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Edited by Jessica Johansen
Written by Jon Stubbs
Edited by Jessica Johansen
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 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, 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
| Company | Our Rating | Listing Fee | Availability | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Best for sellers wanting full-service options
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18 reviews
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$375–579 upfront to 2% at closing
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North Carolina and South Carolina
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Learn More |
|
152 reviews
|
$125–875
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NC, SC, VA
|
Learn More |
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53 reviews
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$299–399
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South Carolina
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Learn More |
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112 reviews
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$95
|
AZ, CA, FL, GA, IL, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, NY, OH, SC, TN, TX, VA, WA, WI
|
Learn More |
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4,500+ reviews
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$329–379 upfront + percentage at closing
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Nationwide
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Learn More |
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587 reviews
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$99 to $599 upfront + 1% at closing
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AL, CA, CT, FL, GA, IL, MN, NC, SC, TX
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Learn More |
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72 reviews
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$499–999
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Nationwide
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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 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 Clever Real Estate. Clever negotiates 1.5% listing fees with top local agents at brokerages like Keller Williams and Berkshire Hathaway. You get a full-service realtor to do the heavy lifting 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.
Flat Fee Listing: $549 upfront
- 6-month MLS listing (free extension)
- 48 photos
- Listing changes
- Lead forwarding
- ShowingTime
Other services vary by county. The company recommends a 3% buyer’s agent fee.
Full Service Option 1: $549 upfront + 1% at closing
Includes Flat Fee Listing plan, plus:
- Max photos allowed by MLS (photos provided by a CRS associate)
- Comparative market analysis
- The company handles all paperwork and negotiations
- Lockbox
- Yard or window sign
- Home warranty option
- Required 3% buyer’s agent fee
Full Service Option 2: 2% at closing
Includes same services as Full Service Option 1 plan
Carolina Realty Solutions is available in the following markets:
North Carolina
- Asheville and surrounding areas
- Charlotte and surrounding areas
- The Triad
- Hickory/Catawba Valley
- The Triangle
South Carolina
- Charleston
- Hilton Head
- Rock Hill/Fort Mill
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.
Basic Bundle: $125
- 3-month MLS listing
- 6 photos
- Listing changes ($10 each)
- “For sale” sign ($45–60)
- Lockbox ($100 + $100 deposit)
- You choose buyer’s agent commission
Standard Bundle: $195
Includes Basic Bundle, plus:
- 6–month MLS listing
- 16 photos
- Free listing changes
- Sample purchase contracts
- Email and phone support
- Lead forwarding
- Scheduling and showing feedback
Enhanced Bundle: $295
Includes Standard Bundle, plus:
- 12–month MLS listing
- Max photos allowed by MLS
- Contract transaction management through RELAY
Full Service Bundle: $875
Includes Enhanced Bundle, plus:
- List until sold
- Required contracts and disclosures
- Full support with contracts, inspections, repair requests, negotiations, closing, and more
A Contracts, Negotiations, and Closing Bundle is available as an add-on for $295 upfront plus $1,300 at closing.
United Brokers LTD is available in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia.
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.
Silver package: $299
- 12–month MLS listing
- Max photos allowed by MLS
- Listing changes ($25 each)
- Signs ($25 each)
Gold package: $399
Includes Silver package, plus:
- Unlimited contract reviews with a licensed realtor
- Advice on sales strategy, counter offers, inspections
- Sales contracts written (if needed)
iSave Realty is available across South Carolina.
Listing Fee
Overview
Service package
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
- 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.
MLS Listing: $95
- 12-month MLS listing
- 25+ photos
- 10 listing changes
- Yard sign (sign post rental $99+)
- Open house kit
- Comparable sales
- Home value report
- Call forwarding
- Cancel anytime
- Lockbox rental ($125)
- Pro photography (cost varies)
- Help with forms (cost varies)
Homecoin is available in AZ, CA, FL, GA, IL, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, NY, OH, SC, TN, TX, VA, WA, and WI.
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
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.
- Customer service is available in English and Spanish via phone, chat, and email.
- All plans include a listing until sold and the max photos allowed by the MLS.
Cons
- A comparative market analysis is included only with the Concierge Service.
- Agent support is included only with the Concierge Service.
Basic Package: $99
- List until sold
- Max photos allowed by MLS
- Unlimited listing changes
- Open house scheduler
- Home visit manager tool
- Access to legal forms and disclosures
- Customer service in English and Spanish
Enhanced Package: $399
Includes Basic plan, plus:
- 25 professional HDR photos
- Customizable flyers and brochures
- Personalized yard sign
- Printable promotional items
- Open house package
- Craigslist easy click and share ad
- Virtual tour YouTube video
- Listing featured on beycome.com
Concierge Service: $599 upfront + 1% at closing (min. $999)
Includes Enhanced plan, plus:
- Comparative market analysis
- Home valuation service and pricing assistance
- Full marketing support
- Immersive 3D tour
- Full negotiation and paperwork support
- Dedicated closing coordinator
beycome operates in AL, CA, CT, FL, GA, IL, MN, NC, SC, and TX, although its Enhanced Package isn’t available in CA or MN, and its Concierge Service isn’t available in CA, CT, MN, or TX.
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.
Pros
- Both plans include a lockbox, sign, and access to a showing scheduling platform.
- The South Carolina branch gets consistently positive customer reviews.
Cons
- If you cancel after 24 hours, you don’t get a refund.
- The company doesn’t offer a cheap basic package.
MLS Only: $499
- 6-month MLS listing
- 15 photos
- Contracts, addendums, and disclosures
- Sign
- Lockbox
- Email support
- Showing appointment service with feedback
Full Service: $999
Includes MLS Only package, plus:
- 12-month MLS listing
- Max photos allowed by MLS
- Market analysis
- Sales contract review
- Full agent support, including with negotiations
- E-sign contracts
Flat Fee Group is available nationwide.
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 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 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?
We recommend offering a competitive buyer's agent commission. This will incentivize buyer's agents to show your home to their clients. In South Carolina, the average buyer's agent commission is 2.81%.
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 2.5–3% 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 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.
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