7 Flat Fee MLS Companies in Michigan to Sell Your FSBO Home
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McCoy Worthington, Contributing AuthorClose
McCoy Worthington Contributing AuthorMcCoy Worthington is a freelance writer and full-time copywriter. His professional experience branches across magazine writing, PR, social media, and content marketing. He’s passionate about learning, education, and telling the stories of people and companies around the world.
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Richard Haddad, Executive EditorClose
Richard Haddad Executive EditorRichard Haddad is the executive editor of HomeLight.com. He works with an experienced content team that oversees the company’s blog featuring in-depth articles about the home buying and selling process, homeownership news, home care and design tips, and related real estate trends. Previously, he served as an editor and content producer for World Company, Gannett, and Western News & Info, where he also served as news director and director of internet operations.
If you’re selling your house in Michigan, you probably want to keep costs as low as possible to maximize your take-home profit. That might have you considering a For Sale By Owner (FSBO) approach to avoid paying agent commissions. This route typically involves using a flat fee multiple listing service (MLS) to increase property visibility online. But is opting for a flat fee MLS Michigan service better than working with a traditional real estate agent?
Although it offers significant savings, the FSBO option isn’t for all sellers. In this article, we’ll break down the details you’ll need to know before deciding whether it’s right for your situation.
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What is a flat fee MLS listing service?
A flat fee MLS listing service lets homeowners pay a one-time fee to list their property on the MLS without hiring a full-service real estate agent. The MLS is a database that real estate agents use to match buyers with available homes and gives sellers broad visibility by sharing their listings with a large network of real estate professionals. Most listings on sites like Zillow and Realtor.com come directly from the MLS.
Even when the real estate market was red-hot, most sellers relied on the MLS to reach buyers. Only licensed real estate agents can access and post listings on a local MLS, but several companies in Michigan and other states provide MLS services for a flat fee. These flat fee MLS companies enable FSBO sellers in Michigan to bypass the traditional agent and get their home included in the MLS.
How much does a flat fee MLS service cost in Michigan?
Flat fee MLS services vary in price, depending on the perks you want and how much assistance you need. Most companies will offer a basic package that lists your house on the MLS.
From there, the company might charge for everything from longer time on the MLS and higher photo allotments to broker assistance, yard signs, lock boxes, or other features. In general, flat fee MLS services in Michigan cost approximately $95 to $2,000.
Flat fee MLS listing companies in Michigan
Here’s a comparison of some flat fee MLS listing companies in Michigan.
Modern Way Realty
Modern Way Realty provides a reliable flat fee MLS listing service designed to give homeowners greater control and substantial savings. Clients work directly with the company throughout the entire process, without involvement from referral networks.
With flexible listing options, ranging from do-it-yourself to full service, sellers can tailor their experience to match their needs and budget. On average, FSBO sellers save $12,800 partnering with Modern Way Realty.
Service areas: Throughout Michigan
- Basic: $395 for a six-month listing term, up to 40 photos, real estate forms and disclosures, personal property page, showing time setup, and unlimited price changes
- Premium: $895 for Basic inclusions, offer and contract review, electronic contract signatures, closing statement review, and listing to closing assistance.
- Platinum: $995 for Premium inclusions, comparable market analysis, addition of unlimited open houses to MLS, addition of a virtual tour to MLS, and unlimited listing changes
Thanks to several positive customer testimonials, Modern Way Realty has earned 5 out of 5 stars on Google. Clients say the company delivers an impressive home-selling experience at a fraction of the usual cost.
Many highlight the team’s responsiveness, which helped them feel at ease with the transaction. Sellers especially appreciate the flat-fee model, describing it as a smart, budget-friendly choice that doesn’t compromise on service or results.
Website: modernwayrealty.com
Phone: 734-219-5615
Unreal Estate
Unreal Estate is a modern platform designed to empower FSBO (For Sale By Owner) sellers with the tools and flexibility to sell their homes independently. Sellers can easily create a listing by setting a price, uploading photos, and adding property details, all without the need for a traditional listing agent.
The platform allows users to choose their own buyer’s agent commission, typically between 1% and 3%, which is only paid upon a successful sale. To help sellers succeed, Unreal Estate offers expert tips on staging, marketing, and preparing the home for showings.
Service areas: All 49 states (except South Dakota), including Michigan, and Washington D.C.
- Basic: $99 for two free listing or price edits, up to 15 photos, and lead caller ID
- Deluxe: $249 for Basic inclusions, four listing or price edits, 25 listing photos, and call forwarding
- Premium: $449 for Deluxe inclusions, unlimited listing or price edits, maximum MLS listing photos, and buyer qualification information
Unreal Estate boasts a strong 4.6-star rating on Google, with many reviewers applauding the company’s excellent value and flexible options. Clients often mention the platform’s budget-friendly pricing and its commitment to putting sellers first.
Reviews highlight how Unreal Estate empowers homeowners by offering greater control throughout the selling process while maintaining high-quality support.
Website: unrealestate.com
Phone: 866-534-3726
Kermath Realty
Kermath Realty promises a flat fee MLS listing service that provides the same exposure and marketing as traditional local agents. Beyond cost savings, the company delivers expert guidance on pricing, marketing strategies, and ongoing support to help sellers connect with the right buyers.
With over 30 years of experience in the industry, the company brings a strong understanding of the local market and seller needs.
Service areas: Throughout Michigan
- Bronze: $299 for a six-month listing term, up to six listing photos, a printable color flyer, and a regular yard sign
- Silver: $399 for Bronze inclusions, contracts, addendums, and disclosures, up to three open house postings, and combo key box
- Platinum: $389 (plus 0.5% at closing) for Silver inclusions, sold comparables report, negotiations, and digital signatures
- Gold: $998 for full realtor service
Since 2017, Kermath Realty has been accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB). It currently holds an A+ rating from the bureau, and its Google Business Profile has 4.4 out of 5 stars.
Clients say the service delivers impressive results for savvy sellers, often attracting multiple competitive offers in a short amount of time. Many appreciate the substantial savings on commission fees and the potential for offers above appraised value. The platform is frequently praised for empowering homeowners to take control of their sale without sacrificing profit.
Website: kermathrealty.com
Phone: 734-649-4903
Coverage Realty
Coverage Realty helps homeowners list their properties on the MLS without paying full agent commissions. The company offers an affordable package for budget-conscious homeowners.
Listings typically go live within 24 to 48 hours after receiving the completed paperwork and property photos. By making homes visible to buyers and real estate agents, Coverage Realty ensures broad exposure without the high costs of traditional representation.
Service areas: St. Clair, Chesterfield, Harrison, and Macomb
Flat fee: $99 for a 12-month listing term, up to 35 photos, unlimited price and status changes, forms and disclosures, and a property website
Committed to excellent service, Coverage Realty has achieved a high review score of 5 out of 5 stars on Google. Clients say working with the team made selling their home quick and stress-free.
They appreciate the prompt communication, clear guidance, and ability to simplify the process. Many highlight the savings from the flat-rate commission model, which allowed them to keep more from the sale.
Website: coveragerealty.com
Phone: 586-231-1349
Houzeo
Houzeo is a fully digital home-selling platform designed to simplify real estate transactions while maximizing savings. It offers a streamlined experience that enables sellers to manage showings, receive offers, and track activity entirely online. Clients can save money by avoiding traditional commission fees, all while maintaining control and convenience throughout the process.
Listings go live quickly, and users benefit from fast edits and updates at no additional cost. The platform does not charge cancellation fees, allowing sellers to proceed with confidence and flexibility.
Service areas: Throughout Michigan
- Silver: $249 (plus 0.5% at closing) for a six-month listing term, up to 24 photos, unlimited listing changes, unlimited open houses, and yard sign
- Gold: $299 (plus 1% at closing) for Silver inclusions, maximum photos allowed, contract review, premium yard sign, and seller disclosures
- Platinum: $349 (plus 1.2% at closing) for Gold inclusions, 12-month listing term, call forwarding, and virtual full-service with licensed broker
Garnering over a thousand reviews, Houzeo has earned an average score of 4.9 out of 5 stars on Google. While it’s a high rating, the customer testimonials were a mixed bag.
Some describe standout service from particular team members who went above and beyond to provide patient, thorough assistance during a frustrating application process. Others, however, express disappointment with changes to Houzeo’s pricing model and delays in listing updates, pointing out slow replies from the team.
Website: houzeo.com
Phone: 844-448-0110
ISoldMyHouse.com
ISoldMyHouse.com is a long-standing for-sale-by-owner platform that gives Michigan homeowners a cost-effective alternative to traditional real estate services. Founded in 1997, the company has helped sellers successfully list and market their homes without relying on an agent, offering a proven way to retain more at closing.
Through its flat fee MLS listing service, ISoldMyHouse.com ensures homes receive the same online exposure as listings handled by agents. Sellers can cut commission costs by at least half or eliminate them entirely if the buyer is unrepresented.
Service areas: Throughout Michigan
- Get listed: $299 for a six-month listing term, up to 10 photos, open house scheduling, and lead forwarding
- Get sold: $399 for Get Listed inclusions, 12-month listing term, and up to 30 photos
Since 2018, ISoldMyHouse.com has been accredited by the BBB, and it currently holds an A+ rating from the bureau. Clients say the company makes the FSBO process surprisingly simple and rewarding.
With easy-to-follow resources, responsive customer support, and user-friendly tools, sellers feel empowered to manage their own sale. Many highlight how little effort it took to get listed and close the deal while saving thousands in commission fees.
Website: isoldmyhouse.com
Phone: 855-283-0001
Homecoin
Homecoin provides an efficient, seller-friendly platform designed to simplify the MLS listing process for FSBO homeowners. By digitizing the unique listing forms required by each MLS, Homecoin enables users to complete all necessary paperwork quickly and securely online.
The service includes e-signatures, easy photo uploads, and a listing agreement structured to protect the seller’s interests. With a focus on transparency, convenience, and control, Homecoin empowers homeowners to market their property professionally while saving significantly on commission fees.
Service areas: Over 20 states, including Michigan
Flat fee: $95 for a 12-month listing term, up to 25 photos, 10 changes, disclosure forms, showing management, and automatic call and email forwarding
Based on over a hundred reviews, Homecoin scored 4.6 out of 5 stars on Google. Clients say the company offers a smooth and efficient FSBO solution.
The platform is praised for its user-friendly setup, prompt listing updates, and ability to get homes in front of more buyers through major real estate websites. Many note quick sales and appreciate the control Homecoin gives throughout the process.
Website: homecoin.com
Phone: 888-400-2513
Which Michigan sellers benefit most from a flat fee MLS service?
Flat fee MLS services may seem like a simple home-selling tool, but they aren’t made for all sellers. According to Justin Glover, a top-selling real estate agent in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the sellers who benefit most from flat fee MLS services are already comfortable selling homes on their own and understand the work that goes into FSBO sales.
“I would say someone who maybe has some background in real estate and contracts would be better suited to do a flat fee MLS listing than someone who has no experience with reading contracts, negotiating, and buying and selling homes,” he explains.
At the same time, Justin Glover says flat fee MLS services aren’t a good fit for sellers who lack time or knowledge about selling homes.
“If you’re willing to give up the service to do a flat fee and just get it on the market and deal with everything yourself, then just be prepared for that,” he says. “And if you’re willing to give up the quality of the way the listing looks and how it’s presented to the market to save money on a flat fee, be prepared for that.”
Pros and cons of using a flat fee MLS listing service
Here are a few of the biggest pros and cons of using a flat fee MLS listing service:
Pros
- You can save on real estate agent commissions.
- You have more control over your home sale.
- Your home is listed as an FSBO seller on the MLS and major search sites.
Cons
- While no longer required due to new commission rules, you may still need to pay the buyer’s agent commission to lock down a sale, which can be 2% to 3% of a home’s final sale price. This will depend on your buyer’s needs and your negotiations.
- You’ll manage every aspect of the sale, which can be stressful and time-consuming. You need to conduct a comparative market analysis, set pricing, prepare your home for the sale, field calls from potential buyers, negotiate, and fill out paperwork, in addition to other responsibilities involved in selling your home.
- If you don’t understand local disclosure requirements and laws, you could expose yourself to legal risk.
Alternatives to a Flat Fee MLS Service
Flat fee MLS services can be great for experienced FSBO sellers, but they aren’t the best option for everyone. Fortunately, if you’re unsure about using a flat fee MLS company to sell your home, you have options. Here are some alternatives:
Option 1: Flat fee real estate agents
With flat fee real estate agents, you gain the help of a licensed agent and can avoid paying a listing agent’s traditional commission. Instead of taking a commission, a flat fee real estate agent asks for a one-time payment upfront.
You’ll still be paying for the agent’s services, but this route lets you pay a chunk of money at the beginning of your sale. That way, you’ll know how much money you’ll be pocketing at the end of the sale.
However, it’s important to realize that flat fee agents don’t have the incentive of commission to motivate them. That means they may not work as hard to negotiate or land the most profit possible from your home sale.
Also, keep in mind that some sellers still consider paying the standard buyer’s agent fees, despite the new rules on agent commissions. This strategy attracts more buyers and expedites home sales, but it reduces the savings potential.
Option 2: Cash-for-homes companies
If you want to sell your home fast and aren’t as concerned about receiving top-dollar for your house, you can seek a cash offer from a house-buying company. When you sell for cash, you can sell quickly without handling much of the prep work that typical home sales require. The downside to selling for cash is that you may not receive as high of a price as you could if you listed your home on the market.
One easy and convenient way to sell your home fast for cash is to use HomeLight’s Simple Sale platform. This tool allows you to bypass repairs, showings, and commissions, as it presents a cash offer in 24 hours.
You’re under no obligation to accept offers, but if you do, this method makes it possible to close in as few as 7 days. HomeLight has one of the biggest networks of cash buyers in the country.
Option 3: Discount real estate brokers
If you go with a discount real estate broker, you’ll likely still need to pay a commission. However, discount real estate brokers tend to take lower commissions than full-service agents. They usually provide basic real estate services, such as listing your property on the MLS, marketing, and managing paperwork.
These low-cost brokers can be a solid choice if you want to trim costs. Just remember that they tend to make up for low commissions by plowing through as many jobs as possible.
That means they may not give you the same attention and support as a full-service real estate agent. Moreover, you may still be compelled to cover the buyer’s agent’s commission to draw in prospective buyers, so don’t forget to factor in that cost when you’re crunching the numbers.
Option 4: Full-service real estate agents
A final and often most cost-effective alternative is hiring a full-service real estate agent. If you hire a full-service real estate agent, you’ll end up paying a commission. However, top-selling agents will handle marketing, market research, pricing, negotiations, paperwork, and other critical home-selling tasks.
Even though you pay commission to these professionals, they usually can secure a higher price on your home than you might receive with other options.
Jay Glover, another top-selling agent who works in partnership with Justin Glover in Grand Rapids, explains, “If we can get your home listed and do all the things that we do and use all our tools, we might be able to net you an even higher amount even after paying a higher commission because we’re going to reach a broader audience. We’re going to prepare your home better […], point out things that we might think are flaws in the home before even putting it on the market, and […] make sure it’s a 10 out of 10 when it’s time to actually list it.”
Data suggests that sellers who lean on a real estate agent’s help often end up making more money on sales in the long run. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the typical FSBO home sold for $380,000 compared to $435,000 for an agent-assisted home sale.
What’s more, experienced real estate agents may be able to increase your profit. Homelight data found real estate agents that perform in the U.S.’s top 5% sell homes for as much as 10% more than average real estate agents.
One of the easiest ways to find a top-selling agent in your area is to use HomeLight’s Agent Match platform. Our platform searches the Michigan housing market and finds real estate agents with a proven track record for selling homes in your area.
Feeling Overwhelmed by the Process of Listing Your Home FSBO in Michigan?
If you don’t have the time or the expertise to list your home FSBO, working with a top agent in Michigan could be your best bet. HomeLight analyzes over 27 million transactions and thousands of reviews to find you the best agent for your unique situation.
Sell your Michigan home with confidence
Regardless of your selling option, you’ll want to list your home on the MLS to reach serious buyers. A flat fee MLS allows you to list your house without much outside help.
Still, if you’re new to selling on your own, it’s important to understand everything that goes into a FSBO sale and to consider your options carefully. By digging into the specifics of your situation and understanding all the tools you have at your fingertips, you’ll be ready to sell your home in Michigan confidently.
Editor’s note: This post is for educational purposes only. Links and mentions of Michigan flat fee MLS companies in this post do not constitute an endorsement. Moreover, the program details mentioned above may change. Visit the flat fee MLS listing company’s website for the most up-to-date information.
Header Image Source: (Aaron Burden / Unsplash)
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.