Best flat fee MLS listing services for South Carolina | 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 multiple listing service (MLS) for a one-time fee starting around $100–400. You get the same basic visibility as you would selling with a realtor, without having to pay 2.5–3% to a listing agent.
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 listing 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, South Carolina 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 South Carolina 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?
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 a minimum, a flat fee MLS package should include photos and a short description of the property. Most basic packages include 6+ photos and a 3–12 month listing term.
Higher-priced service packages tend to offer more assistance with the sale, which you might need if you're not as experienced. For example, Houzeo offers virtual broker assistance to help you with offers, contracts, and closing. The plan costs $329 upfront, plus an additional 1% at closing.
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’ll likely be better off with a full-service discount realtor, which you can find through a free service like Real Estate Witch. We negotiate 1.5% listing fees with top agents at brokerages like Keller Williams and Berkshire Hathaway. You get all the hands-on support you need while still saving thousands on realtor fees.
How much do flat fee MLS services cost?
In South Carolina, the flat fee MLS listing services we reviewed have entry-level packages starting at $99. These basic packages are geared toward FSBO sellers who just need to get their home on the MLS.
Many South Carolina companies also have higher-tier packages ranging from $399 to $999, sometimes with an extra percentage due at closing. These packages include extra services like professional photography, pricing support, and virtual broker assistance through negotiations and closing.
Typically, the cheaper the plan, the less that’s included. And you often have to pay extra for useful features, such as lock boxes, additional photos, and unlimited changes to your listing. For example, United Broker LTD's $125 basic plan includes only 6 photos with your listing, plus a $10 fee per listing change. To get the maximum number of photos allowed by the MLS, you'll need to upgrade to the $295 plan.
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 South Carolina flat fee MLS listing services: Full breakdown
Listing Fee
Overview
Service packages
Availability
Carolina Realty Solutions has offered flat fee listing services in North Carolina and South Carolina since 2003. Because of this experience, the company has a good understanding of the local markets within these states.
In South Carolina, it has one flat fee package with services that vary by county. Check the company website to see which services are available in your area.
Carolina Realty Solutions also offers full service with two pricing options. You can choose to pay an up-front fee and a percentage at closing or just a percentage at closing.
Pros
- Carolina Realty Solutions is an award-winning company with an established market presence.
- You can cancel anytime for free.
- Leads are forwarded directly to you.
Cons
- The company doesn't offer a cheap basic package.
- You must pay a buyer’s agent commission with the full-service packages.
Listing Fee
Overview
Service packages
Availability
United Brokers LTD stands out among flat fee MLS listing services. It has a strong foothold in the regional markets it serves, and it consistently gets 5-star customer reviews.
Since bundles span from basic to full service, you can choose the level of support you want.
Optional add-ons include a lockbox, "for sale" sign, and help with contracts, negotiations, and closing. If you want the latter add-on, you'll probably get better value from the Full Service Bundle.
Pros
- The company offers a range of packages with different price points and levels of support.
- The company is established, with 35+ years in operation.
- Customers love the quality of the phone and email support.
Cons
- The Basic Bundle has a very limited listing term and photo allowance and charges for each listing change.
- For all bundles, you have to pay extra for a lockbox and a "for sale" sign.
Listing Fee
Overview
Service packages
Availability
Compared to some competitors, iSave Realty offers a generous basic plan. This Silver package includes a 12-month listing and the maximum number of photos allowed by the local MLS. The Gold package is also good value considering the level of agent support you get.
However, iSave Realty charges $25 for listing changes, which many companies provide for free.
The company has a flexible cancellation policy, but you won't get a refund once your property is listed on the MLS.
Customer reviews consistently note responsive staff and quick sales.
Pros
- The basic package includes a 12-month listing and max photos.
- The company exclusively serves South Carolina and has local market expertise.
- Customers reviews consistently mention the helpful staff.
Cons
- You have to pay $25 for each sign and listing change.
- There are no refunds after a property is listed on the MLS.
- The website gives limited information upfront.
Listing Fee
Overview
Availability
Homecoin offers one low-cost MLS listing package and many à-la-carte services to customize it. This option is ideal for experienced FSBO sellers who know exactly what services they need. However, the add-ons are more expensive than competitors. If you think you need add-ons like a lockbox or yard sign, another FSBO website might be a better pick.
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
- Comprehensive Real Estate Comps Report with comparable sales, property details, and market trends
- 12-month listing term with unlimited photos
- Fully online listing management
Cons
- No full-service option for additional support
- Add-on costs can accumulate quickly
Listing Fee
Overview
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
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 South Carolina, local agent Bob Mandel gets consistent five-star reviews for his expertise and local knowledge. Flat Fee Group in this state has an A+ Better Business Bureau rating.
You can choose from two listing packages that offer useful features like a lockbox and online appointment scheduling. However, its listing plans start at $499, which is a high starting point compared to other companies on this list.
You can cancel your listing anytime unless your home is under contract. If you cancel within the first 24 hours, you get a refund minus a $25 fee. After 24 hours, there are no refunds.
Top alternatives to flat fee MLS listing services in South Carolina
Discount real estate brokers | FSBO without the MLS | Flat fee real estate agents
Sell with a discount real estate broker
A top discount real estate broker provides the same level of service as a traditional real estate agent — 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 South Carolina's real estate laws and FSBO paperwork requirements.
» LEARN MORE: How to sell without a realtor in South Carolina
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 South Carolina?
In South Carolina, we recommend United Brokers LTD for its range of support levels and Homecoin for its straightforward pricing. Learn more about other flat fee MLS companies in South Carolina.
Do I have to offer a buyer's agent commission in South Carolina?
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 South Carolina?
You can get on the MLS in South Carolina 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 South Carolina home selling guides
How to Sell a House without a Realtor in South Carolina: 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 South Carolina: 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 South Carolina: "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.