When selling your home without an agent, utilizing an MLS listing service like HomeLister can enhance your property's exposure. For a flat fee, HomeLister ensures your house gets listed on the multiple listing service (MLS) – a crucial database utilized by realtors to find homes for potential buyers.
To list properties on the MLS, sellers must use a flat fee MLS service, as only agents have direct access. Studies indicate that 86% of sellers utilize the MLS, making it the leading platform for listing homes, surpassing methods like yard signs. Surprisingly, only 3% of FSBO sellers leverage the MLS, despite it being the primary starting point for most buyers' searches.[1]
However, it's essential to weigh the costs carefully. HomeLister's pricing ranges from $599 to $2,999, significantly higher than similar services typically priced around $200 to $400.
It's also important to remember that selling a home without a realtor requires much effort. You'll still have significant responsibility even if you choose a service with some agent assistance.
Real Estate Witch offers an alternative by matching sellers with full-service agents for a 1.5% listing commission. This option provides savings while still enjoying a traditional agent's comprehensive support and services, including those offered in HomeLister's top-tier package and more.
» JUMP TO: Is HomeLister legit? | How does HomeLister compare? | How it works | Costs | Locations | Customer reviews of HomeLister | FAQ
Is HomeLister Legit?
HomeLister, a legitimate flat fee MLS company, enables homeowners to sell without an agent in Florida and Texas. Founded in 2015 in Santa Monica, CA, by CEO Lindsey McLean and attorney/broker Jennifer Stein, the company has facilitated the sale of over 3,750 homes valued at $1.9 billion, saving clients an estimated $77.5 million.[2]
| Customer rating | 4.8 across 189 reviews |
| Price range | $599-2,999 |
| Locations | FL, TX |
| Listing terms | 6 months |
| A la carte services? | Yes |
Is HomeLister worth it?
HomeLister presents itself as a game-changer, but its competitors have been providing essentially the same services for a much lower cost long before HomeLister came along.
HomeLister's service will definitely cost less than agent commission, especially if your home sells for over $300,000, but so will other companies who price their basic package at $99 compared to HomeLister's $599 cost.
There are other signs that the company isn't really interested in helping you save money. For example, in its a la carte offerings, HomeLister will sell you a combination lockbox for $49, but the exact same model costs $21.99 on Amazon.
How does HomeLister compare to competitors?
HomeLister is more expensive than many other flat fee MLS companies.
If saving money is your top priority, you'd be better off using a company like Unreal Estate or Houzeo, with plans that start at $99.
If you need some extra help, these companies also have more expensive plans that top out at $400–500 and provide similar services as HomeLister's most expensive plans.
Listing Fee
Our take
Details
Reviews
Unreal Estate distinguishes itself in the flat fee MLS listing service market, focusing on For Sale By Owner (FSBO) offerings. Known for its easy-to-navigate platform and strong ustomer service, it allows sellers significant savings by avoiding traditional realtor fees. The company’s professionalism and streamlined process have garnered positive customer feedback, appreciating both the ease of use and the financial benefits.
Pros
- User-friendly platform
- Significant cost savings
- Positive customer reviews
Cons
- Limited marketing resources
- Less personalized support
- May offer less value than competitors
Listing Fee
Our take
Details
Reviews
Houzeo, a flat fee MLS service with a high average customer rating, shows promise in its customer service, particularly during the initial listing setup. However, limited reviews on the complete selling process suggest some challenges, including listing inaccuracies and variable service quality from partner realtors.
While Houzeo’s online dashboard and service plans appeal to FSBO sellers, potential users should weigh these mixed experiences, alongside the service's costs and refund policy, before choosing it for their real estate needs.
Pros
- User-friendly online dashboard
- Positive reviews of its customer service
- Nationwide coverage
Cons
- High fees for some services
- Varied service quality
- Restrictive refund policy
Listing Fee
Our take
Details
Reviews
Homecoin offers a streamlined, flat fee MLS service that stands out for its affordability and simplicity, appealing to sellers who prefer to manage their sale process directly. With a fee of $95, Homecoin makes it possible to list properties on the MLS without the hefty commissions associated with traditional brokerages. The service is praised for its straightforward approach and effectiveness in providing significant commission savings.
However, Homecoin may not provide the full spectrum of services and support some sellers seek. For those needing more comprehensive assistance, including professional photography or hands-on agent guidance, exploring alternatives is recommended.
Pros
- Cost effective service
- Allows sellers to manage their own listing process
- Straightforward, easy-to-use platform
Cons
- Limited support
- Extra services may incur additional charges
- Lacks some of full-service offerings
Listing Fee
Our take
Details
Reviews
Beycome stands out for homeowners who want to sell their homes independently, offering valuable exposure and tools at competitive rates. It has a 4.5-star rating from its customers, and provides a 90-day money-back guarantee, making it a strong contender for those seeking to bypass traditional agent fees.
Particularly suited for experienced sellers across its served states, Beycome’s flat-fee MLS packages provide essential visibility and services. However, it might fall short for first-timers or those desiring more hands-on support. When considering Beycome, exploring other services to ensure the best fit for your selling needs and preferences is wise.
Pros
- Competitive pricing
- Good market exposure
- Money-back guarantee
Cons
- Limited support
- Customer service issues
- Services limited to certain states
Listing Fee
Our take
Details
Reviews
HomeZu's Basic plan offers a straightforward approach with essentials like a six-month listing and ample photo space for a flat fee, ideal for sellers who prefer simplicity. While it's pricier than some competitors, including lead forwarding and easy cancellation add value. However, the one-plan-fits-all approach in most states and commission sharing might not suit everyone, especially those looking for more options or to keep costs low.
Pros
- High photo limit
- Lead forwarding included
- Free cancellation
Cons
- Pricier basic plan
- Commission sharing
Alternatives to flat fee MLS services
If you're comfortable with selling your home yourself, a flat fee MLS service could possibly save you thousands of dollars in listing commission.
However, FSBO statistics show that homes sold without a realtor sell for an average of 5.5% less than those listed with an agent.[3]
Plus, all of the staging, marketing, and negotiation that goes into selling a home is a ton of work — almost like having a part-time job.
Fortunately, getting all of the benefits of having an agent without paying a ton in real estate agent commission is possible. Real Estate Witch can match you with a full-service agent who will list your home for just 1.5%.
How does HomeLister work?
To get started with HomeLister, you'll need to create a free account on homelister.com.
1. Enter your home details. You'll answer some questions about your home's features and enter your asking price.
2. Choose your package. Select the service package that fits your needs. You can also add a la carte services like 3D virtual tours and drone photography.
3. List your home. Your home will be listed on the local MLS, as well as websites like Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com.
4. Show your home. Set up open houses and showings by directly communicating with buyers and their agents.
5. Sell the home. Once you start receiving offers, you can accept or send counteroffers.
6. Schedule closing. Coordinate the closing date with the buyer and their agent. You can sign all documents digitally.
While the higher-priced tiers offer some assistance with pricing the home, making counteroffers, and reviewing paperwork, you're largely on your own for the entire selling process.
How much does HomeLister cost?
Like most flat fee MLS companies, HomeLister has a few different service tiers available.
One benefit of HomeLister over other flat fee MLS companies is that you can wait until closing to pay—at least for the basic $599 package.
The basic package includes access to ShowingTime, an app that helps schedule showings. Besides this, the basic package has pretty much the same services that competitors offer for $100–300.
The premium package includes paperwork management and offer and counteroffer advice, which would be helpful for those who don't have a lot of experience selling without an agent. Beycome, one of HomeLister's competitors, offers these services in its $599 package.
HomeLister's platinum package has some valuable features, such as a comparative market analysis (CMA), which tells you what other homes in your area are selling for. But for the cost of this package, you could be matched with a realtor who can provide a CMA and all of the other perks that come with a full-service agent.
| Basic | Premium | Platinum |
|---|---|---|
| $599 (due at closing, no money down) | $1,699 ($599 upfront / $1,100 at Closing) | $2,999 ($699 upfront / $2,300 due at closing) |
| All Basic features, plus:
| All Basic & Premium features, plus:
|
Where is HomeLister available?
HomeLister is currently available in Florida and Texas, according to its customer support team. The service was previously available in 16 states and Washington D.C.
Customer reviews of HomeLister
Overall, customers are very pleased with the services they received from HomeLister. The company has an average rating of 4.5 across over 200 reviews. The company has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and only has one registered complaint in the last three years. [4]
| Trustpilot | 4.6 rating across 211 reviews. |
| BBB | 3.91 rating across 11 reviews. |
| Avg. customer rating | 4.51 rating across 222 reviews. |
Save on commission (supposedly)
In many reviews, customers mentioned how delighted they were with the money they saved on commission.
Homelister advertises an average savings of $21,000 and many customers claimed in their reviews they saved much more than this by not having to pay an agent.
However, you have to consider how much work you'll need to do on your own, such as staging and showing your home, negotiating offers and completing the closing paperwork. You might save money, but you'll certainly have to invest time in to selling your home on your own.
Fast closing
Many customers stated in their reviews that they closed on their home within a few weeks to a month after listing.
How quickly you close on your home depends on current market conditions, but according to these reviewers, they didn't take any longer to close than they would have using an agent.
Helpful support
While many reviewers acknowledged they had to do a lot of work independently, customers were pleased with the level of support they received from HomeLister.
Specifically, customers were happy that HomeLister was available to quickly answer any questions and that the company provided required disclosure forms when sellers needed them.
Frequently asked questions
Is HomeLister legit?
Yes, HomeLister is a legitimate company that offers MLS listing services for homeowners who want to sell their home without the help of an agent. There are many other companies who offer the same services, but HomeLister is more expensive than most other MLS services. Find out how HomeLister works.
How much does HomeLister cost?
HomeLister's prices start at $599 for the basic package and go up to $2,999 for the Platinum package. These packages may be less expensive than hiring an agent, but they are more expensive than typical MLS-only services. See what HomeLister's packages include.
Recommended reading
Flat Fee MLS Listing Companies | Everything You Need to Know: Find out if you can really save money by using a flat fee MLS company to help sell your home without an agent.
Best For Sale By Owner Websites: Vuew our recommendations for sites to help you market your FSBO listing.
The Best Discount Real Estate Brokers. Find the best discount real estate brokers for every budget in every state. Compare fees and savings to learn which company is right for you.