Best flat fee MLS listing services for Georgia | Should you use a flat fee MLS listing service? | What's included with a flat fee MLS listing? | Typical pricing | Top alternatives | FAQ
If you're selling for sale by owner (FSBO), a flat fee MLS listing service can post your home on the MLS for a one-time fee starting around $100. You'll get the same basic visibility as you would selling with a realtor, without having to pay a listing agent 2.5–3% commission.
The downside is that you have to do most of the work yourself — which is often a lot more than first-time FSBO sellers realize.
Additionally, FSBO homes sell for an average of 6% less than comparable homes sold with an agent. So you need to weigh the commission savings against the potential profit loss — especially since you still need to pay a buyer's agent if your buyer uses a realtor.
Should you use a flat fee MLS service?
Using a flat fee MLS service instead of a real estate agent can save you thousands in realtor commission. But you'll work hard to earn those savings by doing the tasks a realtor normally does.
Here are the pros and cons of using a flat fee MLS service:
Pros
- Commission savings. You pay a few hundred dollars to a brokerage instead of a 2–3% commission to a listing agent.
- Control over the sale. Because you’re selling without a realtor, you have direct control over pricing, presentation, and negotiations.
- Pay-per-service. Many flat fee MLS companies offer multiple service packages and add-ons (such as a lockbox or help reviewing offers) so you can pay only for what you need.
Cons
- Lower sale price. FSBO homes generally sell for less than homes sold with an agent. In 2022, the median sale price for FSBO listings was $225,000, compared to $345,000 for agent listings.
- Missed leads. MLS rules prevent your contact info from being posted to public sites like Zillow. Unless your MLS package comes with automated lead forwarding, buyers have to go through your broker, who may be slow to respond.
- Hidden costs. Flat fee MLS companies often charge fees for their most valuable add-ons. And in most cases, you should still expect to offer seller concessions to help the buyer cover some costs.
If you’re on the fence about selling FSBO but still want to save, we recommend using an alternative like Real Estate Witch. We can connect you with top local agents who offer a 1.5% listing commission through its network. You’ll still save thousands, but you’ll have a full-service realtor by your side.
If you decide a flat fee MLS listing is right for you, Georgia has several decent listing services to choose from. We've compiled a list of regional and nationwide companies that offer good value at various price points.
Best Georgia flat fee MLS listing services: Quick view
About our rankings
To find the best flat fee MLS services in each state, we spent dozens of hours researching companies across the country. Our research process involved:
- Investigating more than 140 local flat fee MLS services to ensure our information about service packages, cost, and contract terms is up to date
- Mystery shopping over 20 flat fee MLS companies to gain insight into the consumer's experience
- Interviewing sellers and real estate agents who have experience with flat fee MLS services
- Combing through Google, Trustpilot, BBB, and Facebook reviews for each business
- Browsing user forums like Reddit and Bigger Pockets for additional perspectives
What is a flat fee MLS listing service?
A flat fee MLS listing allows sellers without a realtor to post their home on the local multiple listing service (MLS), the main online database where realtors list their clients’ homes for sale and find available listings for buyers.
Once on the MLS, property listings get syndicated to popular home buying websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Redfin. If your home isn’t listed on the MLS, most buyers won’t even know it’s an option — so it's pretty much a necessity.
While you'd normally hire a realtor to handle your listing, since only licensed real estate professionals can access the MLS, a flat fee MLS service provides a low-cost workaround. With this type of brokerage, you get a legal MLS listing through a licensed broker without having to pay for the other services a realtor typically provides.
What's included with a flat fee MLS listing?
At minimum, a flat fee MLS listing package should include photos, a listing description, and a way to receive inquiries from buyers (either through an automated system or text/call forwarding).
Most basic MLS packages include 6–25 photos and a 3–12 month listing term. If you want your listing to stand out, you can pay more for additional features.
In Georgia, Simply List offers virtual showings for $300. Homecoin offers real estate sign posts for $125. For an extra 1% at closing, Houzeo offers virtual broker assistance to help you with pricing and paperwork.
While these extras can be helpful, the costs add up — and when it comes to pricing and contracts, it's probably better to have someone local to your market.
If you need extra support from a realtor, you may be better off hiring a low-commission real estate broker who knows the local market and can provide hands on support for similar savings.
How much do flat fee MLS services cost?
In Georgia, the flat fee MLS listing services we reviewed have entry-level packages ranging from $95 to $329. These bare-bones packages are geared toward experienced FSBO sellers who just need to get their home on the MLS.
Typically, the cheaper the plan, the less that’s included. You usually have to pay extra for desirable upgrades, such as lock boxes, additional photos, and changes to your listing.
Many flat fee MLS companies in Georgia also have higher-tier packages ranging from $599 to $995, plus an additional 0.5–1% at closing. These packages include extra services like open house advertising, contract reviews, and guidance on negotiations, allowing you decide how much support you need.
How do flat fee MLS services work?
Most flat fee MLS listing services follow the same basic steps. To get an MLS listing, you can:
- Visit the company website and choose a service package.
- Place an order online or over the phone.
- Fill out forms with your home's information and submit photos.
For basic MLS listings, that's pretty much it! If your service package includes additional features like a lawn sign, lockbox, or professional photography, you'll coordinate with the company to pick up items or schedule a photo shoot.
Once the company lists your home on the MLS, a broker will likely manage your listing and forward buyer leads to you.
Best Georgia flat fee MLS services: Full breakdown
Listing Fee
Overview
Service packages
Availability
Simply List lets FSBO sellers list on the First MLS and Georgia MLS. The company offers two plans, one with agent support and one without. Both plans include plenty of photos, a listing until sold, and a sales contract and disclosure forms.
Online reviews are positive, with reviewers commenting on the quality customer service, prompt and knowledgeable responses, and easy listing process.
You can cancel your listing anytime, but you'll have to pay a $75 FMLS and GAMLS fee and $25 Simply List fee.
Pros
- Your property is listed until sold, and you can relist for free.
- All plans include 25 or more photos, allowing you to showcase your property.
- Payment isn’t due until closing.
Cons
- You can schedule a listing or request listing changes only during regular office hours, unless you pay for a $99 upgrade to schedule on weekend and holidays.
- FSBO plans have a listing agent fee due at closing.
Listing Fee
Overview
Availability
Homecoin offers one low-cost MLS listing package. The package includes a 12-month listing, 25+ photos, pricing assistance, and more. Optional add-ons mean you’ll only pay for what you really need to sell your home. However, not all optional add-on services are available in Georgia, like help with forms.
You can order a Real Estate Comps Report without purchasing the package.
Customers say that Homecoin offers a great service and is easy to work with. Reviewers also mention the convenient online platform and professional, responsive customer service.
Canceling a listing is free, and you can do it anytime there isn’t an active offer.
Pros
- The Real Estate Comps Report includes comparable sales, property detail, market trends, and more.
- You get a 12-month listing term and unlimited photos.
- You manage the listing process all online.
Cons
- There's no full-service option for sellers who need more support.
- The cost of add-ons can add up quickly.
Listing Fee
Overview
Service packages
Availability
Georgia Listing Express offers the basic MLS listing services that most sellers need, like a six-month listing term and forms. Sellers can also choose from various add-on services to customize their plan.
The company is upfront about additional fees, including the $175 sale admin fee. You can cancel anytime, but there's a $45 cancellation fee.
Online reviews for the broker, Stephanie Smith, are highly positive. Reviewers mention high-quality customer service and prompt, knowledgeable responses.
Pros
- You can upgrade your plan with add-on services.
- The company is transparent about pricing.
- The forms library provides disclosure and contract forms.
Cons
- The plan includes only six photos, unless you buy the add-on for additional photos.
- The company charges a $20 fee for listing changes after the first 24 hours.
- You'll be charges an admin fee at closing.
Listing Fee
Overview
Service packages
Availability
Unreal Estate is a nationwide flat fee MLS service with a wide range of plans and good reviews. Notably, Unreal Estate offers a Starter package with no up-front costs — you just pay 0.5% at closing.
But the company’s two top-tier plans offer the best overall value. You get a higher photo limit, phone support, and lead forwarding.
Unreal Estate’s pricing includes a flat fee plus 0.5% at closing. However, we have an exclusive agreement with Unreal Estate. The company drops the 0.5% charge on most plans when you use code “Clever,” so you get a flat rate of $99–450 no matter how much your home sells for.
Pros
- Offers three affordable options
- No upfront cost with the Starter package
Cons
- Cancellation fee for the Starter package
- Phone support limited to higher-priced plans
Listing Fee
Overview
Service packages
Availability
Beycome offers three flat fee packages, ranging from a basic MLS listing to mostly full service. The Basic plan is competitively priced and includes lots of helpful features, making it a good choice for experienced FSBO sellers.
The concierge service isn't worth the money. It offers hands-on support with pricing, negotiating, and closing. But it costs about the same as some leading low-commission brokerages — and you still have to do some of the work yourself.
Beycome has a 90-day money-back guarantee. However, you won't get your money back if you close, are under contract, or receive at least two credible offers within 90 days. You can cancel anytime.
Online reviews are positive. Reviewers report a high-quality, professional experience, quick responses, knowledgeable information, and no hidden fees.
Pros
- Listings appear on the MLS within 36 hours
- Bilingual customer service via phone, chat, and email
- All plans include listing until sold and max photos allowed by the MLS
Cons
- Comparative market analysis only with Concierge Service
- Agent support limited to Concierge Service
Listing Fee
Overview
Service packages
Availability
Flat Fee Group is a nationwide company that matches you with a local listing broker. In Georgia, the company offers four plans with varying degrees of agent support. All plans include social media marketing.
There are no hidden fees, and you can cancel anytime as long as a contract isn’t pending.
Online reviews are mixed. Positive reviews report an easy listing process and responsive customer service. Negative reviewers mention feeling rushed, talking to a different person every time they called, and receiving slow service.
Pros
- You can list for sale or for rent.
- All buyer leads are forwarded directly to you.
- All plans include social media marketing and a showing service.
Cons
- The Basic plan includes only six photos.
- Only the Full Service plan includes DocuSign for contracts.
Listing Fee
Overview
Service packages
Availability
Houzeo is a nationwide flat fee MLS company designed primarily for For Sale By Owner (FSBO) sellers. With an impressive average customer rating of 4.9/5 across thousands of reviews, Houzeo stands out as a prominent player in the industry. It provides an easy-to-use online dashboard, simplifying the management of property listings for sellers.
However, it's important to note that its fees are often higher than some competitors, especially when additional services are required. Service quality can vary based on the partner agent assigned to the customer, potentially leading to inconsistent experiences. Additionally, Houzeo's refund policy is considered restrictive by some customers.
One of Houzeo's key strengths is its nationwide presence, allowing sellers to list their homes on the MLS, a crucial database used by real estate professionals. This significantly enhances the chances of finding a buyer. The company offers various pricing packages with different levels of support and services, but pricing and availability can vary by location.
Pros
- User-friendly online dashboard
- Positive reviews of its customer service
- Extra services available, including contract reviews and professional showings (for a fee)
Cons
- High fees for some services
- Varied service quality
- Restrictive refund policy
Top alternatives to flat fee MLS listing services in Georgia
Discount real estate brokers | FSBO without the MLS | Flat fee real estate agents
Sell with a discount real estate broker
Top discount real estate brokers provide the same services as traditional real estate agents — but for a 1–2% commission instead of the typical 3%.
With these companies, a dedicated agent will list your home on the MLS and provide the localized expertise needed to help you sell quickly and for top dollar. You won't have to worry about doing all the work of selling your home yourself like you would if you sold FSBO.
Sell FSBO without an MLS listing
It's possible to sell a home without using an agent or listing on the MLS, especially if you already have a buyer lined up. But if you need to drum up interest in your home, you'll need to look for creative ways to market it.
Get started by listing your home on free FSBO listing websites like:
- Facebook Marketplace
- Craigslist
- ForSaleByOwner.com
- Zillow
- Trulia
You'll also need to familiarize yourself with Georgia's real estate laws and FSBO paperwork requirements.
» LEARN MORE: How to sell without a realtor in Georgia
Sell with a flat fee real estate agent
Flat fee real estate agents work for a flat rate instead of the standard 3% commission most listing agents charge.
Flat fee agents can provide great savings. For example, if you're selling a $500,000 house, a flat fee agent may charge you a set $5,000 fee instead of 3%, which would be $15,000.
But it's important to research the brokerage before signing a contract. Many flat fee brokerages claim to provide full service, but they may actually cut corners on service to meet their price point.
To make sure you have the right realtor before committing, try a free service like Real Estate Witch. We give you the opportunity to interview multiple full-service agents until you find the right fit. All of our agents offer a flat fee of $3,000 on homes less than $200,000 and just 1.5% commission for homes above $200,000.
FAQ about flat fee MLS listings
What is the best flat fee MLS company in Georgia?
In Georgia, we recommend Unreal Estate and Homecoin for their affordable prices and Flat Fee Group for its marketing materials. Learn more about other flat fee MLS companies in Georgia.
Do I have to offer a buyer's agent commission in Georgia?
You should expect to offer a 23% concession to help the buyer pay their real estate agent. This isn't mandatory, but it may help make your home more affordable for buyers.
How do I get on the MLS in Georgia?
You can get on the MLS in Georgia by either hiring a listing agent or using a flat fee MLS service. You can't post on the MLS yourself, since only licensed real estate agents can access the MLS.
What is a flat fee in real estate?
A flat fee is a one-time fee paid to a real estate agent or MLS service instead of a commission. Most real estate agents charge a commission of 2.53% of the home's sale price. Some agents work for flat fees starting at $3,000, but they may limit the level of service they provide.
More ways to save on realtor fees
Top 10 Low Commission Real Estate Agents and Companies: We’ve done a lot of the research for you. Discover the best low commission real estate agents and companies to help you save on your home sale.
Top 2% Real Estate Commission Companies: A 2% real estate commission can save you a lot of money on your home sale compared to a traditional commission. Check out our handpicked list of top 2 percent commission realtors.
How to Sell Your House without a Realtor: In this guide, we cover the steps to selling without a realtor, plus the pros, cons, and costs.
More Georgia home selling guides
How to Sell a House without a Realtor in Georgia: Selling FSBO means saving on realtor commission, but there's plenty of work you'll need to do to earn those savings. Learn about required paperwork, state laws, costs, and more.
Average Real Estate Commission in Georgia: Even if you decide to sell without a realtor, it’s still a good idea to offer a buyer’s agent commission. Learn how much this could cost you.
Top "We Buy Houses" Companies in Georgia: "We buy houses" companies offer to buy homes quickly, even if they’re in poor condition. If you need to sell fast, find out if one of these agencies can help.