Flat-Fee MLS Guide · Chapter 4 of 7
The Flat-Fee MLS Landscape
Not all flat-fee MLS providers operate the same. National software platforms, regional brokers, and discount full-service teams price and package their offerings differently. This chapter maps the landscape so you know what you are actually buying.
The three dominant categories
National platforms
Houzeo, Beycome, Unreal Estate, Congress Realty
Typical pricing: $99 – $499 starter plans · $399 – $999 “premium” packages
Support experience: Online dashboards, call forwarding, lead capture portals. Real human assistance varies; many rely on ticket systems.
Watch for: Upsells for offer review, delayed broker approvals in smaller MLS boards, and lead harvesting.
Regional brokerages
ISoldMyHouse (Northeast), Flat Fee Group (multi-state network), local Realtor boutiques
Typical pricing: $299 – $699 typical
Support experience: Closer MLS relationships, faster edits, sometimes offer contract support. Coverage depends on the broker’s footprint.
Watch for: Limited coverage outside their core MLS, extra charges for contract drafting or pricing consults.
Discount full-service hybrids
Redfin Concierges, select Keller Williams/EXP teams offering limited-service packages
Typical pricing: $2,000 – $5,000 flat fee or 1–2% listing-side commission
Support experience: Staging, pro photos, negotiation guidance, closing coordination. More traditional but still cheaper than 3%.
Watch for: Fees climb quickly, contracts often include early termination penalties.
What each price point usually includes
- $99 – $299: MLS entry only. Limited photos. Edits cost extra. Leads forwarded to your email/phone with no backup.
- $300 – $699: More photos, basic forms, lockbox rentals, and a few edits included. Some offer limited phone support.
- $700 – $1,500: Often adds pro photography, yard signage, contract templates, and light negotiation advice. Still largely DIY after listing.
Need a deeper vendor-by-vendor matrix? Mark your spot and open Meydomo vs. Flat-Fee MLS for direct comparisons.
Lead handling: the great divide
Most providers stop after they press “submit” in MLS. Lead handling is either non-existent or an upsell. Before committing, ask how quickly they respond to buyers, whether they confirm showings, and if they log inquiries anywhere you can access.
- Some national platforms capture leads in their dashboard and resell the data. Read the privacy policy carefully.
- Regional brokers may provide a direct line but expect you to answer. Few have a dedicated call centre.
- Discount full-service hybrids typically assign an agent, but the cost savings shrink accordingly.
Service coverage matters
The MLS is hyper-local. National platforms often rely on partner brokers in each market. If that local broker is overloaded, your listing edits can lag for days. Before you pay, confirm:
- Which broker will list your home and how to reach them directly.
- Average turnaround time for edits or status changes.
- Whether they charge if you need to pause or withdraw the listing.
Why this chapter matters
Flat-fee MLS can mean “software dashboard,” “boutique broker,” or “discount agent team.” Knowing the difference prevents you from overpaying or assuming support that does not exist. Chapter 5 digs into the pitfalls and clauses that cause the most pain.