5 Flat Fee MLS Companies in Minnesota
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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.
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Sam Dadofalza, Associate EditorClose
Sam Dadofalza Associate EditorSam Dadofalza is an associate editor at HomeLight, where she crafts insightful stories to guide homebuyers and sellers through the intricacies of real estate transactions. She has previously contributed to digital marketing firms and online business publications, honing her skills in creating engaging and informative content.
For homeowners selling through For Sale By Owner (FSBO), getting enough eyes on the property listing is one of the biggest challenges. Since only licensed agents can post on the local multiple listing service (MLS), many FSBO sellers struggle with visibility. Flat fee MLS Minnesota companies address this by allowing you to list your home on the MLS for a set price, increasing exposure while avoiding the high costs of a traditional agent.
This article will dive into the ups and downs of using a flat fee MLS service in Minnesota, highlighting some providers, their operational methods, and the financial implications of their services, along with some alternatives.
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What is a flat fee MLS listing service in Minnesota?
A flat fee MLS service in Minnesota is a boon for homeowners aiming to sell their property FSBO. The MLS is the central database where homes for sale are shared and updated, giving buyers and agents the most accurate, up-to-date information. Because major real estate websites pull their listings from the MLS, it’s the key place for getting a property noticed.
Traditionally, only licensed agents can post on the MLS, but flat fee MLS services make this access available to Minnesota homeowners selling FSBO. This option lets sellers showcase their home to a wider audience while saving on agent commissions.
How much does a flat fee MLS service cost in Minnesota?
The cost of a flat fee MLS service can vary, starting as low as $100 and ranging up to several thousand dollars. The price variation largely depends on the range of features and extras included in the package.
While more affordable plans offer basic listing services, the pricier options provide support, such as additional marketing tools, extended listing durations, and sometimes a comparative market analysis, helping sellers price their homes competitively.
Flat fee MLS listing companies in Minnesota
Pro Flat Fee Realty Minnesota
Founded in 2015, Pro Flat Fee Realty offers homeowners an affordable way to list their properties on the MLS without paying full-service commission rates. The company delivers prompt communication, typically responding to calls, texts, and emails within an hour.
Its team sets accurate pricing strategies upfront, enabling sellers to achieve maximum value while reducing time on the market. The agents are skilled negotiators who work diligently to secure favorable terms for every client. For luxury listings, the company enhances marketing with aerial photography, twilight shoots, 3D virtual tours, and virtual staging.
Service areas: Washington, Ramsey, Hennepin, and Anoka counties in Minnesota, and several counties in Colorado
Listing fee: $3,900 for professional photography, social media marketing, virtual brochure sign, open house advertisement, and lock box
Dedicated to business integrity, Pro Flat Fee Realty earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB). It holds a 4.9-star Google rating backed by numerous positive client reviews. Past sellers praise the team’s deep knowledge of the buying and selling process.
Some express appreciation for how everything was explained clearly and how they were kept involved at each step. Others share that the service delivered the same level of expertise as a top-tier Realtor, while also saving them a significant amount of money.
Website: proflatfee.com
Phone number: 612-998-1919
Home Avenue
Home Avenue offers an alternative to the high costs of traditional Realtor commissions. For more than 30 years, the company has provided a high-service, low-cost process designed to maximize seller savings.
Nearly 30,000 homeowners have already benefited from this approach, saving an average of $10,900 in commissions, according to the company. The flat-fee model ensures professional representation without the burden of inflated costs.
Service areas: Hudson, Saint Paul, Minneapolis, Wright County, Washington County, Scott County, Hennepin County, Dakota County, Carver County, Anoka County, Eden Prairie, Plymouth, Maple Grove, and St. Louis Park
- Basic: $399 for a three-month listing term, up to 10 listing photos, unlimited listing changes, and a fast sign-up process via input forms and e-signatures
- Plus: $698 for a six-month listing term, up to 16 listing photos, yard sign, and open house directional signs
- Showcase: $998 for a 12-month listing term, up to 24 listing photos, MLS listing supplement, professional photo shoot, and email blast to metro Realtors
Home Avenue, accredited by the BBB since 2005, maintains an A+ grade. Its Google Business Profile reflects a high 4.9-star rating, as it earns praise for its valuable guidance throughout the selling process. As past clients received multiple offers above the asking price and savings of thousands of dollars, the team is highly recommended for its transparent pricing and excellent support.
Website: homeavenue.com
Phone number: 952-929-7355
Shift Real Estate
Shift Real Estate empowers home sellers by letting them save thousands in agent commissions and ensuring their property receives full MLS exposure. Its licensed agents comply with all state regulations, providing professional and reliable service throughout the transaction. The team offers responsive, client-focused support to make the process as smooth as possible.
Service areas: Twin Cities, Minnesota
Listing fee: $5,000 for professional photography, pricing guidance, in-ground sign, transaction coordinator, advanced marketing, and open houses
With the confidence of its clientele, Shift Real Estate maintains an A+ BBB grade and a 4.9-star Google rating. The team garners praise for its efficient service and substantial savings. Some express appreciation for the agents’ professionalism, attentiveness, and expertise. Others acknowledge how seamless and stress-free the process was, thanks to the team’s responsiveness.
Website: shift2sell.com
Phone number: 651-224-4663
Byowner.com
ByOwner.com, established in 1996, provides homeowners with an affordable alternative to traditional real estate services. The company specializes in flat fee MLS listings, allowing sellers to showcase their properties to a wide audience while avoiding high commission costs.
This approach empowers homeowners to maintain greater control over their transactions. ByOwner.com’s platform is designed to simplify the selling process while maximizing exposure and savings.
Service areas: All 50 states, including Minnesota
Listing fee (price varies by location): $195 for a six-month listing term, transaction support, color flyer, social media marketing, and video upload
ByOwner.com earned an A+ rating from the BBB and a 4.1-star rating on Google Reviews. Clients say selling a property with the company is quick and stress-free, with many closing sales in just a few months. They highlight the team’s helpful, responsive support and clear guidance throughout the process. Overall, customers find the platform reliable, user-friendly, and a real help when selling their home.
Website: byowner.com
Phone: 800-296-9637
Real Estate Corners
Real Estate Corners has been serving Minnesota homeowners since 2001 as a trusted leader in the flat fee real estate industry. The team consists of licensed real estate professionals dedicated to providing expert guidance and reliable service. They offer a listing package and valuable add-ons, which are designed to maximize savings on agent commissions.
Service areas: Throughout Minnesota
For Sale by Owner Package: $399 for a six-month listing term, up to 24 listing photos, unlimited listing changes, state disclosures, lead forwarding, and home showing electronic services
Additional services:
- 12-month listing term: $200
- Color brochures: $50
- Email blast to local Realtors: $50
- Yard sign: $150
- Open house directory: $25
- Competitor monitoring: $25
- Market analysis: $150
- Transaction facilitator: Up to $2,000
Accredited by the BBB since 2018, Real Estate Corners earned an A+ rating. On Google, it received positive customer testimonials and reflects a perfect average review score of 5 out of 5 stars.
Past customers share that the company provides a smooth and professional home-selling experience, with attentive support and helpful guidance throughout. Many note that the team’s flat-fee service offers everything needed to achieve a strong selling price without added stress. Sellers appreciate the responsiveness and expertise, making them a trusted choice for repeat business.
Website: realestatecorners.com
Phone number: 612-483-1230
How would a Minnesota seller benefit from a flat fee MLS service?
A flat fee MLS service in Minnesota can be a smart choice if you want to save money and take more control of your home sale. Instead of paying the typical 5% to 6% agent commission, you pay a single flat listing fee to get your property on the MLS.
With this approach, you can avoid the listing agent’s commission. And, thanks to recent commission changes from the NAR settlement, buyers are now encouraged to negotiate their agent’s commission directly, potentially reducing your overall costs as a seller even further.
Partnering with a flat fee MLS company can be particularly attractive if you’re confident in your home’s market appeal, wish to stay hands-on throughout the sale, or prefer not to engage with a licensed agent. It’s a path that requires commitment, as sellers take on responsibilities usually managed by agents.
Below are just some of the tasks you can be expected to handle in an FSBO sale:
- Using market data to determine the right selling price
- Crafting a compelling listing description
- Taking high-quality photos of your property
- Marketing your home effectively
- Making necessary disclosures
- Coordinating showings and open houses
- Reviewing offers, making counteroffers, and negotiating terms
- Understanding and discussing the purchase agreement with buyers
- Calculating closing costs and net proceeds
- Handling appraisal or inspection issues
- Managing transfer taxes
- Gathering required documents for selling the house
Pros and cons of using a flat fee MLS listing service
Pros
- Agent commission savings: By not using a listing agent, you eliminate paying their commission, typically between 2.5% to 3% of the sale price.
- Direct control: Handle every aspect of your sale, from marketing to closing.
- Fixed costs: Pay a set fee for the listing service, knowing your expenses upfront.
- Wider exposure: Listing on the MLS and various third-party websites broadens your reach to potential buyers and their agents.
Cons
- Buyer’s agent commission: The buyer may still negotiate with you to cover their agent’s fee, which can affect overall savings.
- Self-managed sale: Managing the sale process, including resolving any issues, falls entirely on you, which can be challenging without expert guidance.
- Potential for mistakes: Without the advice of a local expert, you’re more susceptible to errors that could jeopardize the sale.
- Legal risks: Handling the sale yourself may increase the likelihood of facing legal issues or liability claims.
- Lower sale price: Without a real estate professional’s negotiating expertise and market knowledge, your home may sell for less than it would have if you had engaged one.
How do I list my home with a flat fee MLS service?
- Research the service: Investigate local flat fee MLS services, examining their packages, rates, and reviews. Use resources like Google reviews and the BBB to assess their credibility. Confirm details such as the number of photos allowed, listing information you can include, free forms, and any additional costs for extra services.
- Register and choose a plan: Go to your chosen company’s website, complete the registration process, select your preferred package, and pay the fee upfront.
- Submit your property details: Provide a description of your property and upload photos. If available, complete the disclosure form provided by the service.
- Sign the listing agreement: Carefully read and then sign the listing agreement. Ensure it allows for penalty-free cancellation and confirms you won’t be liable for a listing commission.
- Check your listing: After your listing goes live on the local MLS, it will also appear on real estate websites. This process may take a few days. Reviewing your listing on these sites to ensure accuracy and completeness is essential.
Are flat fee MLS listings effective in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, leveraging the local MLS through a flat fee service can significantly amplify a property’s visibility. Almost all homebuyers turn to the internet during their home search, and these online platforms primarily source their listings from the local MLS.
Additionally, buyer agents frequently use MLS data to find suitable homes for their clients, making it an invaluable marketing tool for sellers aiming to reach a broad audience efficiently.
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Alternatives to flat fee MLS services in Minnesota:
If a flat fee MLS service doesn’t seem like the right fit for your sale in Minnesota, consider these alternatives:
- Flat fee real estate agent: A flat fee real estate broker offers to list and sell your home for a fixed rate, usually between $3,000 to $5,000, potentially with additional costs for extra services. This is ideal for sellers seeking a mix of professional guidance and control over their sale.
- Discount real estate broker: A discount real estate broker charges a reduced commission while providing basic services like a full-commission agent. Explore the pros and cons of low commission brokers to determine if this option suits your needs.
- Full-service, experienced local real estate agent: A full-service Realtor offers comprehensive services, including market insights, local connections, and proven sales strategies. This option is best for sellers prioritizing a quick, efficient sale with potentially higher returns.
Will I save money with a flat fee MLS listing service?
Using a flat fee MLS listing service in Minnesota will indeed save you on commission fees. However, it’s crucial to consider the potential impact on your home’s final sale price. According to the NAR, FSBO homes tend to sell for less than those sold with the assistance of an agent. For instance, the median sale price for FSBO homes was just above $380,000, compared to just over $435,000 for homes sold by agents.
Thus, while a flat fee MLS service offers significant savings upfront, it’s important to weigh these immediate benefits against the possibility of a lower overall profit from your home sale.
What if I need to sell my Minnesota home fast
If you’re under pressure to sell your Minnesota home swiftly, exploring options beyond the traditional market could be advantageous. Companies like “We Buy Houses” and iBuyers are designed to purchase your home quickly, often within a matter of days, regardless of its condition.
While these routes might result in a lower sale price than the open market, they offer a rapid solution for those where time is critical.
For an even more streamlined process, HomeLight’s Simple Sale platform could be the answer, providing a quick sale or connecting you with a local agent for additional selling strategies. This option is ideal for sellers in Minnesota looking for speed and convenience in their home sale journey.
What else should I know about selling a house in Minnesota?
Selling a house in Minnesota requires compliance with state-specific disclosure laws, an important consideration for those using flat fee MLS services. While these services offer cost savings and control over the sale process, navigating the legal aspects of real estate transactions, particularly disclosures and contracts, can be complex.
Hiring a real estate attorney is not mandatory but highly recommended for FSBO sellers to ensure all legal bases are covered, reducing the risk of post-sale disputes.
Important considerations:
- Payment for flat fee services is due upfront, unlike the contingency-based fees of traditional real estate agents.
- Some flat fee services may change their names often, making it difficult to track their reliability and success rate.
- Listings typically include the seller’s direct contact information, placing the responsibility for managing inquiries and communications on the seller.
- Flat fee services usually do not offer personalized assistance throughout the listing process, a key difference from working with a traditional agent.
- Although flat fee rates are fixed, traditional real estate agent commissions can often be negotiated.
Ready to sell your Minnesota home?
Selling a house in Minnesota can feel like embarking on a full-time job, with each approach offering its own set of challenges and rewards.
When you work with a traditional real estate agent, you’ll have an experienced partner to handle the tricky parts of the market and help get the best deal. On the other hand, going the FSBO route means you take on a lot of the work agents usually handle, marketing, negotiating, and more, which can be overwhelming if you’re busy or new to real estate.
Using a flat fee MLS service can take some of that pressure off by giving you access to key tools and listing exposure, though the level of support depends on the package you choose.
That said, saving on agent commissions isn’t the full picture, because you’ll likely need to cover the buyer’s agent commission and any service fees. Plus, without a traditional agent’s guidance, you might end up selling for less than you could have.
If you want some guidance, HomeLight is a handy resource that can connect you to top Minnesota agents who can tailor their approach to your situation.
Editor’s note: This post is for educational purposes only. Links to and mentions of Minnesota 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.
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