By admin1
How do I list my home with a flat fee MLS service?
Once you’ve chosen to sell FSBO with a flat fee MLS service in Rochester, follow these steps to get your home listed:
1. Research flat fee MLS companies
Compare local services, pricing, and package options. Review the number of photos you can upload, available forms, and any extra fees. Check online reviews and verify the company through the BBB.
2. Register and choose a plan
Sign up on the company’s website, select your preferred package, and pay the upfront fee.
3. Enter property details
Fill in your home’s description, upload photos, and complete any required disclosure forms.
4. Understand the fine print
Carefully review and sign the listing agreement, ensuring you understand cancellation policies and commission obligations.
5. Review your live listing
Once published, check your listing on real estate sites like Zillow and Realtor.com to confirm accuracy. It may take a few days to appear.
Are flat fee MLS listings effective in Rochester?
Most homebuyers start their search online, and real estate websites pull listings directly from the local MLS. This makes the MLS one of the most effective ways to market a home, even in a FSBO sale.
Additionally, buyer’s agents rely on MLS data to find properties for their clients, meaning your home is more likely to be seen by serious buyers. Listing with a flat fee MLS service ensures your home gets the same exposure as agent-listed properties.
Alternatives to flat fee MLS services in Rochester
If a flat fee MLS service isn’t the right fit for your home sale, consider these alternatives:
- Flat fee real estate agent: This professional charges a set rate, typically $3,000 to $5,000, rather than a percentage of the sale price. This option provides some professional guidance while allowing you to maintain more control over your sale. Be sure to review the contract for any additional fees.
- Discount real estate broker: This professional charges a reduced commission, about 1% to 2% of the sale price, while still offering some level of agent support. While pricier than a flat fee MLS service, this option may provide valuable assistance with negotiations and paperwork.
- Full-service Realtor: A traditional real estate agent brings market expertise, pricing strategies, and a network of local contacts to help sell your home efficiently. While traditional agents charge a commission, they can often maximize your sale price and streamline the process.
Will I save money with a flat fee MLS listing service?
Yes, a flat fee MLS service can help you save on commission costs. However, it may not always result in the highest sale price. Research from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that FSBO homes sell for significantly less than those sold with an agent. The median FSBO sale price was $360,000, compared to $425,000 for agent-assisted sales.
Moreover, FSBO sellers often sell to people they know, like friends or neighbors, and these deals usually go for less than market value since buyers anticipate a friendly discount. While a flat fee MLS can increase exposure, it’s important to weigh potential savings against the risk of a lower sale price.
