From Beacon Hill to Waterfront, Flat Fee MLS services have helped Bostonians save thousands in 2024. Flat Fee MLS Boston services will list your house on the MLS for a fraction of what you’d pay a 6% Realtor.
There’s more good news. You save the 3% listing agent commission with a Flat Fee MLS listing in Boston. You will also save on the 2.5% to 3% buyer agent commission with the NAR Settlement. That’s a potential saving of $48,000 on an average $800,000 home in the Beantown!
Rankings: 8 Flat Fee MLS Boston Companies in 2024
Flat Fee MLS Service | Price | 100% Online | Offer Management | Negotiation Support | 5-star Reviews | Mobile App |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1. Houzeo | $399 | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
2. Entry Only | Varies | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
3. Landfall Properties LLC | $699 | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
4. Entry Only New England | $397 | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
5. Simply Sell Realty | $99 | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
6. Flat Fee Group | $449 | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
7. I Sold My House | $399 | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
8. FSBO.com | $399 | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Reviews: 8 Best Flat Fee MLS Boston Listing Services
1. Houzeo
#1 Flat Fee MLS Service
Houzeo.comHouzeo is a high-tech platform with easy listing, fast changes, and online showings and offers.
You can choose from 4 Flat Fee MLS packages:
- Bronze Package – $399+$350 at Close: This package offers a Houzeo listing only for 6 months with 24 photos.
- Silver Package – $399+0.5% at Close: This offers maximum photo upload and provides you with seller disclosures.
- Gold Package—$429+0.5 % at Close: This is Houzeo’s signature MLS package and includes all the technology Houzeo is known for, such as Houzeo Showings, Houzeo Offers, and DigiTransact.
- Platinum Package – $449+1% at Close: It includes the assistance of a licensed broker to help you with negotiations, seller disclosures, and closing.
👉 Our Take: We recommend the GOLD plan. You’ll have access to Houzeo tech, making managing showings and offer negotiations easy! Before you list, confirm all prices on your particular state’s pricing page.
» Houzeo Reviews: Find out why 10,000+ Americans love Houzeo.
Houzeo is America’s #1 Flat Fee MLS service because of 5 reasons:
- Max Exposure: Houzeo’s listing packages get your home on Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, Redfin, and 100s of other real estate websites.
- 5-star Customer Service: Houzeo has a fully staffed customer service desk available 6 days a week. Chats and emails are open 7 days a week.
- 100% Online: Houzeo is a high-tech platform with easy listing, fast changes, online showings, and online offers. Its powerful house search app makes your home visible to potential buyers on the go.
- No Hidden Fees: All fees are disclosed upfront, so there are no Houzeo hidden fees. You get to bypass the traditional listing agent commission.
- Free Home Value Estimator: Now, you can get a free home value estimate within 30 seconds. It helps you set a listing price.
There are no dealbreakers with Houzeo.
» Is Houzeo Legit? Houzeo addresses all Houzeo complaints from home sellers.
Houzeo is rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by thousands of home sellers on Google & Trustpilot.
» Houzeo Reviews: Houzeo is rated “Excellent“ by 10,020+ home sellers.
Houzeo.com is Massachusetts’ #1 ranked Flat Fee MLS service. Houzeo provides an unbeatable combination of max savings, 5-star customer support, and cutting-edge technology.
In Massachusetts, the Bronze package costs $399. The Silver package costs $409 +0.5% at close and the Gold package costs $429 +0.5% at close. The Platinum package costs $449 +1% at close.
» Flat Fee MLS Massachusetts: Check our rankings of the best Flat Fee MLS companies in Massachusetts.
2. Entry Only
MULTI-STATE COVERAGE
Entry OnlyEntry Only offers flat fee MLS services across the US. They offer 1 – 3 packages depending on the state:
- Basic – $399: This package offers a listing term of 6 months with 20 photos on the MLS. You get transaction coordination, flyers, buyer lead forwarding, and a yard sign.
- Enhanced – $699: You get all the services of the Basic package, along with broker assistance and contract review.
- Premium – $999: This package includes all the services of the Enhanced package. You also get negotiations and closing assistance.
👉 Our Take: Entry Only offers flat-fee MLS listing packages that vary by state. They also charge 0.1% to 0.5% at closing. Additionally, their add-ons and cancellation fees are higher compared to other flat-fee providers.
Here are some key benefits of listing with Entry Only:
- Market Exposure: Your property listing is shared across real estate websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, Trulia, and other local websites.
- Buyer Lead Forwarding: All email inquiries will be forwarded to you. In addition, Entry Only has a 24/7 receptionist service to redirect buyers and agents to you.
- Closing Assistance: Entry Only manages the closing process by coordinating with buyer agents, lenders, appraisers, inspectors, attorneys, and title companies.
- Nationwide Coverage: Entry Only offers services throughout the US and connects you with your local MLS.
Here are some drawbacks of working with Entry Only:
- Transaction Fee at Closing: Despite low upfront costs, the 0.1% transaction fee at closing means you will incur additional charges based on the final sale price.
- Add-On Costs: Optional add-ons, such as extra photos, extended listing time, or PVC yard sign posts which costs $100 each can also increase the final price.
- Cancellation Fee: If a cancellation is made before the property is listed on the MLS, a $50 cancellation fee is charged.
- Lacks Uniform Pricing: Prices and services are not standardized and vary as per state. so you may encounter unexpected fees.
Entry Only has 4.8 out of 5 stars from 345 total reviews on Trustpilot.
Entry Only is a part of the HomeZu network. With more than 20 years of experience, Jason Saphire, the managing broker, has cultivated an excellent reputation in the industry.
Entry Only offers a “Double Money Back Guarantee” if you are unable to sell your house with them. In addition to this, they have a 24/7 receptionist service that forwards all buyer leads to you.
However, their add-on services are not as competitively priced as their packages. Past sellers appreciate their low turnaround time and prompt service.
3. Landfall Properties, LLC
COMPREHENSIVE ASSISTANCE
Landfall PropertiesLandfall Properties typically has 3 Flat Fee MLS packages:
- Level One package – Free: This package offers free listing on the MLS for 2 months with 40 photos. You can make unlimited updates in your listing. However, you have to pay a broker commission of 2% – 2.5%.
- Level Two package – $699: You get an unlimited listing term and a professional high-quality ‘For Sale Yard Sign‘. It provides contract forms and addendums, escrow services, virtual tours.
- Level Three package – 1%: This package includes everything from the Level Two Package along with broker assistance. Other benefits include buyer rebates, accurate pricing figures, and a bluetooth lockbox.
👉 Our Take: We recommend the Level Three Package, which gives unlimited broker assistance until closing.
Here are some highlights about Landfall Properties:
- Free Listing: You get a free listing on the MLS for up to 2 months.
- Market Exposure: Your listing is shared across hundreds of national and local websites.
- Easy Upgrades: You can easily upgrade to the Level 3 package anytime.
- No Limit Broker Consultation: All three packages include broker consultation via email/text message.
Landfall Properties has a good rating, but we came across some drawbacks you need to know.
- Agent Commission: The FREE package actually comes at a cost. It includes a broker commission of 2% – 2.5% depending upon the use of buyer services.
- Low on Tech: They do not have a mobile app, which can make the listing process easy.
Landfall Properties has a 5-star rating from 40+ reviews on Zillow.
» Landfall Properties Reviews: See what past sellers have written about Landfall Properties on Zillow.
Having an experienced broker like Paul Marino can help you stand apart in the Boston Listing service game.
Although the packages offered by Landfall Properties are very flexible, they fall short on technology as they do not have a mobile application.
4. Entry Only New England
NO A-LA-CARTE SERVICES
Entry Only New EnglandEntry Only New England offers three Flat Fee MLS packages.
- Basic – $397: It includes a 12-month MLS listing, 10 photos, unlimited listing changes, and assistance with MA state real estate forms.
- Standard – $547: All services from the Basic package + 30 photos, FSBO pricing guide, buyer agent commission report, professional marketing flyers, and listing optimization guide.
- Advanced – $697: All services from the Standard package + 42 photos, seller report from Realtor.com, and educational material on FSBO.
👉 Our Take: We recommend the Standard Package as it allows more number of photos on the MLS. However, the services are limited compared to other Flat Fee MLS companies at the same price.
Here are some key benefits of listing with Entry Only New England:
- Buyer Lead Forwarding: Your MLS listing is published with your contact details and instructions to contact you directly. Entry Only New England does not get involved with leads.
- State Forms: All Entry Only New England packages offer assistance with Massachusetts state real estate forms. This includes the sales contract, the deed, disclosure forms, etc.
- Comparable Sales Report: They offer an FSBO pricing guide or a comparative market analysis report. It is designed to help you find the right price for your home according to similar properties that were sold in your area.
In our research, we found some limitations of Entry Only New England, that could make your experience less satisfactory.
- No á la Carte Services: Entry Only New England does not offer any add-on services. So, you may have to purchase an expensive package even if you only want to opt for one of the additional services it offers. You’ll pay for all services in the package, even if you don’t need them.
- Limited Exposure: The firm lists the property only on one MLS, i.e., MLS PIN (Property Information Network). This can limit property exposure. Consequently, you may miss out on potential deals.
- Limited Coverage: Their service is available only in Massachusetts.
Entry Only New England has 5 out of 5 stars with 90+ reviews on Google.
Entry Only New England is a part of the Stuart St. James family, helmed by Darin Thompson.
With more than 15 years of experience in the field, Thompson brings value and professionalism to the table. Entry Only New England reviews are a testament to this.
While their cheapest plan offers a 12-month MLS listing for $349, it only allows 10 photos on the MLS. But they do not have any á la carte services. Consequently, you may feel compelled to opt for the Standard or Advanced Plan for better services.
5. Simply Sell Realty
Cheap Single Package
Simple Sell RealtySimply Sell Realty offers only 1 Flat Fee MLS package.
Simply List Me – $99: This package offers 6 months listing with maximum photos allowed by the MLS. Your listing gets syndicated to multiple national and local real estate websites. The flat fee MLS package offers services equivalent to a full service package.
👉 Our Take: Simply Sell Realty offers a single Flat fee MLS package with various services. However, a single package ideally comes with limited options.
- Market Exposure: Your listing gets syndicated to Zillow, Trulia, REaltor.com, Homes.com and other local webites.
- Unlimited Changes: You can make multiple online change requests to your MLS listing 24/7.
- Buyer Lead Forwarding: Simply Sell Realty promptly forwards all the buyer leads to you.
- Online Process: All the listing and data maintenance process is completely online. Your listing goes live within 24 hours after you submit your details.
- Free Cancellation: You can terminate your listing anytime without paying any extra charges.
- Listing Withdrawal: You can temporarily take down your listing and re-list once during the 6 months listing term.
- Limited Coverage: Simply Sell Realty is licensed to offer flat fee MLS services only in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Berkshire and Barnstable county in Massachusetts are not covered.
- Lacks on Tech: Though all the processes are carried out online, it lacks an e-seller dashboard and a mobile app.
Simply Sell Realty has a rating of 5.0 stars from 30 reviews on Trustindex.
Simply Sell Realty LLC provides cheap flat-fee MLS services in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Though it offers multiple services in its only package, you can be left with limited choices.
The listing process is online, but it lacks a mobile app to provide you with easy access to your listing. Also, make sure you read the listing agreement carefully for any hidden charges!
6. Flat Fee Group
CUSTOMIZABLE PACKAGES
Flat Fee Group- Listing Fee: Starting at $195 (Varies as per the State)
- No Hidden Fees
- No credible reviews were found
Flat Fee Group is a network of independent brokers providing Flat Fee MLS listings across the US. They offer 3 – 4 packages depending on the state:
- Basic Package – $195 – $399: Prices for MLS listing services vary by state and broker.
- Add-Ons – $400 – $1,000: This covers upgrades like yard signs, lock boxes, and negotiation assistance. Some brokers may charge non-refundable upfront fees.
👉 Our Take: When you choose Flat Fee Group, you’ll work with an independent flat-fee brokerage. Service quality can vary depending on the broker you’re matched with.
Flat Fee Group offers certain advantages:
- Multiple Packages: The packages differ in services offered. You can select the package that suits your real estate needs.
- Maximum Market Exposure: Your property gets listed on many popular websites like Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, etc. This market exposure will help you sell your house faster.
- Access to Legal Documents: Flat Fee Group provides you with state-wise contracts, forms, and disclosures. This would save you time to collate the documents from different sources.
Flat Fee Group has several drawbacks:
- No Uniform Pricing: Prices and services are not standardized and vary as per state. so you may encounter unexpected fees.
- Inconsistent Service Quality: With brokers operating independently, the level of service can vary widely.
- No Credible Reviews: They do not have reviews on websites like Zillow, Trustpilot, Yelp, and Google.
Flat Fee Group has no customer reviews on Google or Trustpilot.
» Is Flat Fee Group legit? Read our in-depth reviews on Flat Fee Group and choose accordingly.
Since its founding in 2003, the Flat Fee Group has grown to serve clients throughout the United States by connecting independent, flat-fee real estate brokerages with sellers.
In Massachusetts, Flat Fee Group’s Basic Package costs $299, the Enhanced Package costs $699, and the Premium Package costs $999.
Flat Fee Group.com’s pricing and multiple packages may seem attractive in listing a property for a Flat Fee. However, it works with various flat-fee brokerages, and not every homeowner will have the same experience.
7. I Sold My House
Low Tech, But Great Broker
ISoldMyHouse.comI Sold My House offers 2 flat fee packages:
- Get Listed – $299: This package offers MLS listing with 6-10 photos. Your listing is syndicated to major sites like Zillow and Trulia. It is best suited for rental properties and small 1-2 bedroom homes.
- Get Sold – $399: This package includes all the features of the Get Listed plan, plus you can upload up to 25 photos. It is best suited for larger homes.
👉 Our Take: ISoldMyHouse.com offers affordable MLS listings, but its services are relatively basic, even in premium packages. Unlike many other flat fee brokers, they do not offer agent support or guidance throughout the selling process.
I Sold My House offers the following advantages:
- Fast Listing: Your home is listed on the MLS within 24 hours from the time you submit your details.
- Market Exposure: Your MLS listing gets syndicated to websites like Zillow, Trulia, Redfin, and Realtor.com.
- Buyer Leads Forwarded: All buyer leads are directly forwarded to you with no agent involvement.
Here are some deal breakers associated with I Sold My House:
- Limited Coverage: ISoldMyHouse.com is licensed to provide direct services in 8 states. In the rest of the region, it works as a referral service.
- Limited Features: They don’t offer any additional services like professional photography, yard signs, or comparative market analysis.
- Self-Managed Process: The entire selling process is DIY, meaning sellers have to manage pricing, marketing, and the closing process.
I Sold My House has a rating of 4.73 out of 5 from 10+ reviews on Better Business Bureau.
» I Sold My House Reviews: Do consider reading these reviews before choosing I Sold My House.
iSoldMyHouse is a great choice in the 8 states it covers. Kris Lippi, the Broker Owner of iSoldMyHouse is an experienced Flat Fee broker with thousands of transactions under his belt.
In the remaining 42 states and Washington D.C., iSoldMyHouse.com is only a referral service. They act as a middleman and will sell your information to a local broker who will help you list on MLS.
8. FSBO.com
NATIONAL REFERRAL COMPANY
FSBO.com- FSBO Package – $99.95
- MLS Package – $399.95
- Multiple Categories of Listings
- User-Friendly Interface
- Nationwide Coverage
- Limited Automation
- Unpredictable Broker Quality
- Extra Charges for Listing Photos
- Expensive à la carte Services
FSBO.com has no credible customer reviews on popular review sites like Google or Trustpilot.
» FSBO.com Reviews: Read why the oldest FSBO website isn’t the best anymore.
FSBO.com is available in all states with coverage in 50+ markets. FSBO allows sellers to list their property for sale while saving on the listing agent commission. But you should know that additional services can add up to a total of $335 in costs!
For example, If you wish to avail of CSS showing service, and e-lockbox rental, then you have to pay $75 and $150 over your Flat Fee package.
How Do Flat Fee Listing Services in Boston Work?
Boston Flat Fee Multiple Listing Services get your home on the MLS for a fixed fee. However, only licensed agents can access the MLS. So, the top flat fee services in work with these agents to list and market your home.
All you have to do is choose a plan that best suits your home-selling needs. And voila! You save thousands.
Once the MLS listing is live, buyer agents can view your property on the MLS and subsequently recommend it to prospective buyers.
How Much Can You Save With a Flat Fee MLS Listing?
It depends on who you work with. A traditional full-service agent charges a 2.5% to 3% commission. On the other hand, a Boston flat rate MLS listing service like Houzeo costs $399, with a closing fee of just $350.
Imagine a $800,000 home in the Beantown; you would pay $24,000 to the listing agent. However, listing with Houzeo would save you $23,251.
Service Provider | Fee | Commission Due | Savings |
Traditional Agent | 3% | $24,000 | $0 |
Houzeo | $399 | $749* | $23,251 |
NAR Settlement Saves Sellers Thousands in Commission
The NAR Settlement went into effect on August 17, 2024. Buyer agent commissions can no longer be offered on the MLS. This means sellers will save thousands! But it also means there’s a lot more compliance and litigation risks.
Here’s what this means for you:
- Sellers Can Save Thousands in Commissions: You will likely pay much less than the traditional 3% buyer agent commission. That’s because buyer agent commissions will be negotiated twice: Once when buyers engage buyer agents, and again when sellers review offer contracts.
- Seller Priority #1 Will Be Paperwork (to Mitigate Compliance & Litigation Risks): Buyer agents mitigate all types of risks. From seller disclosures, offer contracts, contingencies, inspections, repair requests, appraisal, and closing – Buyer agents keep the paperwork tight. Their state licensing authorities, Realtor associations, and MLS’ audit paperwork compliance. Without buyer agents, sellers will have to learn and adapt. Or risk expensive litigation.
- Negotiations Can Now Feel Like Haggling: Buyer agent commissions will now be part of offer contracts and buyer agency agreements. Buyers may ask sellers to include commissions in the form of seller concessions. That means home buyers and sellers alike will be negotiating commissions. Sellers will need expert licensed brokers to help them with these negotiations.
- Buyer Agent Commissions Can Be Offered Offline: Buyer agent fees can still be offered outside of the MLS. They just cannot be advertised on the MLS.
How to Choose the Best Flat Fee Listing Service in Boston, MA?
Here’s what you must consider when choosing Flat Fee MLS companies:
- Affordable Pricing: Select a Flat Fee MLS listing company that offers plans ranging from $300 to $800. Low listing costs may help you free up funds for other expenses like home staging or repairs.
- Maximum Exposure: Ensure that the Flat Fee MLS service provider gets your home on all the MLSs in your area. This will increase your home’s visibility.
- Maximum Photos: The MLS company must allow you to upload at least 22 pictures of your house. Professional photos taken from different angles help potential buyers visualize the property.
- Extended Listing Term: Choose a Flat Fee MLS Massachusetts listing service that keeps your listing live for at least 6 months. This way, you can wait for a better offer instead of feeling rushed to accept a less desirable one.
- Quick Listing: Select a local Flat Fee MLS Boston listing service that gets your home on the MLS quickly. The faster your home is on the market, the less likely you will miss out on potential offers.
How to List on Boston MLS via Houzeo
Follow these steps correctly to get an active MLS listing with Houzeo in 48 hours:
- Create Your Account: Download the Houzeo mobile app or go to Houzeo.com and click “Start Listing Now.” You’ll then have to provide basic information, like your name, contact details, etc., to set up your account.
- Enter Property Details: Go to the Houzeo dashboard and click “Sell a Property.” Submit details about your home, such as the number of rooms and baths, square footage, etc.
- Set Your Asking Price: Use online tools to check the value of your home and set the asking price accordingly.
- Choose Your MLS Plan: Houzeo offers 4 flat fee packages. Once you select a plan, the necessary documents will be automatically assigned to you. Completing the listing agreement will take just 20 to 30 minutes if done correctly.
- Add Property Description and Photos: Highlight your property’s key features to attract potential buyers. Upload high-quality photos showcasing major rooms and amenities such as a home gym or installed solar panels.
» Houzeo Reviews: Find out why Houzeo is one of Boston’s best Flat Fee MLS listing services.
Alternatives to Boston Flat Fee Listing Services
Boston flat rate listing services are the best option for home sellers looking to retain most of their home equity.
However, if you don’t want to save your hard-earned equity, here are a few options for you:
- Discount Real Estate Brokers: They are licensed real estate professionals who offer the same services as traditional agents but for a lower fee. Discount real estate brokers in Massachusetts charge between 0.5% to 2% commission.
- Full-Service Realtors: They are real estate agents or brokerages that offer comprehensive services, including marketing, negotiation, paperwork, closing assistance, etc. However, they charge a 5% to 6% commission for their services.
- iBuyers/Cash Home Buyers: iBuyers, such as Opendoor and Offerpad, purchase homes directly from sellers. They have strict home-buying criteria. Cash buyers in Boston make offers for distressed houses within 24 to 48 hours.
- For Sale By Owner Websites: For Sale By Owner websites in MA allow homeowners to list and sell their properties without the assistance of a real estate agent. However, your home won’t get the MLS exposure it deserves.
Final Word
You don’t need a full-service agent to sell your home in the Beantown.
With a flat fee listing on Houzeo, you can take control of your sale and save thousands. Get the same MLS exposure and expert tools at just $749 instead of a whopping 3% agent fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best Flat Fee MLS listing service in Boston, MA?
Houzeo is one of the top flat fee services in Boston because of its advanced tech and stellar customer reviews. Entry Only and Landfall Properties LLC are other great options.
Can I list on the MLS without a real estate agent?
Yes, you can list your home on the MLS in Boston without a real estate agent. Opt for a Flat Fee MLS listing service and eliminate the 3% listing agent's commission.
Is Flat Fee MLS legal in Boston, MA?
Flat Fee MLS is legal all over the United States, including Massachusetts.
Is a seller’s disclosure required in Massachusetts?
Yes, you need to fill out the Massachusetts seller disclosure form when selling your home in Boston. It helps you disclose all the material defects and the overall condition of your property to potential buyers.
Why should I list my property on the Boston real estate Multiple Listing Service?
Listing your property on the MLS ensures maximum visibility to buyers and agents, giving your home more exposure. Using a Boston flat rate MLS listing service can help you avoid paying full commission to a real estate agent.