose to sell without an agent. Here are the most revealing facts about FSBO sellers’ motivations compared to what sellers are looking for when they turn to a realtor.

6. 85% of sellers would use the same agent again

It’s worth noting that bad real estate agents are the exception, not the rule. This is partly why FSBO sellers represent only a small fraction of overall home sales.

According to the NAR, 85% of sellers who work with an agent say that they’d definitely or probably use the same agent again if they had to buy another property or sell their current one.[9] That’s a high number, and it indicates that the majority of sellers are happy with the experience they have working with a real estate agent.

This fact suggests many FSBO sellers are putting themselves through what could be a difficult selling process when they could have a much more positive experience working with an agent.

7. 44% of FSBO sellers want to save money

Saving money on realtor fees was the most popular reason sellers chose FSBO instead of an agent. 44% of FSBO sellers decided not to use an agent because they did not want to pay real estate agent commission.[1]

However, what FSBO sellers save on commission they often lose in terms of a lower sales price and other costs. FSBO homes sell for about 35% less, on average, than homes sold with the help of a seller's agent.

If you’re looking to save money, you may ultimately be better off going with a low commission agent rather than taking on the big task of selling your own home — and potentially for less.

» MORE: How to Save on Realtor Commission Fees (Without Sacrificing Service)

8. FSBO sales have dropped by nearly 50% since 1985

While FSBO might seem like a popular alternative to hiring an agent, FSBO sales only make up 10% of all home sales in the US.[1] Most sellers are still turning to agents for their expertise and professional sales skills.

And the share of sellers who are relying on realtors is only growing. FSBO sales made up 21% of all home sales in 1985, but have dropped to almost half that today.

Put simply, selling a house is a complicated process. With new real estate regulations, better ways to save when you sell, and access to a larger pool of buyers, there's a reason that the vast majority of sellers choose to use a real estate agent.

9. 83% of sellers choose an agent who provides a broad range of services

Selling FSBO requires a lot of extra time and energy. Time limitations and assistance with the complex process of selling are two important reasons some sellers choose to work with an agent, with 83% of sellers selecting an agent who provides a broad range of services.[1]

Sellers were particularly looking for help with:

• Pricing their home (23%)
• Marketing to prospective buyers (23%)
• Selling their home within a set time frame (16%)

While saving time and energy may not be the number one reason for choosing an agent, it’s an important consideration if you’re already busy or don’t feel prepared to do all of the legwork yourself.

As we’ve already seen, not having enough time to dedicate to selling a home is one of the top five difficulties that FSBO sellers face. For many, hiring an agent solves this problem instantly.

10. Only 49% of FSBO sellers who don't know the buyer are in a rush to sell

FSBO sellers tend to be in less of a hurry to sell than sellers who are represented by an agent. Just 49% of FSBO sellers who don't know the buyer say they either very urgently or somewhat urgently needed to sell, compared to 50% of agent-assisted sellers.[1]

This lack of urgency has its upsides and downsides.

While many FSBO sellers can patiently wait around for a good offer, the facts suggest that — because FSBO homes sell for less than agent-assisted ones — those good offers fail to materialize.

How successful are FSBO sellers vs. real estate agents?

The success rate of selling without a realtor is a mixed bag and largely depends on what your definition of "success" is. These FSBO statistics reveal how successful sellers who ditch the agent are (or aren’t).

11. FSBO homes sell for 35% less

FSBO sales have a median sale price of just $225,000 versus $345,000 for homes listed by an agent.[1] That’s a difference of over $120,000 — or about 35% — that you could potentially lose by trying to sell FSBO.

The lower sale price may be because FSBO homes are more likely to be mobile homes or in rural areas. But other studies suggest that FSBO homes sell for 6% less even when compared to similar homes.[10]

Most sellers choose FSBO instead of a realtor in order to save money on realtor commissions. But if your house could sell for 6% less, then you might not actually save money by avoiding a listing agent fee — which is typically 2.5–3% but can be less with a discount brokerage.

Listing agents often more than pay for themselves. At a minimum, you'll probably net a little more money by hiring a realtor. And you'll also avoid a ton of work trying to price and market your home, negotiate, and figure out paperwork.

12. Only 11% of FSBO sellers succeed

FSBO initially sounds like a good idea to a lot of sellers, but most eventually realize how hard it is and give up. In fact, 36% of sellers try FSBO, but only 11% actually succeed.[6]

Those who don’t succeed either take their homes off the market or enlist the help of a real estate agent. For many, FSBO ends up being a lot of wasted time and energy.

Since most FSBO sales fail, if you’re thinking of selling on your own, why not just skip all the trouble that FSBO entails? Instead, your best option is usually to find a real estate agent who can do the work for you and still get you a sale price that will net you more in profits than you’d likely save on your own.

13. 73% of buyers believe they can out-negotiate FSBO sellers

When we asked buyers why they would consider purchasing a FSBO home, 73% said they thought either their agent or themselves would get a better deal than with agent-represented sellers.[11]

And as we already saw, FSBO homes often close for 35% less. Unless you're extremely experienced and comfortable negotiating, reconsider listing your home without a realtor.

How do FSBO sellers find buyers?

Sellers have more options for marketing a FSBO home today than ever before — including through FSBO websites and social media.

But FSBO statistics show that most sellers aren’t taking advantage of all the marketing tools available to them — and this causes FSBO homes to go unnoticed by many potential buyers!

14. 50% of FSBO sellers already know a buyer

FSBO sellers often skip an agent's help because they already have a buyer, such as a friend or family member. In fact, 50% of FSBO sellers report knowing their home's buyer.[1]

If a seller already has a buyer, some realtor services are unnecessary. This includes services like holding open houses and listing the home on the MLS.

However, about 21% of these home sellers admit they struggle to get the price right. They also struggle with paperwork, which is the second hardest part of a FSBO sale, according to recent sellers.

For relatively simple jobs where a seller already has a buyer, many agents are willing to work for a reduced rate. A real estate agent can still draw up the sales contract and ensure you price the home appropriately.

15. Only 3% of FSBO sellers list on the MLS

About 86% of homes for sale are listed on a multiple listing service (MLS).[7] But only 3% of FSBO sellers market their homes with an MLS listing,[12] even though most buyers find their homes through the MLS.[1]

Major sites like Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com pull their listings from the MLS, and buyer's agents rely on the MLS to find showings for their clients. 

If FSBO sellers don't list on the MLS, they miss out on a lot of exposure. Buyer's agents may not know the home is even on the market and may never show it to their clients.

For FSBO sellers who want more exposure, there's a workaround. A flat fee MLS service will list your home for a few hundred dollars. This type of service is legally a brokerage, which is why they can list on the MLS. But they don’t do any other work an agent does, like stage the home, host showings, or negotiate.

» MORE: Flat Fee MLS Listing Services: A Better Way to Sell a House?

16. 28% rely on friends, relatives, and neighbors

When FSBO sellers market their homes, the most popular marketing method is relying on friends, relatives, and neighbors. 28% of FSBO sellers used word of mouth as a key marketing method.[1]

This method is closely followed by yard signs, at 20%, and third-party aggregators, like Zillow and Redfin, at 19%.

It makes sense that FSBO sellers — who tend to be more cost-conscious — would prefer more affordable marketing methods. But the problem is that many buyers find their homes online.

17. Most buyers find their homes online

The second most popular method buyers use to find their homes is through an online search (60%). The most popular is through a real estate agent (68%).[7]

In comparison, just 6% of buyers find homes through a yard sign and only 7% through friends, relatives, or neighbors.[11]

FSBO sellers would be wise to check out the best FSBO sites to get more eyes on their listing.

» LEARN: Why FSBO Sellers Should Consider Listing on the MLS

18. 19% of buyers don't know how to find FSBO homes

In our 2022 survey of 1,000 home buyers, 70% said they'd consider buying a FSBO home. But 19% said they had no idea where to find these listings.[11]

That makes sense considering that most buyers are looking for listings on the major MLS-fueled sites. And unless the seller springs for a flat fee MLS package, buyers won't find FSBO listings on them.

Most popular home search site with buyers

19. 81% of FSBO sellers offer no buyer incentives

Another way to find buyers? Incentives. But, 81% of FSBO sellers offer no buyer incentives, compared to 79% of agent-assisted sellers who offer no incentives.[1]

And as we mentioned above, the buyer incentives that FSBO sellers do offer tend to cost them more than the ones that agent-assisted sellers offer.

A lack of buyer incentives is likely to result in fewer offers, especially if you’re selling in a buyer’s market. While buyer incentives aren’t the most important aspect of selling a home, they can tip the scales in your favor if buyers are considering multiple similar properties.

What do FSBO sellers find most difficult?

Selling a house is tough, and many FSBO sellers find the job a lot harder than they expect. Check out these FSBO facts about what sellers found to be the hardest parts about selling a house without a realtor.

20. Pricing the home is the hardest part for 16% of sellers

Pricing the home correctly is the hardest task for 16% of all FSBO sellers, even sellers who know the buyer (22% of them reported it as the hardest part).[1]

Most FSBO sellers simply look at what other homes are selling for in their area and choose a similar price. But that fails to take into account unique aspects of the home — such as upgrades, features, or repair work — that could affect your final sales price.

Pricing your home is one of the most important parts of selling a home. Sellers need to find the sweet spot of not losing money by pricing too low and not losing prospective buyers by pricing too high. It's also hard for people who have lived in a house to price it objectively.

Problems with pricing are part of the reason FSBO homes sell for 35% less on average than agented properties. On a $400,000 home, that could mean losing $140,000 on your sale — way more than you'd pay in realtor fees!

The best way to set the right listing price for your home is to get a comparative market analysis (CMA) from an experienced local realtor.

21. Preparing and understanding paperwork is the toughest job for 13% of FSBO sellers

Understanding and preparing paperwork is the second hardest task for all FSBO sellers, with 13% ranking it as the toughest part.[1]

Completing the paperwork involved with a sale is an incredibly difficult process that most FSBO sellers struggle with. Even if you price your home correctly and find a willing buyer on your own, as a FSBO seller, you'll handle a lot of the paperwork that goes along with a sale.

While you can hire a real estate attorney to handle some of the paperwork, including the sales contract, this will cost you extra money out of pocket. And an attorney won’t provide you with the advantages that a realtor offers, such as knowing how to price your home or offer the most enticing buyer incentives for your market.

» MORE: The Main FSBO Paperwork You'll Face, By State

22. 10% of sellers struggle to sell on time

For 10% of FSBO sellers, selling their home within their desired time range is the hardest part of the process.[1]

Non-realtors simply don’t have the marketing skills or the network of interested buyers that an agent brings to the table — and which help get a property sold fast.

Not surprisingly, selling within a desired time frame was also the top reason people did choose a realtor, according to 36% of agent-assisted sellers.[13] That suggests selling fast is one of the top benefits that a realtor brings to the table compared to going it alone.

If you’re looking to sell fast, your safest bet is to get an agent to help with your sale.

23. Prepping the home is the toughest job for 6% of FSBO sellers

For 6% of FSBO sellers, the hardest part is getting the home ready for sale.[1]

If you’re selling FSBO, you may feel overwhelmed by the amount of work you have to do, such as staging your home the right way, keeping the home clean for showings, taking care of repairs and touch-ups, and maintaining your lawn and garden.

While many of these are tasks you’ll have to do even if you have an agent, an agent can give you direction about what work is the most important to attract buyers.

24. 1% wish they had more time to focus on selling

FSBO is so much work that a lot of people struggle to find the time for it. 5% of FSBO sellers say finding enough time to devote to selling was the toughest task for them.[1]

Not only do you need to focus on getting your home ready for sale (which is the number one difficulty that FSBO sellers encounter), but you also need to focus on finding buyers by marketing, holding showings, and negotiating with potential buyers.

And when you have an offer, you’ll have to do even more of the work that a realtor would typically do, like draw up a sales contract. And after all that work, there’s a good chance that you’ll still end up with less money than if you just hired an agent in the first place.

25. FSBO sellers are more likely to be satisfied with the process when they already know the buyer

Among FSBO sellers, 80% are likely to be satisfied with the process when they already know the buyer, compared to 69% of FSBO sellers who don't know the buyer. 

Moreover, 13% of FSBO sellers without a buyer are dissatisfied with the process, compared to 9% of sellers overall and just 3% of FSBO sellers who already have a buyer in mind.

Find your best option

Getting the latest FSBO statistics can make you better informed about which approach you want to take when selling your house. And hopefully they give you a good idea of whether FSBO is right for you.

But they'll never take the place of getting feedback from a realtor who actually knows your area.

If you're wondering how to find a real estate agent who can help you save on realtor fees, Clever can help.

Clever's free, no-obligation service matches you with a local, full-service agent for less, so you can save money while still making an informed decision.

FAQ

Related links

The 5 Best FSBO Websites in 2021

We've compiled a list of the best websites to post for sale by owner (FSBO) homes — including several FSBO websites that let you sell your home yourself for free.

Flat Fee MLS Listing Services: A Better Way to Sell a House?

Flat fee MLS companies put your home on the MLS for a set rate, saving you potentially thousands of dollars on realtor commission costs. Read on to learn more.

How to Sell Your House For Sale by Owner

Everything you need to know to sell your house by owner, including marketing, pricing, and state specific paperwork.

The Best Low Commission Realtors (2023 Broker Rankings)

Find the best low commission real estate agents and brokers, so you can sell with a full-service realtor and save thousands on commission fees!

The post FSBO vs. Realtor: 25 Statistics to Help You Decide appeared first on Semya-Moya.

If you're selling your home for sale by owner (FSBO), hiring a flat fee MLS listing service can help you increase your listing's visibility without breaking the bank.

What is a flat fee MLS listing service?

A flat fee MLS service charges a set rate to list your home on the local multiple listing service (MLS), a database of homes for sale in your region. An MLS listing will greatly increase your listing’s exposure, making it much easier for potential buyers to find.

You technically need a real estate license to post on the MLS, so most sellers hire a realtor. A cheaper alternative is using a flat fee MLS listing service, which uses a licensed broker to get your home on the MLS.

But selling a property involves a lot more than just listing it on the local MLS. You'll also be responsible for showings, open houses, photography, listing descriptions, marketing, pricing, paperwork, and negotiations. Unlike full-service real estate agents, a flat fee MLS company doesn't usually handle all of these details. You’ll be largely on your own.

If you want to save money without getting overwhelmed by all the DIY, a better alternative is to use a traditional real estate agent who charges discounted rates.

Clever negotiates flat 1.5% listing fees with full-service agents from top brokerages like Keller Williams and RE/MAX. That's half the 3% agents typically charge — saving you thousands of dollars without the headache of trying to sell without a realtor.

» SAVE: Find top local agents and get a 1.5% listing fee!

Should I use a flat fee MLS listing service?

Flat fee MLS listing services are best for home sellers who have the experience, time, and confidence to sell for sale by owner (FSBO). If you have a DIY mentality, these services can save you 2.5–3% in realtor commission and give you more control over your sale.

But selling your home without an agent can be difficult and time-consuming. You'll handle almost everything yourself, including pricing, marketing, and negotiating. Plus, you'll probably still pay a 2–3% buyer's agent commission.

If you know what you're doing, FSBO can be a rewarding experience. And using a flat fee MLS service can help. But if you’re mainly considering a flat fee MLS to save money, you’ll find much better overall value with a discount realtor. Check out our list of the best discount real estate agents in 2023.

What are the benefits of a flat fee MLS listing?

You save money on realtor commission

You could save thousands of dollars by using a flat fee listing service instead of paying a listing agent commission. Most flat fee MLS listing companies charge just a few hundred dollars — and some no-frills options are less than $100.

By comparison, a traditional listing agent charges around 2.5–3% of the final sale price. On a $500,000 home sale, a 3% commission would cost you $15,000. But be aware that selling without a realtor comes with risks that could mean you lose money in the long run.

You can pay just for the services you need

Many flat fee MLS listing companies let you pick the services you need. In addition to an MLS listing, they often offer à-la-carte services like pricing assistance, lockboxes, yard signs, and marketing materials.

You don't have to pay for services you won't use. For example, if you're comfortable negotiating with buyers but want help with closing, you can opt for a plan that includes support with closing but not negotiations.

You have more control over your sale

If you want control over how your home is priced and marketed, selling without a realtor may be appealing. While it’s more work for you, you get the final say over every step of the home selling process.

This control means you get to negotiate directly with buyers or buyer's agents. Troy Janes, who sold without a realtor, explains, “We could speak directly with the seller and negotiate the terms of the deal directly rather than going through the formal, time-consuming process of filling out forms for every little thing.”

» JUMP: Find the best flat fee MLS service near you

What are the risks of a flat fee MLS listing?

Homes sold without a realtor make less

FSBO homes sell for about 5.5% less on average than homes sold with a realtor. That wipes out any savings you’d get by avoiding the 2.5–3% listing agent commission.

These homes sell for less for many reasons. DIY sellers can make serious pricing mistakes or fail to effectively negotiate with experienced buyer's agents. Also, many buyer's agents avoid showing their clients flat fee MLS listings because they assume FSBO sellers are harder to work with.

As realtor Kristyn Grewell notes, when buyer's agents work with an FSBO seller, they're “going to do more work for the same commission. The agent may not show [an FSBO home], especially if there are plenty of other options.” The result is that FSBO properties get less attention from buyers, and there's less competition to drive up the sale price.

Deals can fall through during negotiations

Some buyer's agents can be aggressive when negotiating with FSBO sellers. They assume the seller is inexperienced and doesn’t know what a fair deal looks like. As Grewell says, “There are some agents that are kind of bulldogs out there especially when it comes to negotiations after we're under contract, like for repairs.”

Buyer's agents may demand that you make repairs or they'll walk away. However, if they were dealing with a listing agent, they’d likely show more flexibility. The listing agent could make a counteroffer, such as a home warranty in lieu of repairs, which sellers are less likely to think of themselves.

Similarly, some FSBO sellers can be too inflexible. Grewell continues, “If you get yourself stuck saying I'm not doing any repairs, and you don't have [an agent] saying, just spend the $1,000 dollars and get this to closing, sometimes [the seller] will get tunnel vision and let a deal go because they're being stubborn.”

Being your own realtor is hard work

When you sell without a realtor, you take on most of the tasks a realtor would do. This includes writing a listing description, pricing your home, taking photos, marketing, hosting showings, negotiating with buyer's agents, and closing.

Even if you choose a pricier flat fee MLS plan with extra support, it'll usually fall short of what you’d get with a full-service realtor. If any issues arise, you'll be responsible for dealing with them. As Grewell says, all of this work can leave FSBO sellers feeling like they’re “just putting out fires and it can be very stressful.”

How much does a flat fee MLS listing cost?

Typically, a flat fee MLS listing service charges $100–400 for a basic package. These plans include at least a 6-month MLS listing and 4 or more photos.

Most companies also offer premium flat fee packages for a few hundred dollars more. These plans can include longer listing terms, more pictures of your home, and help negotiating with buyers. Plans with broker support sometimes cost a flat fee and a percentage of the sale price at closing, usually 0.5–1%.

You can also find add-ons, like "for sale" signs and lockboxes, for around $25–100 each.

The value of premium plans depends a lot on the company. For example, Congress Realty and Houzeo both offer $399 plans, but only Congress Realty’s includes call forwarding. This service is almost essential if you don’t want to miss out on interested buyers. To get call forwarding with Houzeo, you have to upgrade to a plan that costs at least $999.

How much can I save with a flat fee MLS listing?

You could save thousands of dollars on real estate commission by using a flat fee MLS listing service.

But your actual savings depend on how much your house sells for. Homes sold without an agent sell for around 5.5% less than homes sold with an agent, potentially wiping out the savings you’d get by not paying a 2.5–3% listing fee.

Here's how much you could save, assuming a typical 3% fee for a listing agent and a $299 flat rate for an MLS listing.

When you use a flat fee service, you'll probably still have to pay a 2–3% commission to the buyer's agent. Buyer’s agent commission comes from the sale proceeds, so it’s up to the seller to decide how much to offer.

You can technically offer less than the standard 2–3%, but that’ll make your house much harder to sell. Fewer buyers will see your property, which means less competition and potentially a lower sale price.

As realtor Kristyn Grewell says, “Agents are not going to work for free. In the US, buyers in most markets have no expectation of having to pay a commission to an agent. Offering none is not going to get your house shown.”

Flat fee MLS listing vs. full-service realtor

Besides cost, the difference between a full-service agent and a flat fee MLS listing company is the quality and amount of services they offer.

When you sell FSBO using an MLS listing service, you miss out on the expertise and comprehensive service of a traditional realtor.

While some FSBO sellers find the experience rewarding, it's not easy to sell your house on your own. Roughly 10% of sellers who try a FSBO sale eventually give up and hire a full-service listing agent.

» COMPARE: The full savings and value of a flat fee realtor vs. a flat fee MLS service

What do you get with a flat fee MLS listing?

At a minimum, a flat fee MLS listing company lists your house on your local MLS, typically for 6–12 months. Basic packages tend to limit the number of photos you can upload (sometimes as low as four) and may charge for listing changes and cancellation. Many plans include disclosure forms and a comparative marketing analysis to help you price your home.

You can get more services by upgrading to a more expensive package. A premium plan may include: 

• A lockbox
• Online appointment scheduling
• DocuSign
• Professional photography 
• Pricing assistance
• Agent support during negotiations
• Paperwork assistance

However, premium packages can be poor value overall. The price may include a flat rate and a percentage at closing — which makes it expensive. If you need extra support, you’re usually better off finding a discount real estate agent who offers full service.

What do you get with a full service real estate agent?

When you work with a full-service agent, you get access to a suite of services that can be incredibly valuable to someone trying to sell their home. Typical services include:

• Conducting a comparative market analysis (CMA)
• Creating an MLS listing
• Marketing your home
• Negotiating with buyer's agents
• Getting professional photography
• Home staging
• Scheduling and hosting showings
• Helping with paperwork

Full-service agents are trained professionals who can advocate for you. They know from experience what's fair in a real estate transaction and what red flags to avoid. For example, they can effectively vet potential buyers’ financing, which can help you avoid deals falling through at the last minute.

» LEARN: How a full-service real estate agent makes selling your home easier

What is the best flat fee MLS listing service?

The best flat fee MLS listing service depends on how much experience you have selling homes and how much support you need.

If you're a highly experienced seller, a no-frills plan may be best. For example, Homecoin has a $95 flat fee plan that's designed for sellers who want to take a more DIY approach.

If you need more support in certain areas, like contracts or pricing, you should see what add-ons or premium plans are available in your area. For example, HomeZu has a contract review package where an agent reviews your sale agreement before you make it final.

The best flat fee MLS listing services for 2023

Company	Clever Rating	Customer Rating	Listing Fee	Availability
Best value for most sellers HomeZu	3.5	4.9/5 (537 reviews)	$399 upfront + 0.1% at closing	Nationwide (except ND and WY)	Learn More homezu.com
Homecoin	2	4.8/5 (112 reviews)	$95–3,000	AZ, CA, FL, GA, IL, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, NY, OH, SC, TN, TX, VA, WA, WI	Learn More On listwithclever.com
Congress Realty	3	4.9/5 (105 reviews)	$299–499 or $399 upfront + 0.5% at closing	AZ, AK, CA, ID, LA, MT, NV, NM, OR, TX, UT, WA	Learn More On congressrealty.com
Unreal Estate	2.5	4.5/5 (111 reviews)	$0 to $599 upfront + 0.5% at closing	Nationwide (except SD)	Learn More On unrealestate.com
Flat Fee Group	0 Varies by location	Varies by location	Varies by location	Nationwide	Learn More On listwithclever.com
Beycome	2.2	4.6/5 (587 reviews)	$99 to $599 upfront + 1% at closing	AL, CA, CT, FL, GA, IL, MN, NC, SC, TX	Learn More On listwithclever.com
ISoldMyHouse.com	2	4.7/5 (60 reviews)	$299–399	Nationwide (except ND)	Learn More On listwithclever.com
Houzeo	1.5	4.9/5 (3,048 reviews)	$329–999+	Nationwide	Learn More On listwithclever.com

Best value for most sellers

HomeZu

Learn More

homezu.com

3.5

Listing Fee

$399 upfront + 0.1% at closing

Overview

Service packages

Locations

HomeZu is a flat fee MLS company with very positive customer reviews.

It offers one MLS package in most states, but in others, it also has a premium package. The only difference between the two is that the pricier premium plan includes a contract review by a licensed agent.

The basic MLS Listing package is good value for money, with a 25+ photo limit, free cancellation, and free listing changes. But if you need the 12-month listing upgrade, it costs an extra $99.

The Contract Review package is also competitively priced, but only one contract review is included. Every additional review costs $100. If you need multiple contract reviews, you'll quickly end up paying a lot more than you would with another company.

Also, HomeZu retains 0.1% of the buyer's agent commission.

Pros

• The basic plan comes with 25+ photos.
• You get free listing changes and cancellations.
• All plans include lead forwarding and disclosure forms.

Cons

• This company isn't the cheapest option if all you want is a no-frills plan.
• The Contract Review package isn’t available everywhere.
• The company retains 0.1% of the buyer's agent commission.

MLS Listing: $399 + 0.1% from the buyer’s agent commission

• 6-month MLS listing (upgrade to 12 months for $99)
• 25+ photos
• Listing changes
• Lead forwarding
• Disclosure forms
• 2 open house ads
• Yard sign ($19)

Contract Review (only available in select states): $749 + 0.1% from the buyer’s agent commission

MLS Listing package, plus:

• 1 contract review by a Simple Choice Realty agent
• Additional contract reviews ($100 each)

HomeZu is available nationwide, except North Dakota and Wyoming.

A basic, no-frills option

Homecoin

Learn More

On listwithclever.com

2

Listing Fee

$95–3,000

Overview

Service packages

Locations

Homecoin is a flat fee MLS listing service that's easy to use. It charges $95 for an MLS listing, and you can purchase additional services à la carte. However, its add-ons are pricey compared to similar companies.

If you want a DIY sale and a no-frills MLS listing, Homecoin offers the best MLS package. But if you need extra services, you're better off looking elsewhere.

Pros

• Homecoin has one of the cheapest flat rate MLS options.
• It offers free cancellation and unlimited photos.
• You can get a free home valuation report.

Cons

• Add-ons are expensive compared to the competition.
• The one package available is unsuitable for novice sellers.
• There's no option for full broker support.

Flat Fee MLS Listing: $95

• 12-month MLS listing
• Unlimited photos
• Call forwarding
• Free cancellation
• 10 free listing changes
• Disclosure forms
• Home value report
• Lockbox ($125)
• Yard sign post ($99+)

Homecoin is available in AZ, CA, FL, GA, IL, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, NY, OH, SC, TN, TX, VA, WA, and WI.

Good for agent support

Congress Realty

Learn More

On congressrealty.com

3

Listing Fee

$299–499 or $399 upfront + 0.5% at closing

Overview

Service packages

Locations

Congress Realty has four MLS listing packages, ranging from basic to full agent support. Unlike many of its competitors, the company is licensed in each state where it operates, so you won’t have to deal with intermediaries.

The Basic and Plus plans are poor value. They have very low limits on photos and listing changes, making them impractical for most DIY sellers.

Only the Full Service plan has agent support and sales comps to help you more accurately price your home. But the Full Service plan is expensive since it combines a flat rate with a percentage commission.

Pros

• You can upgrade from a 6-month listing to 2 years for only $50.
• The Full Service plan is competitively priced.
• All plans include a ShowingTime appointment tool and DocuSign.

Cons

• You get only four photos with the Basic plan, which is too low for most sellers.
• The Basic plan doesn't have automated phone lead forwarding.
• Marketing add-ons aren’t included in the Full Service plan.

Basic: $299

• 6-month MLS listing
• 4 photos
• 5 listing changes
• DocuSign
• ShowingTime
• State forms and disclosures
• Seller’s contact information on MLS listing

Plus:$399

Basic plan, plus:

• Max photos allowed by MLS
• 10 listing changes
• Automated phone lead forwarding

Premium: $499

Plus plan, plus:

• Unlimited listing changes
• Unlimited open house postings
• Listing posted on CongressRealty.com and social media

Full Service: $399 + 0.5% at closing

Premium plan, plus:

• Dedicated agent support
• Sales comps

Congress Realty is available in AZ, AK, CA, ID, LA, MT, NV, NM, OR, TX, UT, and WA.

Best range of plans

Unreal Estate

Learn More

On unrealestate.com

2.5

Listing Fee

$0 to $599 upfront + 0.5% at closing

Overview

Service packages

Locations

Unreal Estate has a variety of plans at competitive rates. Its Starter plan gets you on the MLS, and you don't have to pay until your house sells. However, this package allows only five photos, which likely isn't enough to properly display your home.

The Basic plan has a reasonable price, but the photo limit is still low at 15, and you have to settle for chat- or email-only support.

The Deluxe and Premium plans offer the best overall value, since they both have high photo limits.

However, Clever has partnered with Unreal Estate, so if you use code Clever, Unreal Estate drops the 0.5% charge on its Basic, Deluxe, and Premium plans. Instead, you pay a flat rate of $99, $250, or $450.

Pros

• You only pay for your MLS listing if you sell.
• With Clever, you can get exclusive, competitive rates for the most popular plans.
• Online reviews praise the company's customer service.

Cons

• Photo limits are low on the two cheapest plans.
• Only the most expensive plan includes unlimited listing edits.
• Customer support is available only via chat or email for the two lower-tier plans.

Starter: 0.5% at closing

• 6-month MLS listing
• 5 photos
• Live chat support

Basic: $99 upfront + 0.5% at closing (or just $99 through Clever)
Starter package, plus:

• 15 photos
• Free cancellation
• 2 listing or price edits
• Lead caller ID
• Email support

Deluxe: $139 upfront + 0.5% at closing (or just $250 through Clever)
Basic package, plus:

• 25 photos
• 4 listing or price edits
• Yard sign
• Call forwarding
• Phone support

Premium: $249 upfront + 0.5% at closing (or just $450 through Clever)
Deluxe package, plus:

• Max photos allowed by MLS
• Unlimited listing or price edits
• Buyer qualification information
• Sales agreement review
• 30-minute broker form review

Unreal Estate is available nationwide, except South Dakota.

Good for customer service

Flat Fee Group

Learn More

On listwithclever.com

0

Varies by location

Listing Fee

Varies by location

Overview

Service packages

Locations

Flat Fee Group is a nationwide organization of brokers, with one broker covering each state. Each broker operates independently, so prices and services vary a lot between states.

In most states, Flat Fee Group offers a wide range of plans. That makes it a good choice if you want a plan suited for your experience level.

Customer reviews vary between local brokerages. In general, Flat Fee Group’s local brokers have good online reviews and are highly experienced.

Pros

• Customer reviews online are usually positive.
• The company has a wide range of plans in most states.

Cons

• Prices vary depending on where you live.
• Add-ons and services vary between states.

Flat Fee Group’s prices and plans vary a lot between states. Visit the company website to see what it offers in your area.

Flat Fee Group is available nationwide.

Good digital support

Beycome

Learn More

On listwithclever.com

2.2

Listing Fee

$99 to $599 upfront + 1% at closing

Overview

Service packages

Locations

Beycome is a flat fee MLS listing service that operates in California, most of the Southeast, and a few other states.

It has three plans, but only two offer good value for most sellers: the $99 Basic package and the $399 Enhanced package. These plans are affordable since they provide unlimited MLS access, the maximum number of photos the MLS allows, and unlimited listing changes.

Beycome’s Concierge plan isn’t a great offer. It provides a dedicated agent and costs $599 upfront plus 1% of the sale price. At that price, you’re better off with a low commission company that guarantees full service and support.

Pros

• Listing stays active until your house sells.
• The company provides English and Spanish customer support via phone, chat, and email.
• You get the max photos allowed by the MLS.

Cons

• Only the Concierge service includes a comparative market analysis and agent support.

Basic Package: $99

• List until sold
• Max photos allowed by MLS
• Unlimited listing changes
• Open house scheduler
• Home visit manager tool
• Access to legal forms and disclosures
• Customer service in English and Spanish

Enhanced Package:$399

Includes Basic plan, plus:

• 25 professional HDR photos
• Customizable flyers and brochures
• Personalized yard sign
• Printable promotional items
• Open house package
• Craigslist easy click and share ad
• Virtual tour
• YouTube video
• Listing featured on beycome.com

Concierge Service: $599 upfront + 1% at closing (min. $999)

Includes Enhanced plan, plus:

• Comparative market analysis
• Home valuation service and pricing assistance
• Full marketing support
• Immersive 3D tour
• Full negotiation and paperwork support
• Dedicated closing coordinator

Beycome is available in AL, CA, CT, FL, GA, IL, MN, NC, SC, and TX.

Best for online resources

ISoldMyHouse.com

Learn More

On listwithclever.com

2

Listing Fee

$299–399

Overview

Service packages

Locations

ISoldMyHouse.com is a nationwide brokerage with generally favorable online reviews.

The entry-level package is Get LISTED! While fairly cheap, the plan's major drawback is that it includes only 6–10 photos. Photos are an important part of drawing in interested buyers, so that limit may not be enough.

The Get SOLD! package is a bit more expensive, but overall it provides better value for money than Get LISTED!

Also, while ISoldMyHouse.com generally has good reviews, some clients complained that its customer service operates almost entirely online. If you prefer talking to a representative over the phone, you may want to look elsewhere.

Pros

• Both packages are good value for what you get.
• The company generally has positive customer reviews.
• The free online resources can help you learn how to sell on your own.

Cons

• The basic package includes only 6–10 photos.
• Some customers complain that customer service operates almost entirely online.
• Neither package comes with many free extras.

Get LISTED!: $299

• 6-month MLS listing
• 6–10 photos
• Lead forwarding
• Online customer support
• Custom printed sign ($75)
• Lockbox ($50)
• 1-month featured listing ($25)

Get SOLD!: $399

Get LISTED! plan, plus:

• 12-month MLS listing
• 25 photos (or max allowed by MLS)

ISoldMyHouse.com is available nationwide, except in North Dakota.

Best for managing listings online

Houzeo

Learn More

On listwithclever.com

1.5

Listing Fee

$329–999+

Overview

Service packages

Locations

Houzeo is a nationwide company that offers four pricing plans. Most are poor value for money, with the cheapest plan providing just a three-month listing and six photos. Only the Silver plan is comparable to what other companies offer, although the six-month listing term is still on the low side.

While Houzeo mostly has good reviews online, there are some serious complaints. Some customers said they felt pressured to provide positive reviews, while others complained that their listings contained errors — such as being posted to the wrong MLS or displaying the wrong list price. Difficulty contacting customer service was also a common theme of negative Houzeo reviews.

The one positive we can say about Houzeo is that its online platform makes it easy to create your listing and manage showings. However, for most sellers, that benefit doesn't outweigh the risks.

Pros

• It's easy to manage your listing and home showings online.
• Most of Houzeo's online reviews are positive.

Cons

• Listing changes are expensive for the entry-level package.
• All packages are pricey for what they offer.
• Some customers complain that the mobile app is buggy and frequently crashes.
• Reviews note that customer service is often difficult to reach and slow to fix errors.
• Some customers complain about serious mistakes in their listings and hidden fees.

Bronze: $329

• 3-month MLS listing 
• 6 photos
• Listing changes ($25 each)
• Open houses ($25 each)
• Custom yard sign ($49)

Silver: $399

Bronze package, plus:

• 6-month MLS listing 
• Max photos allowed by MLS
• Unlimited listing changes
• Unlimited open houses
• Houzeo mobile app 
• Manage showings online

Gold: $379 upfront + 0.5% at closing (min. $999)

Silver package, plus:

• Custom printed yard sign
• Review and compare offers online 
• Disclosure forms 
• Personal concierge 
• Rush service (draft in 12 hours)
• Call forwarding 
• Contract and form review with a broker

Platinum: $349 upfront + 1% at closing (min. $999)

Gold package, plus:

• 12-month MLS listing
• Coming soon listing (upon request, where available)
• Listings on additional MLS (upon request, where available)
• Pricing assistance
• Contract-to-close broker consultation

Houzeo is available nationwide.

Flat fee MLS listing services by state

There are hundreds (if not thousands) of flat fee MLS companies based throughout the United States. While there are big players such as Houzeo that offer services across the country, there are also many uber-local flat fee MLS companies too.

The potential benefits of opting for a homegrown service include more local market knowledge, more control over your listing, and better communication.

It’s also worth mentioning that many of the national services simply refer you to a local realtor or brokerage. So you might as well skip the middleman and work directly with a flat fee listing service based in your area.

Find your state below to compare flat fee MLS listing services near you.

Which flat fee MLS listing service should you use?

When comparing flat fee MLS services, it’s important to consider your specific needs and goals, because they'll dictate which features matter most to you. We've broken down some of the most important factors when evaluating different companies:

Alternatives to a flat fee MLS listing

If you’re looking to save on real estate agent commission but are wary of the heavy lifting that typically comes with a FSBO listing, there are a number of alternative options worth considering.

Sell with a discount real estate broker

Discount realtors provide real estate services for a reduced commission or flat fee. They're a good option if you want to avoid the risks of using a flat fee MLS service but still save money on realtor commission.

Discount real estate brokers are more expensive than flat fee MLS services, but you're more likely to sell for a better price because you’re working with an expert. Many discount realtors offer the same full service as traditional real estate agents, so you don’t need to worry about sacrificing quality for savings.

Company	Clever Rating	Listing Fee	Availability
Best overall Semya-Moya	4.8	1.5% (min. $3,000)	Nationwide	Learn More On listwithclever.com
Redfin	4.5	1.5% (min. fee varies)	Nationwide (select markets)	Learn More On listwithclever.com
Ideal Agent	4.5	2% (min. $3,000)	Nationwide	Learn More On listwithclever.com

Sell FSBO without an MLS listing

Technically, you don’t need an MLS listing to sell your house. You can simply advertise it for sale on a few websites. Some of these sites are exclusively for real estate listings, while others have a variety of items for sale.

Free FSBO listing websites include:

• Craigslist
• Facebook Marketplace
• ForSaleByOwner.com
• Zillow

However, selling FSBO without an MLS listing is rarely successful.

For one, your listing won’t be reposted to other sites like Realtor.com. The only people who see it will be those who visit the particular site you posted on. Also, buyer's agents heavily rely on the MLS to find homes for their clients. If your home isn’t on the MLS, not many buyers or buyer's agents will see it.

Many of the buyers who do visit FSBO websites are real estate investors. They usually want to buy homes for less than market value and flip them for a profit, so they probably won't offer a fair price.

Finally, even if you don't use the MLS, you still need to follow local real estate laws and FSBO paperwork requirements.

FAQ about flat fee MLS listing services

The post Flat Fee MLS Listing Services: A Better Way to Sell a House? appeared first on Semya-Moya.

What are flat fee real estate brokers?

How do flat fee brokerages work?

Flat fee MLS listing companies

Cost

Full-service discount brokers

Cost

Pros and cons of flat fee brokers

Pros of flat fee brokers

You save money on commission

• Traditional listing agents charge 2.5–3%, which amounts to $10,000–12,000.
• Full-service discount brokers can charge 1–2%, around $4,000–8,000.
• Flat rate MLS listing services can charge just a few hundred dollars.

You pay only for the services you need

You control the sales process

Cons of flat fee brokers

You may make less money on your sale

Some companies offer poor service

You’ll be largely on your own

What is a reasonable realtor fee?

What is the best flat fee real estate broker?

Best full-service discount brokers

Semya-Moya

Learn More

💲 Listing Fee

1.5% (min. $3,000 fee)

💰 Avg. Savings

$5,625

⭐ Avg. Customer Rating

5/5 (2,735 reviews)

✍️ Editor's Take

Pros

Cons

Reviews

Locations

Clever is a quick, easy, and free way to find a top-rated local real estate agent for less. Unlike many similar companies, Clever lets you choose your own realtor from its network of more than 20,000 top-performing local agents, and it pre-negotiates big discounts on your behalf. That way, you can save without sacrificing service.

Try Clever for free — save thousands on commission.

• Clever matches you with full-service local agents from conventional brokerages like Keller Williams, Century 21, and RE/MAX.
• You get multiple agent matches so you can interview several, compare marketing plans, and choose the best fit.
• Clever pre-negotiates low rates on your behalf — you get full service for a 1.5% listing fee.
• Eligible buyers get cash back after closing.

• You may not get matched with an agent from your preferred real estate brokerage.
• Agents may not provide premium services like drone photography and professional home staging.

Clever has a 5.0 out of 5 rating on Trustpilot, based on 2,589 reviews.

Read reviews from real Clever customers here.

Clever has pre-negotiated low commission rates with top agents in all 50 states and Washington, DC.

Ideal Agent

Full Review

💲 Listing Fee

2% (min. $3,000)

💰 Avg. Savings

$3,750

⭐ Avg. Customer Rating

4.9/5 (6,254 reviews)

✍️ Editor's Take

Pros

Cons

Reviews

Locations

Ideal Agent can match with a great agent from a traditional brokerage. But its 2% listing fee makes Ideal Agent a lot more expensive than other full-service discount brands.

Read the full Ideal Agent review.

• You'll get a full-service agent from a traditional brokerage
• It's free to request an agent match, and you can walk away at any time

• Ideal Agent costs more than most other full-service, low commission companies
• You'll only get matched with a single realtor — most similar services recommend multiple agents so you can compare your options and pick the one you like best

Ideal Agent has a 4.9 out of 5 rating (6,254 reviews) across popular review sites like Google and Trustpilot.

Read reviews from real Ideal Agent customers here.

Ideal Agent is available to home sellers nationwide.

Redfin

Full Review

💲 Listing Fee

1.5% (min. fees vary)

💰 Avg. Savings

$5,541

⭐ Avg. Customer Rating

2.9/5 (331 reviews)

✍️ Editor's Take

Pros

Cons

Reviews

Locations

Redfin offers real savings and is a proven brand. But sellers could compromise on service — especially agent experience and availability.

Read the full Redfin review.

• If you buy and sell with Redfin, you'll get a 0.5% listing fee refund.
• Redfin gives its listings premium placement in its popular home search app.

• If finding the right agent is a top priority, you'll have limited options — Redfin only has a few agents in each of its markets.
• Redfin agents handle more customers at once than the average realtor, so they may not be able to provide as much personalized service.

Redfin has a 2.9 out of 5 rating (331 reviews) across popular review sites like Google and Yelp.

Read reviews from real Redfin customers here.

Redfin is available in 80+ U.S. markets (see all locations).

SimpleShowing

Full Review

💲 Listing Fee

1% (min. $5,000)

💰 Avg. Savings

$6,375

⭐ Avg. Customer Rating

5.0/5 (336 reviews)

✍️ Editor's Take

Pros

Cons

Reviews

Locations

SimpleShowing’s commission savings are solid — but you may compromise on agent selection and hands-on service.

Read the full SimpleShowing review.

• SimpleShowing is one of the only true 1% commission companies.
• It also offers one of the largest home buyer rebates of any low-fee brokerage.

• You have very few options when it comes to selecting your agent.
• Agents handle more customers than the average realtor, which could impact service quality.

SimpleShowing has a 5.0 out of 5 rating (336 reviews) across popular review sites like Google, Trustpilot, and Zillow.

Read reviews from real SimpleShowing customers here.

SimpleShowing is available in the following areas: FL, GA, TX.

Prevu Real Estate

Full Review

💲 Listing Fee

1.5% (min. fees vary)

💰 Avg. Savings

$2,450

⭐ Avg. Customer Rating

5.0/5 (465 reviews)

✍️ Editor's Take

Pros

Cons

Reviews

Locations

Prevu offers solid commission savings for buyers and sellers. But at certain price points, other discount brands may offer better value.

Read the full Prevu review.

• Prevu's 1.5% listing fee saves sellers an average of $2,450 compared to a standard 3% commission rate.
• Eligible buyers get a commission rebate worth up to 2% of the home price.

• High minimum fees may limit your savings if you're selling a lower-priced home.
• Prevu has a small team, which limits your options if you don't hit it off with the first agent it sends you.

Prevu has a 5.0 out of 5 rating (465 reviews) across popular review sites like Google and Yelp.

Read reviews from real Yelp customers here.

Prevu is available in the following areas: CA, CO, CT, MA, NY, PA, TX, WA.

Best flat fee MLS listing services

HomeZu

HomeZu

Price Range

$399 + 1% at closing (in most states)

Number of Photos

25

Listing Term

6 months

Description

Pricing

Pros and cons

In most states, HomeZu offers a single Basic plan (also called the MLS Listing plan) for $399 that includes all the essentials you’d expect from a flat fee MLS service. You get a six-month listing, 25 photo limit, free listing changes, and lead forwarding. You can also cancel anytime for free.

MLS Listing/Basic Plan: $399 upfront + 0.1% at closing

• 6-month MLS listing
• 25 photos
• Free listing changes
• Lead forwarding
• Phone and email support
• Disclosure forms

Note: In a handful of states, HomeZu offers premium packages with a contract review or full broker support. Services and pricing vary by state, but these packages generally costs $700–999. Contact HomeZu directly to see if premium packages are available in your area.

Pros

• Basic plans come with a high photo limit.
• Lead forwarding and disclosure forms are included.
• Cancellation and listing edits are free.

Cons

• The Basic plan is more expensive than other companies'.
• The company takes a portion of the buyer’s agent commission.
• It offers only one plan in most states.

Homecoin

Homecoin

Price Range

$95

Number of Photos

Max allowed on MLS

Listing Term

12 months

Description

Pricing

Pros and cons

Reviews

Homecoin is an online MLS listing platform that provide low-cost listing and selling services. Your listing is live in under 24 hours. There's no cancellation fee or minimum buyer agent commission (2-3% is recommended).

List on the MLS: $95

• Unlimited photos
• 12-month MLS listing
• 10 free listing changes
• Lead forwarding
• Home valuation and CMA
• Customizable FSBO listing on Homecoin’s website

Additional à-la-carte services include a lockbox rental, sign rental, pro photography, and selling form assistance.

Pros

• Paperwork and listing can be completed fully online
• Homecoin platform allows for sellers to customize their listing directly from their smartphone or computer
• Unlimited photos to showcase all aspects of a home

Cons

• Prices may vary depending on specific home location
• No direct real estate agent support

As of August 1, 2020, Homecoin has an average rating of 4.9/5 based on 114 reviews across Google, Zillow, and Yelp.

• Zillow: 4.8/5 (29 reviews)
• Yelp: 5/5 (78 reviews)
• Google: 4.7/5 (7 reviews)

Congress Realty

Congress Realty

Price Range

$299–499

Number of Photos

6 to max. allowed

Listing Term

6 months

Description

Pricing

Pros and cons

Reviews

Congress Realty is a flat fee MLS service that operates in AZ, AK, CA, ID, LA, MT, NV, NM, OR, TX, UT, and WA.

Basic: $299

• 6-month MLS listing

• 4 photos

• 5 listing changes

• DocuSign documents

• Seller's contact info prominently displayed on MLS listing

• ShowingTime appointment tool

• Access to all state forms and disclosures

Plus: $399

Includes Basic plan, plus:

• Max photos allowed by MLS

• 10 listing changes

• Automated phone lead forwarding

Premium: $499

Includes Plus plan, plus:

• Unlimited listing changes

• Unlimited open house postings

• Listing posted on CongressRealty.com

• Listing featured on social media

Full Service: $399 + 0.5% at closing

Includes Premium plan, plus:

• Dedicated 24/7 experienced agent

• Full negotiation and paperwork support

• Sales comps upon request

• Contract review

• Closing transaction support (inspection, title, escrow, etc.)

Pros

• Congress Realty offers DocuSign for all packages.
• Most packages include unlimited changes and unlimited photos.
• The company offers call and email forwarding so buyers can contact you directly.
• The company offers 2% cash back if you use its representation to buy a home.
• You can get upgrades, including electronic lockboxes.

Cons

• The basic package allows only four photos and five free changes.

• The company serves only the Western and Southwestern U.S.

As of June 3, 2023, Congress Realty has 4.8/5 stars across 49 Googlereviews and 5/5 stars out of 46 Zillow reviews.

Unreal Estate

Learn more

💲 Listing Fee

$99–599

⭐ Avg. Customer Rating

4.3

✍️ Editor's Take

Pros

Cons

Reviews

Locations

Unreal Estate offers service nationwide.

It has some of the best rates to list on the MLS, but listings in some states come with a minimum fee.

• Three budget-friendly flat fee options to choose from.
• Flexibility to determine the commission for a buyer's agent.
• Listings remain active for a minimum of six months.

• Only the premium plan fulfills all our criteria for essential service quality.
• Concierge service information is challenging to locate.
• No packages provide the maximum number of listing photos.

Customers have given Unreal Estate an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on over 230 reviews across platforms like Google, Trustpilot, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau.

Nationwide*

*Locations current as of June 20, 2023

Flat Fee Group

Flat Fee Group

Price Range

$399-479+ (varies by state)

Number of Photos

25

Listing Term

6 months up to until sold

Description

Pricing

Pros & Cons

Reviews

• Flat Fee Group is a network of independent brokers that offer flat-fee services in their respective state(s)
• Pay no buyer’s agent commission if you find an unrepresented buyer
• Buyer and agent inquiries forwarded to you (in most states)
• Contracts, disclosures, and addendums included (in most states)

$399 - Showcase 6-month listing on MLS in most cases Syndicated to Realtor.com, Zillow, Trulia, and more Up to 25 photos General marketing tools (e.g. flyers, yard sign)

$549 - Premium Same as Showcase package, plus: Contract, offer, and document review $479 + 0.5% at closing - Platinum Same as Premium package, plus: Negotiation assistance

Packages, services, and pricing vary by state. Check the website for details about options in your area.

Pros

• Work directly with the broker, not a referral service
• Buyer inquiries forwarded directly to you
• Pay no commission if you find an unrepresented buyer

Cons

• As of August 10, 2020, does not have an independent broker in Montana, West Virginia, and Wyoming
• Experience and service quality may vary depending on your state’s broker

As of August 10, 2020, no third-party review information was available for Flat Fee Group. However, as a network of independent brokers, you can check the website, find your state’s broker and research their individual reviews.

How to choose a flat fee broker

• 6–12 month MLS listing
• 25+ photos
• Unlimited listing changes
• Buyer and agent lead forwarding
• Free cancellation
• Optional add-ons like a lockbox, showing management, and contract review

• Pre-listing consultation
• Comparative market analysis and pricing recommendation
• Professional photography
• MLS listing, including a comprehensive property description
• Marketing plan
• Showing and open house management
• Assistance vetting offers and buyer financing
• Coordination of inspections, appraisals, and title requirements
• Support with negotiations and closing paperwork

Calculate your effective rate to find the best savings

Watch out for hidden fees and misleading claims

Bottom line: Should you use a flat fee real estate broker?

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The post The Best Flat Fee Real Estate Brokers + Agents in 2023 appeared first on Semya-Moya.