5 Flat Fee MLS Companies in Milwaukee
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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.
Selling your Milwaukee home yourself can limit your exposure to buyers. Because the multiple listing service (MLS) is typically for licensed agents, your property might go unseen. Fortunately, there’s a workaround. Using a flat fee MLS Milwaukee service lets you list on the MLS for one set cost, keeping your home visible while saving on agent commissions.
This guide explores the pros and cons of using a flat fee MLS service in Milwaukee and outlines available providers, their offerings, and pricing. We also go over some alternatives and explain how the process works to help you decide if these services are right for you.
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What is a flat fee MLS listing service in Milwaukee?
A flat fee MLS listing service is a pivotal tool for homeowners opting to sell their property For Sale By Owner (FSBO). This service enables sellers to list their home on the MLS, a comprehensive database of properties for sale, traditionally accessible only through licensed real estate agents.
The MLS is the heart of the real estate market, showcasing homes to a network of buying agents and ensuring broad exposure to potential buyers.
By choosing a flat fee MLS service, Milwaukee homeowners can secure a spot on the platform without enlisting a full-service real estate agent, thereby bypassing the conventional commission fees.
This approach not only widens the visibility of their property but also puts them in direct control of the selling process, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional real estate listings.
How much does a flat fee MLS service cost in Milwaukee?
The cost of a flat fee MLS service in Milwaukee can cost anywhere from under $100 to a few thousand dollars, mostly depending on what services and features each company includes.
While the more budget-friendly options provide basic listing capabilities, the pricier packages are often packed with additional features, such as enhanced listing exposure and marketing tools. Some of the higher-end services include a comparative market analysis, offering valuable insights into pricing your home competitively in the local market.
Flat fee MLS listing companies in Milwaukee
Flat fee MLS listing companies in Milwaukee vary in pricing, services, and package features. Taking time to compare what each company offers can help you find the best fit for your budget and selling goals. Here are some of the top firms you may want to consider:
Milwaukee Flat Fee Homes
Milwaukee Flat Fee Homes is a trusted flat fee MLS company that helps homeowners market their properties on the local MLS and hundreds of real estate websites. For a fixed cost, the team delivers comprehensive real estate services, including receiving and presenting all offers directly to sellers.
They guide clients through strategy discussions and manage negotiations on their behalf. This approach ensures homeowners receive professional support throughout the selling process while saving money.
Service areas: Milwaukee County, Waukesha County, Racine County, Washington County, Ozaukee County, Walworth County, Kenosha County, Sheboygan County, and Manitowoc County
Listing fee: $3,000 ($500 upfront fee and $2,500 closing fee) for a six-month listing term, professional photography, market analysis, yard sign, and in-person consultation
Milwaukee Flat Fee Homes has a strong reputation with a 4.6-star Google rating. Clients say the company consistently delivers positive results over numerous transactions, helping sellers keep more of their proceeds compared with traditional brokers.
Some commend the team’s expertise and professionalism, while others appreciate that once the listing goes live, the team handles showings and updates, allowing clients to focus on other matters until a formal offer is presented.
Website: milwaukeeflatfeehomes.com
Phone number: 414-482-5050
Lake Country Flat Fee
Lake Country Flat Fee originated in 2002 with the launch of a real estate brokerage focused on providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional companies. Its initial “By Owner” brand quickly gained popularity, establishing the company as a leading discount and flat fee real estate provider in Southeast Wisconsin.
Over time, the model evolved into a full-service flat fee approach, leading to the creation of Lake Country Flat Fee in 2014. The company now offers homeowners professional, full-service listings with experienced Realtors. This approach helps clients save roughly half of traditional agent commissions.
Service areas: Southeastern Wisconsin, including Milwaukee
Listing fee: $3,995 for professional photography, yard sign, comparative market analysis, free listing changes, showing coordination, and buyer inquiry management
Lake Country Flat Fee has been accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) since 2014 and holds an A+ rating. Its Google Business Profile features a 4.9-star score, with customers highly recommending their professional services.
Clients praise the team for clear, timely communication through email, text, and phone, as well as professional guidance throughout the process. Several reviewers note the high-quality photos and inviting listing, which helped attract buyers and achieve a sale well above asking price. The team is described as knowledgeable, responsive, and supportive.
Website: lakecountryflatfee.com
Phone number: 262-567-5700
Standard Real Estate Services
Founded in 2006, Standard Real Estate Services is a prominent flat fee MLS company in Wisconsin, helping FSBO sellers complete transactions without agent commissions. In its first year, the company listed more than 100 properties, establishing a strong presence in the market.
Over the years, its approach has helped homeowners save more than $4 million in commissions. Standard Real Estate Services continues to provide sellers with an affordable alternative to traditional brokerage fees.
Service areas: Throughout Wisconsin, including Milwaukee
- Silver: $399 for a three-month listing term, up to 25 listing photos, buyer lead forwarding, and access to seller forms
- Gold: $799 for a 12-month listing term, up to 35 listing photos, yard sign, showings coordination, combination lockbox, and ShowingTime app
- Platinum: $300 (+ 1.25% at closing) for listing term until sold, up to 50 listing photos, premium sign, detailed market analysis, and closing coordination
Standard Real Estate Services maintains an A+ rating from the BBB. Customer feedback on Google and Facebook is mixed. While some express frustration over the company’s limited accessibility, noting challenges in reaching someone directly and frequent automated hang-ups, others highlight positive experiences, praising the team’s helpful guidance, expertise, and responsiveness to questions throughout the process
Website: listwithstandard.com
Phone number: 800-776-2145
Homecoin.com Milwaukee
Homecoin is a flat fee MLS service that gives homeowners a cost-effective way to market their properties. Listings are placed on the MLS and shared across major real estate websites, boosting visibility to a wide pool of buyers. With flexible pricing packages, sellers maintain control over important parts of the process, such as setting the price, managing showings, and handling negotiations.
Service areas: Wisconsin and 20 other states
- Basic: $95 for a 12-month listing term, up to 25 photos, 10 free listing changes, and disclosure forms
- Review: $99 + $95 (MLS listing fee) for Basic inclusions, listing form review, up to 1 hour of live support via phone and screenshare
- Full Service: $299 + $95 (MLS listing fee) for Review inclusions, up to 1.5 hours of live support, kick-off call, and dedicated staff member
With a 4.4-star rating on Google, Homecoin has built a reputation for providing an accessible and affordable listing service. Many sellers find the platform easy to navigate, making it a practical choice for those who want to manage their home sale without relying on an agent.
Users frequently mention the substantial savings compared to traditional methods, while others emphasize its straightforward process that works well across multiple transactions. Reviewers recommend the company’s services as a reliable and cost-effective solution for selling a property.
Website: homecoin.com
Phone number: 888-400-2513
List With Freedom
With over 20 years of experience and more than 100,000 properties listed nationwide, List With Freedom has helped homeowners save millions in traditional commissions while maximizing exposure. Homes are typically placed on the MLS within 24 hours, giving sellers immediate visibility. Listings are also syndicated to top real estate websites, ensuring they reach a wide network of potential buyers.
Service areas: Nationwide, including Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Gold: $89 (+ 0.5% at closing) for a six-month listing term, up to 25 listing photos, automated price valuation, unlimited changes, and listing forms and disclosures
- Platinum: $195 (+ 0.25% at closing) for Gold inclusions and the maximum number of listing photos
- Platinum Plus: $395 (+0.25% at closing) for Platinum inclusions, 12-month listing term, professional yard sign, open house directional signs, virtual tour, and personal transaction coordinator
List With Freedom has earned high marks from clients, holding a 4.7-star rating on Google. Sellers report that the platform is simple and efficient, making the overall experience smooth and supportive.
Clients appreciate how quickly listings go live and how promptly the team responds to questions. The company’s attentive and detail-oriented customer service consistently helps make the process easier from beginning to end.
Website: listwithfreedom.com
Phone: 855-456-4945
How would a Milwaukee seller benefit from a flat fee MLS service?
Choosing a flat fee MLS service in Milwaukee can be a good fit for sellers trying to save on real estate commission fees while maintaining control over their home sale. By bypassing a traditional licensed agent, sellers pay a one-time flat fee rather than a commission, potentially saving thousands of dollars.
This can be appealing if you’re confident in your property’s appeal in a vibrant market and you’re prepared to handle the sale’s nuances directly.
However, note that selling your home FSBO with a flat fee MLS service puts most of the responsibilities on you as the seller. If you’re up for the challenge of selling your home FSBO, here’s what to expect to manage on your own:
- Use market data to price your home accurately.
- Craft an appealing listing description and take professional photos.
- Market your property online and offline.
- Make the required disclosures.
- Coordinate property showings.
- Manage offer negotiations and contract terms.
- Calculate closing costs and net proceeds
- Address any appraisal or inspection issues.
- Handle transfer taxes.
- Gather necessary documentation.
Pros and cons of using a flat fee MLS listing service
Using a flat fee MLS listing service comes with both upsides and downsides. Before deciding if it’s the right move for your home sale, it helps to weigh the pros and cons.
Pros
Using a flat fee MLS listing service for your FSBO sale in Milwaukee offers several benefits, including:
- No listing agent commission: This usually costs 2.5% to 3%, translating into significant savings.
- Autonomy in the sale process: You represent yourself, giving you full control over all aspects of the sale, from pricing to negotiations.
- Fixed, upfront costs: Pay for the listing service at a known cost without any hidden fees.
- Broad exposure: Listing your home on the MLS and popular third-party websites increases visibility to traditional buyers and their agents.
Cons
However, there are drawbacks to consider when selling FSBO with a flat fee MLS listing service, such as:
- Buyer’s agent commission: Although you save on the listing agent’s commission, you may still need to offer a commission to the buyer’s agent, depending on negotiations.
- Sole responsibility for sales management: Handling potential issues, negotiations, and closing processes falls entirely on you, which can be daunting without experience.
- No expert guidance: Navigating the sale without the advice of a local real estate expert means you’re on your own, which can be challenging for those unfamiliar with the process.
- Potentially lower sale price: Homes sold without a traditional real estate agent often fetch a lower sale price.
- Legal risks: FSBO sellers may face higher exposure to liability claims and other legal risks without the protective buffer of an experienced agent.
How do I list my home with a flat fee MLS service?
Listing your Milwaukee home with a flat fee MLS service involves a straightforward process. Here’s how to ensure your FSBO home is successfully listed on the MLS:
- Vet the flat fee MLS service: Start by researching your options. Evaluate the services based on their packages, rates, and customer feedback. Check Google reviews and the company’s standing on the BBB to get insights into their reliability and customer experiences. Confirm listing package details, such as the number of photos you can upload, the extent of property information you can list, which forms are included, and the cost of any optional add-ons.
- Register and select a plan: Visit the chosen company’s website, complete the registration process, choose the package that fits your needs, and pay the service fee upfront.
- Enter your property information: Fill in detailed descriptions of your property and upload high-quality photos. If available, complete the disclosure form provided by the service to ensure transparency and compliance with local regulations.
- Read and sign your listing agreement: Carefully review and sign the listing agreement with the flat fee MLS service. Make sure the agreement allows you to cancel without penalty and confirms you won’t owe a listing commission.
- Review your live listing: After your listing goes live on the MLS, it will also appear on major real estate platforms like Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com, though it might take a few days to be visible. Check your listing on these sites to ensure accuracy and completeness, making any necessary adjustments to present your home in the best light.
Are flat fee MLS listings effective in Milwaukee?
In Milwaukee, using a flat fee service to get your home on the local MLS can be a smart move. Almost all buyers start their search online, and most listings they see come straight from the MLS, which means your home shows up where people are actually looking.
On top of that, buyer’s agents rely on the MLS to find homes for their clients, so it’s a key way to get in front of the biggest pool of buyers. With MLS listings feeding into both online searches and agent networks, it’s one of the most effective tools for selling your home today.
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Alternatives to flat fee MLS services in Milwaukee
If a flat fee MLS service doesn’t seem like the perfect fit for your Milwaukee home sale, consider these alternatives:
- Flat fee real estate agent: A flat fee real estate agent offers a blend of autonomy and professional guidance, charging a flat rate (typically $3,000 to $5,000) for a defined set of services. This could be ideal if you desire more control over your sale but still seek expert assistance. Make sure you understand exactly what’s included and any potential additional costs by reviewing your contract thoroughly.
- Discount real estate broker: These brokers or companies work for a reduced commission, often providing basic services at a higher cost than flat fee MLS listings but less than traditional agents. Depending on negotiations, you might also pay for the buyer’s agent commission. Understand the pros and cons of low-commission agents before deciding.
- Full-service, local real estate agent: For a comprehensive, hands-off approach, a full-service Realtor can manage your sale from listing to closing. They bring in-depth market knowledge, professional networks, and the expertise to navigate the sale for the best possible outcome, often justifying their commission through the value they add.
Will I save money with a flat fee MLS listing service?
Using a flat fee MLS listing service in Milwaukee can indeed save you money on commission fees upfront. However, weighing this immediate saving against potential longer-term outcomes is crucial.
According to research by the National Association of Realtors, FSBO homes tend to sell for less than those sold through an agent. While the median FSBO selling price is $380,000, agent-assisted sales are at $435,000.
This stark difference suggests that while flat fee MLS services offer significant initial savings, the final profit from an FSBO sale might be lower when compared to using a traditional real estate agent.
What if I need to sell my Milwaukee home fast?
If selling fast is your top priority, exploring options like “We Buy Houses” companies or an iBuyer can offer a swift solution. These entities are known for quick transactions, often agreeing to purchase your home in a matter of days and in virtually any condition.
While the convenience is unparalleled, be aware that these fast-track methods usually result in a lower sale price than the open market. Yet, for those under time constraints, the trade-off can be worth the speed of sale.
For those seeking a balance between speed and value, HomeLight’s Simple Sale platform provides a quick selling process or connects sellers with local agents who can offer additional sales pathways, tailored to your unique situation and timeline.
What else should I know about selling a house in Milwaukee?
When selling a house in Milwaukee with a flat fee MLS service, you’ll still need to follow local disclosure laws. Hiring a real estate attorney isn’t required, but it can make things a lot easier by helping with contracts and paperwork. And, it might save you from legal headaches later.
Here are some additional points to remember:
- Flat fee MLS services require payment upfront, which isn’t contingent on the house selling, unlike commissions for traditional agents.
- Some flat fee services may frequently change their names, making it difficult to track their reliability or success rates.
- Listings often include the seller’s contact information, placing more responsibility on you to manage communications.
- Unlike with a traditional agent, there might not be a dedicated professional to guide you through the process when using a flat fee service.
- While flat fee services offer a fixed rate, the fees for traditional agents are negotiable.
Ready to sell your Milwaukee home?
Selling a house can feel like a full-time job. A traditional agent handles a lot of the work for you, while FSBO sellers have to do it all themselves, which can be overwhelming. Using a flat fee MLS service can take some of that stress off by offering different levels of support, but it’s worth thinking carefully if saving on commissions is your main goal.
You’ll likely still need to cover the buyer’s agent commission and MLS service fees, and you might sell your property for less than if you had worked with a traditional agent. If you’re ready to take the next step, HomeLight can connect you with a local agent to make your Milwaukee home sale smoother and easier.
Editor’s note: This post is for educational purposes only. Links to and mentions of Milwaukee 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.
Header Image Source: (12019/Pixabay)
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