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Written by Steve Nicastro
Editor's note: In March 2024, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) lost an antitrust lawsuit, leading to changes in real estate fees nationwide. As of August 17, 2024, buyer's agent commissions are no longer covered by the seller and must be negotiated separately.
Listing Fee
Our take
Service packages
Availability
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 provide less value than other FFMLS services
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.
Unreal Estate is a flat fee MLS listing service platform that offers for sale by owner (FSBO) services in 28 states and Washington, DC. It serves five more states through its subsidiaries, including US Realty.
Unreal Estate’s three flat fee service plans — Basic, Deluxe, and Premium — range from $99–$249. It also has a Starter plan, where you pay a percentage of the home sale price once your house sells.
Regardless of your Unreal Estate plan, you’ll also need to pay a buyer’s agent commission of 1%–3%. Unreal Estate makes its money by taking 0.5% of that commission. However, you can eliminate that 0.5% fee using our Unreal Estate partnership.
If you’re a real estate novice, you may be in over your head as a FSBO seller with Unreal Estate. But like other FFMLS companies, it could meet your needs if you’re willing and able to handle the complicated details of a home sale yourself.
👋 Sell FSBO and save thousands on agent commission List your house for sale using Unreal Estate today for as low as $99.
JUMP TO: Unreal Estate at a glance | Locations | Reviews | Service quality | Costs | Top competitors | Next steps | Methodology
Unreal Estate at a glance
| Our rating | 3.9/5 |
| Unreal Estate reviews | 4.3 |
| Service quality | 3.8 |
| Cost | 3.7 |
| Ratings based on a 1–5 scale, with 5 being the best. Learn more about our methodology. | |
Unreal Estate service area
You can sell your home using Unreal Estate in the states shaded blue in the map below.
Unreal Estate reviews
| Company | Average rating (out of 5) |
|---|---|
| Google (96 reviews) | 4.6 |
| BBB (5 reviews) | 4.2 |
| Trustpilot (139 reviews) | 4.2 |
| Yelp (9 reviews) | 2.9 |
| Weighted average | 4.3 |
Unreal Estate reviewers report mixed experiences. Note: Our analysis includes reviews of USRealty.com, the former name for Unreal Estate.
Reviewers on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot agree that Unreal Estate offers value. Sellers boast about saving thousands of dollars in fees by using Unreal Estate’s FFMLS service, even after paying the customary 3% buyer’s agent commission.
Unreal Estate has repeat customers from sellers who don’t mind showing and managing the sale of their own property.
Reviewers on Trustpilot and Google complain about hidden fees. Sellers say charges for making changes to listings blindsided them or when they had a delay submitting their paperwork. One user was surprised by a $350 standard fee at closing. Another complained that Unreal Estate hid that it takes a 0.5% share of the buyer’s agent commission.
Yelp and Trustpilot reviewers report varied experiences with customer service. On one hand, customers say Unreal Estate agents were quick to respond by email or over the phone to address mistakes in an MLS listing. Customers also appreciate having a licensed broker involved in the deal to help with paperwork.
Other reviewers say they experienced a lack of communication and follow-up from the Unreal Estate team, even once a property had gone under contract; some reviewers found this particularly frustrating in the evenings or over the weekends, which are popular times for offers and inquiries.
» READ: Flat Fee MLS Listing Companies: Everything You Need to Know
Unreal Estate service quality
| Pros: • Each service plan gets your home listed on the MLS • Premium plan includes unlimited listing edits and 45 photos • Listings last for at least six months |
| Cons: • Only the premium plan meets all of our key service quality standards • Basic plan allows only two free listing changes • Details of Concierge service are difficult to find |
Each of Unreal Estate’s four plans meets our most important service criteria: listing your house on your local MLS and pushing your listing to real estate sites like Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com. Your listing should appear on the MLS within 48 hours of completing the necessary forms.
» MORE: Why it’s important to list your home on the MLS
But only the Premium plan meets all of our key service quality standards. In addition to listing your home on the MLS, the Premium plan includes unlimited listing or price edits and 45 listing photos.
We evaluated Unreal Estate’s plans on several metrics.
Amount of photos
Only Unreal Estate’s Platinum plan approaches our ideal of including the maximum allowable photos with your listing. The maximum number of photos allowed will depend on your local MLS. Here’s the breakdown of the number of photos Unreal Estate allows in each plan:
| Plan | Photos allowed |
|---|---|
| Starter | 5 |
| Basic | 15 |
| Deluxe | 25 |
| Premium | 45 |
Number of listing changes
Again, only the Platinum plan meets our service quality standard of unlimited free listing changes. Otherwise, Unreal Estate stacks up as follows.
| Plan | Listing changes allowed |
|---|---|
| Starter | Unclear on the Unreal Agent website |
| Basic | 2 |
| Deluxe | 4 |
| Premium | Unlimited |
Duration of listing
Each plan includes a six-to-12-month MLS listing. The specific duration depends on your local MLS.
Unreal Estate nice-to-have services
Unreal Estate offers nice-to-have services like For Sale signs and social media marketing through its Concierge service ($599). Unreal Estate’s site offers few details about this service, but from the information provided it may not be worth the added cost compared to other top FSBO websites.
Unreal Estate costs
| Pros: • List your home on the MLS for no money upfront with the Starter plan • Choose from three affordable flat fee options • Select the amount of commission you’ll pay a buyer’s agent |
| Cons: • None of the packages offer the maximum number of listing photos allowed • Except with the Platinum plan, there’s a cap on free listing changes • You can get more band for your buck with other FFMLS providers |
Unreal Estate has four pricing plans, ranging from $0–$249. Each plan includes a listing on the MLS, which will be syndicated on Realtor.com, Zillow, and other popular real estate sites.
Starter plan
The Starter plan costs $0 upfront, but you’ll have to pay 0.5% of your home sale price when the home sells. You don’t pay anything if your home doesn’t sell. But you’ll pay a cancellation fee if you cancel before the end of your agreement term.
In addition to the 6–12 month MLS listing, Unreal Estate’s Starter plan includes just five photos. We recommend a FFMLS option that includes the maximum allowable photos.
Unreal Estate’s Starter package has a better value than Fizber’s similar package, which doesn’t support an MLS listing.
Basic plan
Unreal Estate’s Basic plan costs a flat fee of $99 (plus 0.5% of the sale price) for a 6–12 month MLS listing, plus 15 listing photos. There’s no fee if you decide to cancel and hire an agent.
But this Basic package doesn’t meet some of the competition. Beycome’s comparable offering, for instance, includes an unlimited MLS listing term and the maximum number of photos allowed.
Deluxe plan
For $139 (plus 0.5% of the sale price), the Deluxe plan gets you a coveted MLS listing for 6–12 months along with automated call forwarding from Unreal Estate’s office phone system to your phone. In addition, you’ll get 25 photos with your listing.
List With Freedom’s similarly priced package includes a six-month MLS listing term and six photos.
Premium plan
The Premium plan costs $249 (plus 0.5% of the sale price). In addition to the MLS listing and 45 photos, you’ll get a 30-minute review of your sales contracts and related forms. The plan also includes buyer qualification information, access to sales agreement forms, and unlimited edits to the listing.
List With Freedom’s similar package offers a 12-month listing term and the maximum number of photos allowed for $295.
Concierge service
The FAQ section of Unreal Estate’s website includes a hard-to-find reference to a concierge service that costs $599. The service includes For Sale signs and social media marketing, but the website offers no other details. It’s difficult to determine its value.
Costs after paying your plan’s flat fee
Unreal Estate’s four main plans require paying a buyer’s agent commission of 1%–3%. That goes for the $0 Starter plan and each flat fee plan.
You can choose how much commission you want to offer an agent to bring you a buyer. Be aware, though, that a buyer’s agent is unlikely to bring their client your way if you lowball the fee you’ll pay.
» LEARN: Why Should Sellers Pay Buyer’s Agent Commission?
Each of Unreal Estate’s plans also charges a 0.5% fee to the buyer agent. That’s how Unreal Estate makes its money. It keeps a portion of the buyer’s agent commission.
👋Try Unreal Estate with our pre-negotiated rates
We’ve secured flat rates that eliminate Unreal Estate’s 0.5% cut of the buyer’s agent commission for three of Unreal Estate’s plans. Because the buyer’s agent gets all of the commission, they have more incentive to bring you a buyer! Here’s what you’ll pay*:
- Basic plan: $99
- Deluxe plan: $250
- Premium plan: $450
List with Unreal Estate for as low as $99.
* In Colorado, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming you’ll also pay a closing fee.
Unreal Estate vs. top competitors
| Company | Our Rating | Availability | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Best for attracting FSBO buyers
Fizber |
100+ reviews
|
Nationwide
|
Learn More |
Homecoin |
7,000+ reviews
|
18 states
|
Learn More |
Houzeo |
9,000+ reviews
|
Nationwide
|
Learn More |
beycome |
600+ reviews
|
10 states
|
Learn More |
Listing Fee
Our take
Overview
Reviews
Fizber shines as a cost-effective, straightforward platform for FSBO sellers aiming for MLS listings with various service levels. While the low upfront costs are appealing, mixed reviews about customer service and aggressive sales tactics are worth considering. Before deciding, compare Fizber with other services to find the best match for your selling needs and preferences.
Pros
- Cost-effective
- User-friendly
- Listings get good visibility
Cons
- Mixed service reviews
- Aggressive sales
- Limited support
Fizber has three plans, but only two provide an MLS listing. The plans are affordable, but they come with only the basics. You won’t get agent support or add-ons like yard signs and lock boxes. Additionally, the website contains conflicting information about the plans and pricing, so you may want to clarify offerings with a representative.
Online reviews are mainly good, with most people reporting a good customer experience. However, there’s a risk of getting a broker who’s not a good fit for your sale, as mentioned in some negative reviews.
You can cancel your listing anytime unless the property is under contract. However, the company may charge a cancellation fee in some markets.
Pros
- Big commission savings
- Good listing visibility
- User-friendly
Cons
- Mixed service reviews
- Aggressive sales tactics
- Lack of support
Fizber has a 3.21 average rating across 100+ customer reviews.
- Google: 2.0 (7 reviews)
- TrustPilot: 3.5 (100 reviews)
- Better Business Bureau: 1.36 (11 reviews)
Customers report mixed experiences with Fizber, praising its cost savings and listing visibility but critiquing its customer service and aggressive sales tactics.
While many find value in avoiding traditional realtor fees and enhancing their listing’s exposure, concerns about support and upselling highlight the need for careful consideration before using the service.
» JUMP TO: Fizber customer reviews
Listing Fee
Our take
Overview
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
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
Homecoin has an average customer rating of 4.6 across more than 7,000 reviews.
- Google: 4.6 (70+ reviews)
- Houzeo: 4.6 (7,000+ reviews)
Our review of customer feedback shows that people like how easy and cost-effective Homecoin is. However, a few mentioned they had problems with customer service.
Listing Fee
Our take
Overview
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
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
Houzeo has an average customer rating of 4.9 across more than 10,000 reviews.
- TrustPilot: 4.9 (2,400+ reviews)
- Houzeo.com: 4.9 (8,000+ reviews)
» JUMP TO: In-depth Houzeo review analysis
Listing Fee
Our take
Overview
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
- Some users have reported challenges with customer service
- Services are limited to certain states
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
Beycome has an average customer rating of 4.47 across more than 600 reviews.
- Google: 4.5 (600+ reviews)
- TrustPilot: 3.5 (21 reviews)
- Zillow: 4.6 (22 reviews)
Several reviewers have highlighted a potential issue with Beycome regarding the risk of properties being listed on the incorrect MLS.
» JUMP TO: In-depth Beycome review analysis
Next steps
Unreal Estate might be a FFMLS service worth trying if you’re committed to selling FSBO and you live in one of the states it serves.
Each of Unreal Estate’s plans will get your home listed on a local MLS, which should be the goal of every FSBO seller. However, you’ll need to decide if any of the company’s plans meet the rest of your selling needs.
If you haven’t sold a house without a realtor before or have the time to learn the responsibilities an agent usually manages, explore other options, like the low-commission real-estate service like Clever Real Estate.
Methodology
We evaluated each flat fee MLS (FFMLS) and for sale by owner (FSBO) listing service based on three core criteria and created a weighted score:
Customer experience
Our evaluation:
- Aggregated customer reviews from across the web and created a weighted average rating
- Checked for complaints with the Better Business Bureau
- Evaluated how easy the company app or portal was to use, and how easy it was to upload and manage the listing
Service quality
FFMLS companies should provide basic services, including:
- Listing to your local MLS
- Pushing listings to sites like Zillow and Trulia
- Maximum allowable photos
- Unlimited free listing changes
- Keeping a listing active until you cancel or close on your home
We noted add-on services that actually help you sell and manage your sale, like professional photography or an online dashboard. We didn’t give credit for fluffy offerings, such as video tours that are just photo montages or listings on Craigslist.
Cost
We compared pricing tiers for services with baseline national averages and other brands.
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