5 Flat Fee MLS Companies in Knoxville
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Joseph Gordon EditorClose
Joseph Gordon EditorJoseph Gordon is an Editor with HomeLight. He has several years of experience reporting on the commercial real estate and insurance industries.
In Knoxville, many For Sale By Owner (FSBO) sellers struggle to gain attention. Listings on the multiple listing service (MLS), where most buyers search, are usually restricted to licensed agents. The good news is that flat fee MLS Knoxville services bridge the gap by offering MLS access for a set fee, ensuring your home gets seen without heavy commission costs.
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While beneficial, using a flat fee MLS service isn’t the right fit for every seller. While it can help you save on listing agent fees, you’ll still handle pricing, marketing, negotiations, and closing details yourself. In this guide, we’ll break down how flat fee MLS services work in Knoxville, their costs, pros and cons, and alternative selling options to help you decide the best approach for your home sale.
What is a flat fee MLS listing service in Knoxville?
A flat fee MLS listing service allows FSBO sellers in Knoxville to list their homes on the local MLS without hiring a traditional listing agent. The MLS is a database used by real estate professionals to share property listings, making it an important tool for reaching buyers and their agents. Since most home search websites pull listings from the MLS, having your home included can significantly increase visibility.
Only licensed real estate professionals can list properties on the MLS, but flat fee MLS services provide FSBO sellers with access for a one-time fee. This allows homeowners to market their property widely while avoiding the typical 2.5% to 3% listing agent commission. However, sellers must still handle showings, negotiations, and paperwork on their own.
How much does a flat fee MLS service cost in Knoxville?
The cost of a flat fee MLS service in Knoxville can vary widely depending on the company and the level of service you choose. Some services charge as little as $150, while more comprehensive plans can cost several thousand dollars.
Lower-cost plans typically include only MLS access, while higher-tier options may provide additional features like professional photos, marketing tools, or a comparative market analysis to help price your home competitively.
Before selecting a service, it’s important to compare pricing and features to ensure you’re getting the level of support you need. In the next section, we’ll highlight some of the flat fee MLS companies available to Knoxville home sellers.
Flat fee MLS listing companies in Knoxville
Scout Realty
Scout Realty aims to remove traditional commission structures and put more control back in the hands of homeowners. Launched in January 2013 as a conventional brokerage, the company closed 1,500+ deals totaling more than $500 million in sales and earned national recognition. In January 2020, Scout reinvented its model into a full-service, flat-fee brokerage that reduces expenses and maximizes seller returns.
Service areas: Knoxville
Pricing not disclosed, but the plans include professional photos, open house, and email and social media marketing
Scout Realty earned a high average review score of 4.8 stars on Google. Clients say the team delivered excellent results, describing them as knowledgeable and professional from start to finish. Many appreciate the fixed-fee pricing, which helped them achieve higher net proceeds compared to traditional commission-based models. Others commend how the staff managed home sales in a challenging market.
Website: scoutrealty.com
Phone number: 615-868-9000
Martin Properties
Martin Properties helps homeowners sell their homes without paying high real estate commissions by offering flat fee MLS listings. It ensures every property gets seen on the MLS and major real estate websites while guiding sellers throughout the process.
With flexible flat fee options, homeowners can save money while still getting professional marketing and support. The company focuses on making selling simple, efficient, and stress-free.
Service areas: Knoxville, Nashville, and Middle Tennessee
- Economy: Free for a three-month listing term and up to 10 listing photos
- Standard: $250 for a six-month listing term, up to 25 listing photos, and access to forms
- Best Value: $395 for a 12-month listing term, up to 30 listing photos, state disclosures, and lead forwarding
Trusted for its professional real estate services, Martin Properties achieved a 4.2-star Google rating. Clients say that using the firm’s MLS-only listing service was a game-changer for selling their home. Some report that after struggling with other platforms, listing with Martin Properties generated immediate interest, multiple showing requests, and fast offers.
Sellers appreciate the straightforward process and the ability to communicate directly with buyer agents, allowing them to save thousands in commission fees. Overall, users find the service efficient, cost-effective, and highly recommended for FSBO transactions.
Website: tnflat-feemls.com
Phone number: 615-973-8970
ByOwner.com
ByOwner.com, established in 1996, provides homeowners with an affordable alternative to conventional real estate services. It enables sellers to list their properties on the MLS for a flat fee, expanding exposure to a wide pool of buyers while reducing commission costs.
The flat fee MLS company designed its listing packages to be cost-effective, catering to sellers mindful of their budget. Its services give homeowners greater control over important aspects of the sales process.
Service areas: Nationwide, including Knoxville
Listing fee (price varies by location): $195 for a six-month listing term, up to 50 listing photos, professional yard sign, brochures, and real estate forms and contracts
ByOwner.com has earned an A+ rating from the BBB and a 4.1-star rating on Google, reflecting its commitment to ethical business practices. Sellers report that the platform simplifies the home-selling process, often enabling transactions to close within a few months. They praise the responsive support and clear guidance provided throughout, describing the service as dependable, user-friendly, and an efficient way to sell a property.
Website: byowner.com
Phone number: 800-296-9637
Results MLS
ResultsMLS provides homeowners with an affordable and efficient alternative to traditional real estate commissions through flat fee MLS listings. Licensed agents give sellers direct access to the MLS while offering three service packages tailored to different needs, all for a fixed fee.
With over 15 years of industry experience, the company is dedicated to helping clients maximize savings and maintain control throughout the selling process. ResultsMLS has assisted in more than 14,500 home sales and saved sellers over $1 million in commission costs.
Service areas: 50 States, including Tennessee
- MLS Marketing: $199 (with an additional $99 monthly for hosting fee) for a six-month listing term, up to 10 listing photos, and contract and transaction documents in PDF
- Agent Support: $399 (with an additional $99 monthly for hosting fee and 0.5% compliance fee at closing) for a 12-month listing term, maximum number of listing photos, unlimited listing changes, contract and transaction documents in digital format with signatures, marketing asset templates, and yard sign
- Local Full Service: $7,500 for negotiable listing term, full marketing service, and professional photography
ResultsMLS earned a high review score of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews. Past sellers commend the company for providing an effective way to gain exposure and attract buyers without the high cost of a traditional Realtor.
Many note how questions are answered quickly, and support is always available when needed. The service is described as straightforward, reliable, and a smart choice for those wanting to save money while selling their home.
Website: resultsmls.com
Phone number: 615-488-2094
Homecoin
Homecoin simplifies the FSBO process by converting each local MLS’s unique paperwork into a streamlined digital format, allowing home sellers to complete their listings quickly and easily. The platform is built with seller protection in mind, offering clear, fair agreements that prioritize transparency and trust.
By removing unnecessary hurdles and confusion, Homecoin empowers homeowners to take control of their sale without compromising on support or security.
Service areas: Tennessee and other states, including Arizona, California, Florida, New York, and Wisconsin
- Basic: $149 (MLS listing fee) for a 12-month listing term, up to 25 MLS photos, 10 listing changes, disclosure forms, showing management, and automatic call and email forwarding
- Review: $99 + MLS listing fee for Basic inclusions, listing review, one hour of live support via phone and screenshare, and a dedicated staff member
- Full Service: $299 + MLS listing fee for Review inclusions, kickoff call, and listing creation
Add-ons:
- MLS listing help: $99 or $299
- Professional photography: Starts at $182
- Lockbox rentals: $125
- Post rental: $99+
- Seller’s agent: $149 per hour or $2,999 flat
Given the company’s commitment to excellent service, Homecoin received a high average score of 4.4 stars on Google. Clients say the company makes the FSBO process remarkably simple and efficient.
With easy access to MLS listings and fast updates, sellers appreciate the smooth experience and broad online exposure across major real estate platforms. Many report selling their homes quickly and commend Homecoin for offering a cost-effective, user-friendly alternative to traditional real estate services.
Website: homecoin.com
Phone number: 888-400-2513
How would a Knoxville seller benefit from a flat fee MLS service?
A flat-fee MLS service can be a smart choice for Knoxville homeowners looking to cut costs on their home sale while still gaining MLS exposure. It allows sellers to skip the typical 2.5% to 3% listing agent commission and keep more of their sale proceeds.
This option works best for sellers with homes in high-demand areas or those who have prior experience selling a home. However, going FSBO requires time, effort, and attention to detail throughout the sale. Here’s what you’ll need to handle when selling your home with a flat fee MLS service:
- Set the selling price.
- Write a compelling listing description.
- Take photos and market your home in various channels.
- Manage disclosures.
- Coordinate showings, open houses, and review offers.
- Negotiate the contract.
- Handle closing costs.
- Calculate your net proceeds.
- Manage the appraisal and inspection process.
- Pay transfer taxes.
- Handle required documentation.
Pros and cons of using a flat fee MLS listing service
Before choosing a flat fee MLS listing service, Knoxville home sellers should weigh the benefits and drawbacks of this approach. While it can save money on listing agent fees, it also requires significant effort on the seller’s part.
Pros:
- No listing agent commission: Keep the 2.5% to 3% of your home’s sale price that would normally go to the listing agent.
- Full control: You manage pricing, marketing, and negotiations.
- Upfront, known costs: Unlike traditional commissions, fees are set in advance.
- Broad exposure: Your home appears on the MLS and third-party real estate websites.
- More buyers: The service expands visibility to buyers and their agents.
Cons:
- Buyer’s agent commission: Depending on negotiations, you may feel compelled to cover the buyer’s agent fee, which is 2.5% to 3% of the sale price, to sweeten the deal.
- More responsibility: Pricing, marketing, and negotiations fall entirely on you.
- Potential legal risks: Handling disclosures and contracts incorrectly can lead to issues.
- Less buyer trust: Some buyers prefer working with an agent-led listing.
- Lower sale price: FSBO homes often sell for less than agent-assisted sales.
How do I list my home with a flat fee MLS service?
Once you decide to use a flat fee MLS listing service, follow these steps to get your FSBO home on the MLS:
Step 1: Research flat fee MLS services: Compare local flat fee MLS providers in Knoxville. Look at pricing, included services, and customer reviews. Check the BBB to ensure the company is reputable.
Step 2: Choose a package and register: Visit the provider’s website, select the service package that fits your needs, and pay the upfront fee.
Step 3: Submit your listing details: Enter information about your home, including square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and special features. Upload high-quality photos and, if applicable, complete any disclosure forms.
Step 4: Sign the listing agreement: Carefully review and sign the listing agreement. Make sure you understand the cancellation policy and confirm that you won’t owe a commission to the listing company.
Step 5: Review your live listing: Once published, check how your listing appears on the MLS and third-party sites like Zillow and Realtor.com. Some listings may take a few days to populate. Confirm that your contact details are correct so buyers and agents can reach you.
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Are flat fee MLS listings effective in Knoxville?
A flat fee MLS listing can be an effective way to market your Knoxville home. Since most buyers start their home search online, having your property listed on the MLS ensures it appears on major real estate websites where buyers and their agents look for homes.
Buyers’ agents rely on MLS data to find properties that match their clients’ needs, making MLS exposure a key factor in a successful home sale. However, while a flat fee MLS listing boosts visibility, FSBO sellers should be prepared to handle pricing, showings, negotiations, and paperwork on their own.
Alternatives to flat fee MLS services in Knoxville
If a flat fee MLS service doesn’t seem like the right fit for your home sale, here are a few other options to consider:
- Flat fee real estate agent: A flat fee real estate agent lists and sells your home for a set rate rather than charging a percentage of the sale price. These fees typically range from $3,000 to $5,000, but additional services may come at an extra cost. This option provides some agent support while still offering savings compared to a full-service commission.
- Discount real estate brokers: A discount real estate broker charges a lower commission than traditional agents, often around 1% to 2% of the sale price. While more expensive than a flat fee MLS service, they typically offer more hands-on assistance with marketing, pricing, and negotiations.
- Full-service real estate agent: For sellers who want expert guidance, working with a full-service Realtor provides comprehensive support, including pricing strategy, marketing, and negotiation expertise. While commission costs are higher, an experienced agent can often help sell a home faster and for a higher price.
Will I save money with a flat fee MLS listing service?
Using a flat fee MLS listing service can reduce commission costs, but it may not always result in higher overall savings. While you’ll skip the listing agent’s commission, you may still need to cover the buyer’s agent commission to sweeten the deal, and at the same time, pay additional costs associated with marketing and selling your home.
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), FSBO homes sell significantly less than those sold with an agent. The median FSBO sale price is $360,000, compared to $425,000 for homes sold with an agent. While a flat fee MLS service can help cut listing costs, sellers should consider the potential impact on their final sale price before choosing the FSBO route.
What if I need to sell my Knoxville home fast?
If you need to sell your home quickly, you have a few options beyond a flat fee MLS listing. Working with a We Buy Houses company or an iBuyer can provide a fast sale, often closing in days. However, these companies typically pay less than market value, meaning you may walk away with a lower profit.
Another option is HomeLight’s Simple Sale, which connects sellers with pre-approved cash buyers. This can speed up the selling process while still allowing you to compare offers and choose the best fit for your situation. If time is your top priority, these alternatives could be worth exploring.
What else should I know about selling a house in Knoxville?
While using a flat fee MLS listing service can simplify getting your home on the market, sellers must still comply with Tennessee’s real estate laws. Knoxville home sellers are required to complete disclosures about the condition of their property. Additionally, hiring a real estate attorney is advisable to help with contracts and legal paperwork, reducing the risk of costly mistakes.
Here are some additional points to consider:
- Upfront charges: Unlike traditional agents, you pay regardless of whether the home sells.
- Varying services: Some flat fee companies frequently change names, making it difficult to track success rates.
- Direct buyer communication: Most services include the seller’s contact info in the listing, meaning you’ll handle inquiries and negotiations.
- Minimal guidance: Many services don’t provide ongoing support, unlike a local real estate agent.
- Commission costs: While you save on the listing agent’s fee, you may still need to offer a buyer’s agent commission.
Ready to sell your Knoxville home?
If you’re considering selling your Knoxville home with a flat fee MLS listing service, here are the key takeaways:
- Flat fee MLS services allow FSBO sellers to list their homes on the MLS without hiring a listing agent.
- Costs vary widely, from around $150 to several thousand dollars, depending on the level of service.
- You may still need to pay a buyer’s agent commission and handle pricing, marketing, negotiations, and paperwork on your own.
- FSBO homes often sell for less than agent-assisted sales, meaning savings on commissions don’t always result in higher profits.
- If you need to sell quickly, alternatives like an iBuyer or cash buyer program, like Simple Sale, may be better options.
Selling FSBO requires time, effort, and real estate knowledge. If you’re unsure whether a flat fee MLS service is right for you, HomeLight can connect you with a top-performing local agent who can help you maximize your home’s value while keeping costs in check.
Header Image Source: (imphot / Deposit Photos)
Editor’s note: This post is for educational purposes only. Links to and mentions of Knoxville area flat fee MLS companies are not endorsements. Moreover, the program details mentioned above may change. Visit the company’s website for the most up-to-date information.
At HomeLight, our vision is a world where every real estate transaction is simple, certain, and satisfying. Therefore, we promote strict editorial integrity in each of our posts.
