4 Flat Fee MLS Companies in North Dakota
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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 North Dakota home as a For Sale By Owner (FSBO) often comes with visibility challenges. The multiple listing service (MLS) is the primary tool that agents and buyers use to find homes. Since homeowners usually cannot access the MLS directly, listings may struggle to gain traction. A flat fee MLS North Dakota service provides an affordable way to get your home listed while avoiding high commission costs.
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However, a flat fee MLS listing isn’t the right choice for every seller. In this article, we’ll cover the pros and cons of using one, the costs, and the companies offering flat fee MLS listings in North Dakota. By the end, you’ll have a better idea of whether this approach makes sense for your home sale.
What is a flat fee MLS listing service in North Dakota?
A flat fee MLS listing service is designed for FSBO sellers who want to get their home on the multiple listing service (MLS) without hiring a traditional real estate agent. The MLS is a database used by real estate professionals to share property listings, and it’s the primary source of home listings for major real estate websites.
Only licensed professionals can list homes on the MLS, but flat fee MLS companies offer a way for FSBO sellers to gain access. In exchange for an upfront fee, these services post the seller’s home on the MLS, making it visible to buyer’s agents and potential buyers browsing online real estate platforms. While this increases exposure, sellers remain responsible for pricing, marketing, and managing the sale.
How much does a flat fee MLS service cost in North Dakota?
The cost of a flat fee MLS listing in North Dakota varies by company and service package. Some companies offer basic listings for as little as $100, while more comprehensive plans can cost thousands of dollars.
Higher-priced plans often include additional services such as professional photography, marketing assistance, or a comparative market analysis to help set a competitive price.
When choosing a service, compare what each package includes to ensure you’re getting the right level of support within your budget. In the next section, we’ll highlight some flat fee MLS companies available to North Dakota home sellers.
Flat fee MLS listing companies in North Dakota
HomeZu
HomeZu is a nationwide real estate company offering exceptional value to sellers through affordable flat fee MLS listing services. With over 45 years of combined industry experience and more than 30,000 properties listed, the team brings in-depth expertise to the FSBO market.
The company strives to help homeowners save on commission while gaining full access to the same MLS tools used by traditional agents. Through a streamlined process and expert support, HomeZu enables sellers to take control of their home sale and maximize their returns.
Service areas: Nationwide, including North Dakota
Flat fee: $399 for a six-month listing term, up to 25 listing photos, purchase forms and disclosures, flyer handout, and buyer lead forwarding
Add-ons:
- Custom domain name: $50
- Lockbox: $50
- 12-month listing: $100
- Maximum photos allowed: $100
- Secondary MLS listing: $150
HomeZu earned a high average review score of 4.9 out of 5 stars on Google, as many clients share their smooth, straightforward selling experience with the company. They appreciate the guidance provided throughout the selling process and feel well-supported from start to finish. Several reviewers recognize the team’s professionalism and responsiveness.
Website: homezu.com
Phone: 844-663-2468
Flat Fee Susie
Flat Fee Susie has been serving the FSBO community for nearly two decades, offering expert flat fee MLS listing services across multiple states, including Nevada. The company’s founder serves as the broker in most states, supported by experienced local listing agents who deliver top-tier service and ensure sellers get more value than they pay for.
By listing properties on the MLS, clients gain professional exposure while avoiding the typical agent commission costs, which can amount to tens of thousands of dollars on a standard home sale.
Service areas: Nationwide, including North Dakota
- Package 1: $99 for a six-month listing term, up to six listing photos, lead forwarding, forms and disclosures, and unlimited listing changes
- Package 2: $199 for Package 1 inclusions, up to 50 photos, Realtor showing scheduling service, and open house postings
- Full Service: $1,200 for a 12-month listing term, full seller agent representation, yard sign, lockbox, and negotiations
Flat Fee Susie earned a high average review score of 4.9 out of 5 stars on Google. Clients say the company provides outstanding support throughout the home selling process.
Many appreciate that the company empowers sellers to handle their own listings and showings while offering expert guidance when needed. Reviewers note the team’s professionalism, timely communication, and helpful advice, all delivered without pressure.
Website: flatfeesusie.com
Phone number: 615-364-0948
ISoldMyHouse.com
ISoldMyHouse.com has been a trailblazer in the online real estate sector since its inception in 1997. It offers homeowners an innovative way to sell their homes while maximizing their financial return. Serving as an alternative to the traditional high-commission model, ISoldMyHouse.com empowers sellers with flexible, affordable flat fee MLS listing options that put control back in their hands.
Service areas: Nationwide, including North Dakota
- Get Listed: $299 for a six-month listing term, up to six photos, lead forwarding, open house scheduling, and online customer support
- Get Sold: $399 for Get Listed inclusions and up to 25 listing photos
Accredited with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) since 2018, ISoldMyHouse.com holds an A+ rating. On Google, the company received a 4.5-star average, as many praise the team for connecting them with serious buyers.
Some even recognize being able to speed up deals, while others highlight the platform’s ease of use and clear instructions. Overall, several sellers recommend the company’s services to those looking for smooth home sale transactions.
Website: isoldmyhouse.com
Phone number: 855-283-0001
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 North Dakota
- Package 1: $95 for Byowner and BuyOwner listing, state forms and contracts, and up to 50 listing photos
- Package 2: $195 for Package 1 inclusions, a six-month listing term on the MLS, open houses, and online showing service
ByOwner.com has earned an A+ grade from the BBB and a 4.2-star rating on Google, reflecting its commitment to ethical, reliable 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
How would a North Dakota seller benefit from a flat fee MLS service?
A flat fee MLS service can be a cost-effective way to list your home while maintaining control over the selling process. Instead of paying the listing agent’s commission, which typically ranges from 2% to 3% of the sale price, you pay a one-time fee to get your home on the MLS.
This option works best for sellers who have desirable homes in competitive markets, have prior home-selling experience, or prefer a hands-on approach. However, you’ll need to take on key responsibilities typically handled by an agent, including pricing, marketing, and negotiations.
These are the key benefits of using a flat fee MLS service:
- Save money by eliminating the listing agent’s commission.
- Get your home listed on the MLS, expanding exposure to buyers.
- Maintain full control over your home sale, including pricing and negotiations.
- Avoid working with a licensed agent if you prefer to sell independently.
- Choose from different service packages based on your needs and budget.
Pros and cons of using a flat fee MLS listing service
Pros:
- No listing agent commission: By going FSBO, you’ll save money and skip the listing agent’s commission, typically 2.5% to 3% of the sale price.
- Increased exposure: Your home gets listed on the MLS and third-party real estate websites.
- More control: You manage the sale, including pricing, negotiations, and showings.
- Transparent pricing: Flat fee services require an upfront payment, so costs are clear.
- Access to buyers: The MLS helps attract serious buyers and their agents.
Cons:
- Reduced commission savings: Some buyers expect sellers to cover their agent’s fees.
- Limited support: You won’t have an agent guiding you through the process.
- Legal and marketing risks: Mistakes in pricing, contracts, or disclosures can lead to delays or liability.
- Time-intensive work: Managing the sale, showings, and negotiations requires significant effort.
- Lower sale price: FSBO homes often sell for less than those listed with an experienced agent.
How do I list my home with a flat fee MLS service?
Once you decide to use a flat fee MLS service, follow these steps to get your home listed on the MLS:
Step 1: Research and choose a flat fee MLS service
Compare different companies, their pricing, and service offerings. Read online reviews and check the BBB for ratings and complaints.
Step 2: Register and select a package
Sign up on the company’s website, choose a listing plan, and pay the required upfront fee.
Step 3: Provide property details and photos
Enter your home’s description, upload high-quality images, and complete any required forms, such as disclosures.
Step 4: Read the fine print
Review and sign the listing agreement, making sure you understand the terms, cancellation policies, and any hidden fees.
Step 5: Review and publish your listing
Once your listing goes live on the MLS, verify that all details are accurate. Your home should also appear on third-party sites like Zillow and Realtor.com within a few days.
Are flat fee MLS listings effective in North Dakota?
Yes, flat fee MLS listings can be an effective way to market your home in North Dakota. Most homebuyers rely on online tools to search for properties, and the MLS is the primary source for up-to-date listings. Additionally, buyers’ agents use the MLS to find homes that fit their clients’ needs, making it one of the most powerful tools for home sellers.
However, while a flat fee MLS service can increase your home’s visibility, the effectiveness of your sale will also depend on market conditions, pricing strategy, and your ability to handle negotiations and closing details.
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Alternatives to flat fee MLS services in North Dakota
If a flat fee MLS service isn’t the right fit for your home sale, there are other options to consider:
- Flat fee real estate agent: Some real estate professionals charge a fixed rate instead of a percentage of the sale price. They typically provide limited services, such as listing on the MLS and handling paperwork, while leaving marketing and negotiations to the seller. Flat fee agent rates often range from $3,000 to $5,000, though costs may vary.
- Discount real estate brokers: A discount real estate broker offers a reduced commission rate instead of a flat fee. These brokers provide some of the same services as a full-service agent but at a lower cost. Learn more about the pros and cons of low-commission agents.
- Full-service real estate agent: Working with a local real estate agent may be your best option if you want expert guidance and a smoother selling process. They can help price your home correctly, market it effectively, negotiate offers, and handle the complex paperwork, all of which can lead to a faster and more profitable sale.
Will I save money with a flat fee MLS listing service?
A flat fee MLS listing can help you save on commission costs, but it may not always result in the highest net profit. While you avoid paying a full listing agent’s commission, you’ll still need to offer a buyer’s agent commission and cover other selling costs.
Research from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that FSBO homes typically sell for significantly less than agent-assisted sales. The median sale price for FSBO homes was $360,000, compared to $425,000 for homes sold with an agent. Additionally, many FSBO sellers end up selling to a friend or neighbor, which often results in a lower sale price than selling on the open market.
While a flat fee MLS service can help you save on listing fees, it’s important to consider whether the potential savings outweigh the risks of selling without professional guidance.
What if I need to sell my North Dakota home fast?
If time is a top priority, you have options beyond a traditional home sale. You could work with a We Buy Houses company or an iBuyer, both of which can purchase your home 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 buyers offering competitive cash offers or an experienced agent who can help facilitate a quick sale. If selling fast is your priority, weighing speed against potential profits is essential before choosing the best approach.
What else should I know about selling a house in North Dakota?
Although North Dakota operates under caveat emptor (buyer beware), where buyers must investigate potential issues themselves, sellers are encouraged to be transparent about their property’s condition. Being upfront helps build trust, boost buyer confidence, and make the sale smoother.
Hiring a real estate attorney can help you navigate the legal aspects of the sale, protect your interests, and avoid costly issues. Here are other things you should know when selling FSBO:
- Flat fee MLS services require upfront payment, regardless of whether your home sells.
- Some services frequently rebrand or change names, making it harder to assess their reputation.
- Your contact information is often included in the listing, which means you’ll handle buyer inquiries directly.
- Unlike working with a local real estate agent, flat fee MLS services typically don’t provide personalized guidance.
- While flat fee MLS companies charge a fixed rate, traditional real estate agent commissions are often negotiable.
Ready to sell your North Dakota home?
Selling a home FSBO with a flat fee MLS service can save you money on listing agent commissions, but it requires time, effort, and real estate knowledge. Before deciding, consider the pros and cons carefully.
Key takeaways:
- A flat fee MLS listing service allows FSBO sellers to list their home on the MLS without hiring a full-service agent.
- Costs vary, with basic plans starting around $100 and more comprehensive services costing thousands.
- While you avoid a listing agent’s commission, you may still need to offer a buyer’s agent commission to sweeten the deal.
- FSBO homes often sell for less than agent-listed homes, potentially reducing your net profit.
If you prefer personalized guidance and expert support, HomeLight can connect you with a top-performing local real estate agent to help you sell efficiently and for the best price.
Editor’s note: This post is for educational purposes only. Links to and mentions of North Dakota 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: (rruntsch/ Deposit Photos)
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