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Edited by Jessica Johansen
Written by Jon Stubbs
Edited by Jessica Johansen
Best Iowa flat fee MLS listing services | Should you use a flat fee MLS listing? | 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 get 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 hefty 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 listing service to sell your house?
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 extra fees for their most valuable add-ons. And in most cases, you still need to pay a buyer’s agent, so you may save less than you think.
If you’re on the fence about selling FSBO but still want to save, we recommend using an alternative like Clever Real Estate. Clever 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, Iowa 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.
Quick view: Best flat fee MLS listing services in Iowa
| Company | Our Rating | Listing Fee | Availability | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Best for sellers in Central Iowa wanting agent support
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18 reviews
|
$2,995–4,995 or 1% (listings over $525K)
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Central Iowa
|
Learn More |
|
132 reviews
|
$3,990–9,990
|
Clive and surrounding areas
|
Learn More |
|
153 reviews
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$399–1,995 + percentage at closing
|
Nationwide
|
Learn More |
|
60 reviews
|
$299–399
|
Nationwide, excluding ND
|
Learn More |
|
4,500+ reviews
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$329–379 upfront + percentage at closing
|
Nationwide
|
Learn More |
|
111 reviews
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$0–599 upfront + 0.5% at closing
Use code “Clever” to save
|
Nationwide, excluding SD
|
Learn More |
|
2 reviews
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$99.95–399.95
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Nationwide
|
Learn More |
What is a flat fee MLS listing?
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 an MLS listing with photos, syndication to real estate sites like Zillow and Realtor.com, and a way to receive leads from buyers and buyers’ agents.
Higher-priced service packages tend to offer more assistance with the sale, which you might need if you’re not as experienced. For example, for $329 upfront and an extra 1% at closing, Houzeo offers virtual broker assistance to help you with pricing, negotiations, and paperwork.
While these extras can be helpful, the costs can easily add up into the thousands — and when it comes to pricing and negotiations, it’s probably better to have someone local to your market.
If you need extra support from a realtor, you may want to consider hiring a low commission realtor who knows the local market and can provide hands on support for similar savings.
How much do flat fee MLS listing services cost?
In Iowa, the flat fee MLS listing services we reviewed have entry-level packages ranging from $99 to $399. These basic packages are geared toward FSBO sellers who just need to get their home on the MLS.
Some flat fee MLS companies in Iowa also have higher-tier packages ranging from $1,995 to $9,999. These packages include a variety of extras like professional photography and targeted social media ads.
Typically, the cheaper the plan, the less that’s included. And you may have to pay extra for important items, such as lock boxes, additional photos, and changes to your listing.
Flat fee MLS service fees may be higher in Iowa!
In minimum service states, real estate brokers — including flat fee MLS companies — are required by law to provide certain services to their clients.
While minimum service requirements vary by state, they often include having a broker help with accepting, reviewing, and negotiating offers. As a result, you may have to pay more to list with a flat fee MLS provider in these states.
Given the higher price tag, it may be worth exploring alternative ways to save on realtor commissions in Iowa.
How do flat fee MLS listing 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 flat fee MLS listing services in Iowa: Full breakdown
Listing Fee
Overview
Service packages
Availability
PROmetro Realty serves sellers and buyers in Central Iowa. Its flat fee MLS plans are pricier than some other companies, but they include high-end features and agent support.
Each plan requires a specific dollar amount upfront, ranging from $195 to $895, and the rest at closing. Sellers must also offer a buyer’s agent commission of up to 3%. While you can cancel a listing, the initial deposit is nonrefundable.
Online reviews are highly positive, focusing on the agents’ professionalism, knowledge, and expertise. Reviews also mention the easy listing process.
Pros
- The company offers plans with high-end features and agent support.
- Information about when costs are due and terms are clearly detailed.
- All plans include an in-home consultation, marketing ad, and professional photos.
Cons
- Plans are more expensive compared to many other flat fee MLS companies.
- The listing term for the Premier plan is only 90 days.
Starter: $2,995 ($195 upfront + $2,800 at closing)
- 5-month MLS listing
- Professional photos
- In-home consultation
- Showing feedback
- Open house hosting
- Agent representation and offer negotiating
- Legal forms and E-Sign
- Marketing ad and flyers
- Lockbox
- Yard sign
Pro: $4,995 ($495 upfront + $4,500 at closing)
Includes Starter plan, plus:
- 3D Matterport tour
- HDR photos
- Targeted ads and ad spend
Premier: 1% ($895 upfront + balance at closing)
Includes Pro plan, plus:
- 2X ad spend
- Aerial photos and video
The Starter and Pro plans are for listings under $525K, and the Premier plan is for listings over $525K.
PROmetro Realty is available in Central Iowa.
Listing Fee
Overview
Service packages
Availability
Next Generation Realty offers one flat fee MLS package. The flat fee includes the buyer’s agent commission, so there are no additional costs at closing. The plan’s price varies based on your home’s listing price.
An agent offers support throughout the selling process, and they’ll handle the closing. This support is helpful for less experienced sellers or those with limited time. All transactions are completed online.
Online reviews are positive. Reviewers report an easy selling process with professional customer service and prompt, knowledgeable replies.
Pros
- The flat fee covers the buyer’s agent commission.
- The plan includes agent support, like help handling all aspects of closing.
- The plan includes a market analysis and valuation.
Cons
- The price is higher than some other flat fee MLS companies.
- The company offers only one plan, which may provide more support than experienced sellers need.
Flat Fee Listing: $3,990–9,990
- MLS listing
- Market analysis and valuation
- Signs
- Brochures and brochure box
- Photography
- Networking assistance from licensed agent
- Unlimited open houses
- Agent-assisted closing (they handle paperwork, arrange inspections, assist in clearing title, and more)
The flat fee varies based on the home’s listing price:
- $3,990 = homes listed below $140,000
- $5,990 = homes listed at $140,000–300,000
- $7,990 = homes listed at $300,000–500,000
- $9,990 = homes listed above $500,000
The flat fee includes the buyer’s agent commission, so there are no additional costs at closing.
Next Generation Realty is available in Clive and the surrounding areas.
Listing Fee
Overview
Service packages
Availability
Flat Fee Group is a nationwide company that matches you with a local listing broker to handle your MLS listing.
Plans range from self-service to full broker support, providing options for both experienced FSBO sellers and less experienced sellers.
Each plan includes an up-front flat fee and a percent due at closing, which includes the buyer’s agent fee. You can cancel anytime as long as a contract isn’t pending, but the flat fee is nonrefundable.
Online reviews are positive, with reviewers highlighting a quality selling experience and professional, prompt customer service.
Pros
- Sellers can choose from three levels of service.
- All plans include 25 photos.
Cons
- Plans are priced higher than some other flat fee MLS services.
- The company doesn’t offer many add-on services.
- You don’t get to choose the buyer’s agent commission.
Basic: $399 upfront + 3.5% at closing (including buyer’s agent fee)
- 6-month MLS listing
- 25 photos
- Yard sign
Premium: $799 upfront + 3.5% at closing (including buyer’s agent fee)
Includes Basic plan, plus:
- 1-year MLS listing
- Showing service and feedback
- Contracts, addendums, and disclosures
- eSign sales contracts
- Agent support for reviewing the sales contract, preparing a counter offer, and negotiating
Full Service: $1,995 upfront + 3% at closing (including buyer’s agent fee)
Includes Premium plan, plus:
- Open house
- Combo key box
- Sales comps
The percentage at closing includes the buyer’s agent commission.
Flat Fee Group is available nationwide.
Listing Fee
Overview
Service packages
Availability
ISoldMyHouse.com offers two flat fee MLS plans, both of which are fairly barebones and best for experienced DIY sellers. Both offer lead forwarding, online support, and free cancellation. The higher-priced plan includes a longer listing term (in some states) and higher photo limit, making it better overall value.
The company also has an online library of resources to help new FSBO sellers. However, it doesn’t offer broker assistance, so it may not be the best choice if you need extra support.
Customers commend the company’s customer service and ability to answer questions quickly.
Pros
- Its simple plans are a good fit for experienced sellers.
- It offers several add-ons to customize your package.
Cons
- The only difference between the packages is the number of photos allowed.
- Its packages don’t include as many services as some other companies.
Get LISTED!: $299
- 6-month MLS listing
- 6 photos
- Schedule open houses
- Online customer support
- Lead forwarding
- Custom, printed sign ($75)
- Realtors combo lockbox ($50)
- One-month featured listing ($25)
Get SOLD!: $399
Includes Get LISTED! plan, plus:
- 12-month MLS listing (in some states)
- 25 photos
ISoldMyHouse.com is available nationwide, excluding ND.
Listing Fee
Overview
Service packages
Availability
Houzeo is one of the most well-known flat fee MLS brands. It stands out for its online dashboard, which lets you easily manage your listing. With its higher-priced plans, you can also manage showings and compare offers online.
However, Houzeo’s plans don’t provide great overall value. The two top-tier plans cost at least $999. While they do include some virtual broker assistance, you can get the same service for less with other local flat fee companies.
Most Houzeo reviews online are positive. But the most common complaints are about Houzeo being slow to fix problems, like listing errors. A few customers also complained about hidden fees.
Pros
- You can fill out, sign, and submit all your seller’s paperwork on the Houzeo app.
- When you enter your address, Houzeo autofills publicly available data about your property.
- It offers additional services like contract reviews, agent showings, and professional showings for an extra fee.
Cons
- Most plans provide poor value overall.
- You have to pay extra for pricing assistance.
- Its least expensive package charges $25 for each listing change and open house.
Bronze: $329
- 3-month MLS listing
- 6 photos
- Used when selling land or lot
- IntelliList listing management
- Cancel anytime
- Listing changes ($25 each)
- Open houses ($25 each)
- Custom yard sign ($49)
Silver: $399
Includes Bronze plan, plus:
- 6-month MLS listing
- Max photos allowed by MLS
- Unlimited listing changes
- Unlimited open houses
- Custom yard sign ($49, money back if you send a selfie with the yard sign)
- Houzeo mobile app
- Houzeo Showings
Gold: $379 upfront + 0.5% at closing (min. $999)
Includes Silver plan, plus:
- Custom premium yard sign
- Houzeo Offers platform
- Federal and state disclosures
- Rush service (draft in 12 hours)
- Personal concierge
- Call forwarding service
- Virtual basic service with licensed broker
Platinum: $349 upfront + 1% at closing (min. $999)
Includes Gold plan, plus:
- 12-month MLS listing
- Listings on additional MLS
- Virtual full service with licensed broker
Houzeo is available nationwide.
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, our partners at Clever 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
- The company offers three affordable options.
- The Starter package charges nothing upfront.
- You choose the buyer’s agent commission.
Cons
- The Starter package includes a cancellation fee if you cancel during the term of the agreement.
- The company charges a portion of the buyer’s agent commission, which could buyer’s steer agents away from showing your home.
- Phone support is only available at higher price points.
Starter: 0.5% at closing
- 6-month MLS listing
- 5 photos
- Email Q&A with a licensed broker
- Live chat support
Basic: $99 upfront + 0.5% at closing (or just $99 through Clever)
Includes Starter plan, plus:
- 15 photos
- 2 listing changes
- Email support
- Lead caller ID
- No cancellation fee
Deluxe: $139 upfront + 0.5% at closing (or just $250 through Clever)
Includes Basic plan, plus:
- 25 photos
- 4 listing changes
- Phone support
- Optional “for sale” sign
- Call forwarding
Premium: $249 upfront + 0.5% at closing (or just $450 through Clever)
Includes Deluxe plan, plus:
- 45 photos
- Unlimited listing changes
- Sales agreement form(s) review
- 30-minute broker form review
- Buyer qualification information
Unreal Estate is available nationwide, excluding South Dakota.
Listing Fee
Overview
Service packages
Availability
FSBO.com is not worth the money it charges, and we don’t recommend it for most sellers. While it advertises two plans — one for $99.95 and the other for $399.95 — we don’t recommend the $99.95 package since it won’t get you on the MLS. We can’t stress this enough: An MLS listing is all but essential when selling a home since it’s how you’ll get your listing on sites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Redfin.
If you want an MLS listing with FSBO.com, you’ll have to pay for the $399.95 plan, which is expensive for a simple MLS listing service. That makes FSBO.com poor value for the money, especially given that you’ll have to pay even more money for most add-ons.
FSBO Package: $99.95
- 6-month FSBO.com listing (not MLS listing)
- Unlimited photos and one video
- 24/7 access to edit or cancel listing
- Free Redfin.com listing in some markets
- FSBO.com “for sale” sign ($60)
MLS Package: $399.95
- 6-month MLS listing
- 20 photos
- Allows listing changes
You can buy yard signs, directional arrows, brochures, and other marketing materials separately from the FSBO.com store after you place your package order.
In some counties, the company takes 0.1% of the buyer’s agent commission at closing.
FSBO.com is available nationwide.
Who do flat fee MLS listing services work best for?
Flat fee MLS services are best for home sellers who want to sell without a realtor but need the marketing exposure the MLS provides.
Some service packages include only a basic MLS listing and leave the rest of the selling process to the seller. This type of package might work for you if you’re experienced with real estate sales.
Other service packages offer more assistance with the sale, which you might need if you’re not as experienced. For example, Unreal Estate in Iowa offers a 30-minute broker form review, and Next Generation Realty offers agent assistance with the closing process.
While these extra services may be helpful, they’re not a replacement for the time and attention you’d receive from a full-service agent.
Top alternatives to flat fee MLS listing services in Tennessee
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 this type of company, a local agent will list your home on the MLS and provide the localized expertise to help you sell for your asking price. And 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 Iowa’s real estate laws and FSBO paperwork requirements.
» LEARN MORE: How to sell without a realtor in Iowa
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 Clever Real Estate. Clever gives you the opportunity to interview multiple full-service agents until you find the right fit. All of Clever’s 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 Iowa?
In Iowa, we recommend Unreal Estate for its affordable pricing and PROmetro Realty for its high-end features. Learn more about other flat fee MLS companies in Iowa.
Do I have to offer a buyer's agent commission in Iowa?
We recommend offering a competitive buyer's agent commission. This will incentivize buyer's agents to show your home to their clients. In Iowa, the average buyer's agent commission is 2.70%.
How do I get on the MLS in Iowa?
You can get on the MLS in Iowa 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 2.5–3% 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 Iowa home selling guides
How to Sell a House without a Realtor in Iowa: 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 Iowa: 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 Iowa: “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.
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