Flat Fee MLS San Jose, CA | 8 Companies With No Red Flags 🚩

10 mins read Oct 16, 2024
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Edited By

Carol Coutinho

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Editor
Edited By

Carol Coutinho

Editor, Houzeo
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Carol C. is a versatile editor, expertly refining real estate content with precision and creativity. When not exploring market trends, she is immersed in the enthralling world of the theatre.

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From Santa Teresa to Beryessa, Flat Fee MLS services have helped Californians save thousands in 2024. Flat Fee MLS San Jose 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 California. You will also save on the 2.5% to 3% buyer agent commission with the NAR settlement. That’s a potential saving of $82,755 on an average $1,379,250 home in The Capital of Silicon Valley!

Rankings: 8 Flat Fee MLS San Jose, CA Companies in 2024

Flat Fee MLS ServicePriceAdditional Fees100% OnlineOffer ManagementShowing Management5-star ReviewsMobile App
1. Houzeo$349None
2. Congress Realty$299- $499None
3. Brian Dombroski$299- $999None
4. MLS Town$99-$295$300
5. Beycome $99None
6. Flat Fee Group$449None
7. Homecoin$95High Hidden Fees
8. FSBO.com$399$75 - $150

Reviews: 8 Best Flat Fee MLS Listing Service Companies in San Jose, CA

1. Houzeo

Houzeo LogoLogo-Link

100% ONLINE PROCESS

Listing Fee: $399

4.9/5

10,000+ reviews
💲 Pricing

Houzeo is a high-tech platform that streamlines listings, updates, and online showings/offers. Choose from 4 Flat Fee MLS packages to simplify your home sale.

  • Bronze Package – $399 + $350 At Close: You can upload 24 photos, and your listing term will be of 6 months.
  • Silver Package – $409 + 0.5% At Close: You can post maximum number of photos and access seller disclosures.
  • Gold Package – $429 + 0.5% At Close: You can avail the assistance of a licensed broker to guide you through the listing process.
  • Platinum Package – $449 + 1% At Close: Your home is on the MLS for 12-months. Plus, you get virtual support of a licensed broker.

👉 Our Take: We recommend Houzeo’s Gold plan for expert broker support, including contract review and pricing guidance. Plus, enjoy concierge services that ensure a smooth and successful sale.

» Houzeo Reviews: Find out why 10,000+ Americans love Houzeo.

⚡ Highlights

Houzeo is America’s #1 Flat Fee MLS service because of these strong reasons:

  1. Max Exposure: Your home listing is syndicated to popular real estate websites like Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, giving it nationwide visibility.
  2. 100% Online: You can list your home, manage listings, get paperwork done and close the deal all through a single platform and a powerful mobile app.
  3. 5-star Customer Service: You have access to 24/7 listing support with chat and email services 6 days a week.
  4. No Hidden Fees: What you see is what you pay. Houzeo mentions all of its fees upfront on its website.
🚩 Deal Breakers

There are no dealbreakers with Houzeo.

» Is Houzeo Legit? Houzeo addresses home sellers concerns with efficiency.

⭐ Reviews

Houzeo is rated an impressive 4.9 out of 5 stars by thousands of home sellers on Google and Trustpilot.

» Houzeo Reviews: Rated Excellent by 10,000+ happy home sellers.

Houzeo.com is California’s #1 ranked Flat Fee MLS service. Houzeo provides an unbeatable combination of max savings, 5-star customer support, and cutting-edge technology.

In California, 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.

2. Congress Realty

Flat-Fee-MLS-California-Congress-Realty.Logo-Link

Experienced Broker

Listing Fee: $299

4.9/5

90+ reviews
💲 Pricing

Congress Realty offers 4 different packages:

  • Basic Package – $299: You get a listing term of 6 months and and can upload maximum 6 photos. Additionally, you get access to all state forms & disclosures.
  • Plus Package – $399: Your home is live on the MLS for 6 months and you can upload maximum number of photos. It allows you to make 10 listing changes for free.
  • Premium Package – $499: You get unlimited open house postings and your listing is featured on social media.
  • Full-Service Package – $399 + 0.5% Commission: You get a 24/7 dedicated support of experienced agent who would help you with negotiations, contract review, and closing. They charge 0.5% at closing.

👉 Our Take: We recommend the Full-Service Package offered by Congress Realty for its full-service features. However, you should also take into consideration the 0.5% they charge at closing.

⚡ Highlights

Congress Realty offers a smarter, cost-effective way to sell your home.

  • Commission Savings: It helps you keep more of your money with flat fees instead of high agent commissions.
  • Direct Contact with Buyers: You can talk to buyers directly and negotiate your deal on your terms.
  • Greater Exposure: Your home is syndicated to popular real estate websites like Zillow, Redfin, Trulia, ensuring maximum visibility.
  • Transparent Fee: You know what you’ll pay right at the start, no surprises later.
🚩 Deal Breakers

Congress Realty has a few drawbacks:

  • Limited Listing Duration: Your home is live on the MLS for just 6 months, which means you need to renew it if its not sold.
  • Lack of Vital Features: You do not get access to marketing tools and no professional photography.
  • Limited Coverage: It provides services in limited states of the US, hence its unsuitable if you plan to relocate in future.
⭐ Reviews

Congress Realty has an excellent rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 90+ reviews on Google.

» Congress Realty Reviews: Is the listing service worth it? Read our in-depth analysis.

Congress Realty is our #2 ranked Flat Fee MLS service in California. What sets Congress Realty apart is its Managing Broker – Jared Andrew English.

Jared Andrew English is an experienced Flat Fee MLS broker and has represented thousands of home sellers. Congress Realty covers all major MLS’ in California.

3. Brian Dombroski

Dombroski Real EstateLogo-Link

AFFORDABLE LISTING

Listing Fee: $299 - $699

5/5

30+ reviews
💲Pricing

Dombrowski Real Estate offers 3 attractive Flat Fee MLS California packages.

  • Basic Package – $299: You get a 6-month listing term and can upload up to 5 properties photos. However, you can raise a query only through e-mail.
  • Plus Package – $399: The package allows you to upload up to 20 photos and you get e-mail and phone support. You get both phone and email support and 3 open houses.
  • Premium – $699: You can upload maximum number of photos and list your home until it’s sold. Your home is visible on social media and you get a CMA report on request.

👉 Our Take: The Basic plan is great for home sellers. However, this package would be ideal for experienced sellers who do not need much hand-holding.

⚡ Highlights

It’s ideal for Californian home sellers for these reasons:

  • Experienced Brokers: Brian and his team offer expert knowledge in market trends, pricing, and negotiation. They provide full support from preparing your home for sale to handling negotiations.
  • Good Customer Service: Dombroski Real Estate offers prompt and reliable support, guiding you through every step of the sales process.
🚩 Deal Breakers

Brian Dromboski has an excellent reputation among brokers. However, these are some of the drawbacks.

  • Not for First-Time Sellers: You need to handle property marketing, click professional photos, and negotiate sale price, all on your own.
  • Limited Coverage: Brian Dromboski offers his services only in the state of California.
⭐ Reviews

Brian Dromboski has a 5 out of 5 star rating from 30+ total reviews on Houzeo.

Brian is a top-rated real estate agent in California with over 19 years of experience. You can opt for their Bronze or the Silver Plan and purchase any other additional services you may need a la carte. You can even choose full-service premium packages.

Yager’s team is well known for its responsiveness. Sellers have been able to close quickly with Yager Realty. Give them a call, and you won’t be disappointed!

5. MLS Town

Flat-Fee-MLS-California-MLS-TownLogo-Link

BUDGET-LISTING

Listing Fee: $95 - $295

5/5

💲Pricing

You can choose from MLS Town’s 4 Flat Fee MLS listing packages to sell your house.

  • Basic Package – $95: You can upload up to 8 photos and list your home for 3 months.
  • Annual Package – $295: You can upload up to 16 photos and schedule unlimited open houses.
  • Premium Package – Price varies: You get unlimited MLS market analysis (CMA)
  • Full-Service Package – Price varies: You will be assigned a dedicated local agent for negotiation support.

👉 Our Take: MLS Town’s reasonably priced packages can be expensive regarding customer support. Most companies offers this service for free.

⚡ Highlights

For California home sellers, MLS Town provides significant advantages:

  • Market Exposure: Your home listing will appear on Realtor.com, Redfin, and Zillow/Trulia, which will increase its visibility in the market.
  • Customer Support: Customer service is provided directly. Mathew Berg, their real estate broker, handles all support.
  • Transparent Pricing: Unlike national companies, MLS Town charges a flat fee with no hidden costs or upselling for updates like price changes or open house listings.
🚩 Deal Breakers

In our research, we came across some deal breakers with MLS Town.

  • Additional Charges: MLS Town charges $75 for every 30 minutes of customer support. This can add up quickly if you end up with questions. Most other listing companies include this for free.
  • Limited Coverage: You can’t opt for it if you’re outside Northern California or Chicagoland.
  • Limited Automation: Most of the paperwork is manual. This can delay your selling process.
⭐ Reviews

MLS Town has 5 star ratings from 60+ reviews on Google.

With MLS Town, customers can list their homes for a one-time flat fee with options starting as low as $95. Their “100% money-back guarantee” is an additional advantage. You have 7 days to try it out and get your money back if you are not completely satisfied.

MLS Town is low on tech. Manual paperwork may delay your selling process. Moreover, they offer bare-bone packages with little to no scope for customization.

5. Beycome

Beycome logoLogo-Link

DIY Real Estate Brokerage

Listing Fee: $99 - $599

4.5/5

600+ reviews
💲Pricing

Beycome Brokerage Realty LLC offers three Flat Fee MLS listing packages for homeowners:

  • Basic Package – $99: This package offers you unlimited changes to your listings.
  • Enhanced Package – $399: You get a yard sign, a featured listing on Beycome’s website, flyers, brochures, and one key lockbox. You can also add a virtual tour video to your listing. This package is available only in 8 states.
  • Concierge Service – $599 + 1% Commission: This is essentially a virtual full-service package that includes assistance till closing. They charge 1% of the sale price at closing. It is available only in 6 states.

👉 Our Take: Beycome’s prices are reasonable. However, their à la carte services comes with a hefty price tag. Also, the website is suitable only for experienced sellers.

⚡ Highlights

Beycome offers good service in the selected states they are available in:

  • Unrestricted Revisions and Edits: You can make unlimited changes to the description, photos, or price of your listing.
  • Expert Assistance, if Needed: You can get expert assistance on all 7 days of the week in English and Spanish.
🚩 Deal Breakers

In our research, we came across these deal breakers with Beycome:

  • Upselling Title Service: Beycome also owns a title company, which will be pitched to you repeatedly.
  • Limited Coverage: It is only available in 10 states.
  • Lack of Assistance: Most sellers had to manage price negotiation, showings, and closing by themselves. Sellers also complained about the delay in resolving issues.
  • Average Technology: Leads, inspections, appraisals, etc., are managed offline so the process can be cumbersome.
  • Only for Experienced Sellers: First-time sellers may not have experience in closing costs and seller disclosures. Beycome does not provide that much assistance in this area.
⭐ Reviews

Beycome has 4.5 out of 5 stars from 600+ reviews on Google.

» Beycome Reviews: Know why Beycome is not the best choice to sell your home.

Beycome’s MLS listing packages are reasonably priced and offer legal forms, seller disclosures, an Open House scheduler, and customer support. We recommend the $399 Enhanced Package for FSBO home sellers.

Beycome’s technology is limited and won’t help you with the scheduling and review of home inspections, appraisals, and closings. Separately, you’ll have to be very diligent and manage leads manually outside the platform too.

6. Flat Fee Group

Flat-Fee-MLS-Maine-Flat-Fee-Group.Logo-Link

CUSTOMIZABLE PACKAGES

Listing Fee: Starting at $195 (Varies as per the State)
No credible reviews were found
💲 Pricing

Flat Fee Group is a network of independent brokers providing Flat Fee MLS listings across the US. They offer 2 – 4 packages depending on the state:

  • Basic Package – $195 – $399: The price you pay will depend on the state you live in.
  • Add-Ons – $400 – $1,000: You can avail to services like yard signs, lock boxes, and negotiation assistance. Some brokers may charge you 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.

⚡ Highlights

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.
🚩 Deal Breakers

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.
⭐ Reviews

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.

Flat Fee Group.com’s pricing and multiple packages may seem attractive in listing a property for a flat fee. However, it works with a variety of different flat-fee brokerages, and not every homeowner will have the same experience.

In San Jose, Flat Fee Group’s Silver Package is priced at $299, Gold at $449, and Platinum at $500 + 0.5% at closing.

7. Homecoin

logo imageLogo-Link

AFFORDABLE PACKAGE

Listing Fee: $95

4.7/5

120+ reviews
💲 Pricing

Homecoin offers a single Flat Fee MLS package:

  • $95 Listing Package: You get a 12-month listing term with a free Homecoin sign.

Additional Services:

  • Sign Post Rental: $99+ (price varies by area)
  • Lockbox Rentals: $125 (price varies by MLS)
  • Pro Photography: $182 (price varies by area)
  • Seller Agent (varies): You can avail two packages for seller agent. Standard package costs $495 and the premium package costs $3000.

👉 Our Take: Homecoin offers only a single package for listing on the MLS. If you opt for any additional service, you end up paying extra.

Note: Homecoin’s services and prices vary by region.

⚡ Highlights

Homecoin has certain benefits:

  • Digital Automation: You can fill the listing documents online in their website.
  • Affordable Listing: Apart from expensive add-ons, you can list your homes on the MLS at an inexpensive price.
  • Covers 22 States: You can avail Homecoin services in 22 states across America. Some of the major states they cover are Florida, California, Texas, and Arizona.
🚩 Deal Breakers

In our research, we found some limitations of Homecoin, that could make your experience less satisfactory.

  • Essentials Are Add-Ons: Homecoin will charge you extra for features like showing management with a lockbox. You can counter an offer or request the highest and best offer.
  • Upgrades are Overpriced: If you want to manage showings, you have to rent a lockbox for $125.
  • Key Features Are Not Available: You do not get home inspections and appraisals, which could make your home less appealing to agents and buyers.
⭐ Reviews

Homecoin has 4.7 out of 5 stars from 120+ reviews on Yelp.

» Homecoin Reviews: Is the Flat Flat MLS company worth it? Read our blog to find out.

Homecoin is a website For Sale By Owner that offers a single MLS listing package, priced at $95. You can avail of their rental lockbox, professional real estate photography, or signposts at additional costs.

We do not recommend Homecoin for most home sellers. While the $95 flat fee is definitely attractive, the additional features come with a hefty price tag. Further, Homecoin’s limited coverage may make it difficult for many Americans to benefit from their MLS access package.

8. FSBO.com

Logo - FSBO.comLogo-Link

NATIONAL REFERRAL COMPANY

Listing Fee: $99.95 - $399
No credible reviews were found.
💲Pricing
  • FSBO Package: $99.95
  • MLS Package: $399.95
⚡ Highlights
  • Multiple Categories of Listings
  • User-Friendly Interface
  • Nationwide Coverage
🚩 Deal Breakers
  • Limited Automation
  • Unpredictable Broker Quality
  • Extra Charges for Listing Photos
  • Expensive à la carte Services
⭐ Reviews

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.

🚨 High Hidden Fees: San Jose Flat Fee services have charges that aren’t disclosed on their websites. These hidden fees can lower your net proceeds.

How Do Flat Fee Listing Services in San Jose Work?

San Jose 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 San Jose 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.

Flat Fee MLS DL Houzeo Exposure
If you list with Houzeo, your listing will also be visible on popular sites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and local MLSs.

How Much Can You Save With a Flat Fee MLS San Jose 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 San Jose flat rate MLS listing service like Houzeo costs $399, with a closing fee of just $350.

Imagine you own a $1,379,250 home in The Capital of Silicon Valley. If you choose a 3% Realtor, you pay $41,378 to get your house on the MLS. But, if you list with a flat fee service like Houzeo, you only pay $749 and save $40,629!

Service ProviderFeeCommission DueSavings
Traditional Agent3%$41,378$0
Houzeo$399$749*$40,629
* Houzeo’s Bronze Plan costs $399 and has a $350 closing fee.

Lara Shane Saved $24,000 With Houzeo, You Can Too!

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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 San Jose?

Here’s what you must consider when choosing San Jose Flat Fee MLS companies:

  1. Affordable Pricing: Select a Flat Fee MLS listing service 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.
  2. Maximum Exposure: Ensure that the San Jose Flat Fee MLS service provider gets your home on all the MLSs in your area. This will increase your home’s visibility.
  3. Maximum Photos: The MLS compatn must allow you to upload at least 22 pictures of your house. Professional photos taken from different angles help potential buyers visualize the property.
  4. Extended Listing Term: Choose a Flat Fee MLS San Jose company 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.
  5. Quick Listing: Select a local Flat Fee MLS San Jose 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 San Jose MLS via Houzeo

Follow these steps correctly to get an active MLS listing with Houzeo in 48 hours:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Set Your Asking Price: Use online tools to check the value of your home and set the asking price accordingly.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

15,000 Americans Have Listed Their Homes via Houzeo!

What Are You Waiting For?

List Your Home NOW!

» Houzeo Reviews: Find out why Houzeo is one of San Jose’s best Flat Fee MLS listing services.

Alternatives to San Jose Flat Fee Listing Services

San Jose 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 California 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 San Jose make offers for distressed houses within 24 to 48 hours.
  • For Sale By Owner Websites: For Sale By Owner websites in CA 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 Capital of Silicon Valley!

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 MLS listing site in San Jose, CA?

Houzeo is one of the top flat fee services in San Jose, CA because of its advanced tech and stellar customer reviews. Congress Realty and Brian Dombroski are other great options.

Can I list on the MLS without a real estate agent?

Yes, you can list your home on the California MLS 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 San Jose, CA?

Flat Fee MLS is legal all over the United States, including San Jose, CA.

Is Seller’s Disclosure required in California?

Yes. The CA seller disclosure form reveals all material defects and the general state of your property to potential buyers.

Why should I list my property on the San Jose, CA 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 San Jose, CA flat rate MLS listing service can help you avoid paying full commission to a real estate agent.

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