How to Sell Your Home Without a Traditional Real Estate Agent—and Still Win
FSBO is on the Rise
More and more homeowners are choosing to sell their homes without a traditional agent. Known as FSBO, or For Sale By Owner, this approach can help you avoid the typical 3% listing commission and retain control over your sale. But going it alone doesn’t mean doing everything without support.
Today’s sellers have access to tools that make FSBO easier—and more successful—than ever before.
What is FSBO?
A Quick Definition
FSBO means listing, marketing, and selling your home without hiring a full-service real estate agent. The main appeal? Saving money on commission and maintaining full decision-making power throughout the process. FSBO sellers save the standard 3% commission that traditional listing agents charge.
What is the Value of an MLS Listing?
The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is the core database used by real estate agents to sell houses, land, condos and more. It powers listings on major platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Redfin—where 90%+ of buyers search for homes.
As a homeowner, you can’t list directly on the MLS yourself. But flat fee MLS services allow you to access the MLS legally through a licensed broker—for a fraction of the traditional cost.
This is where the value of a Flat Fee Listing Broker can help.
What is a Flat Fee Broker?
A flat fee broker is a licensed real estate professional who lists your home on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) for a low upfront fee, along with a reduced commission due at closing. This model gives homeowners significant savings—often paying just 0.25% to 1% commission, compared to the traditional 3% or more charged by full-service agents.
In short: FSBO Sellers using a Flat Fee Broker get the benefits of an MLS Listing, without the bloated 3% commission.
FSBO Sellers can get their home on the MLS by using a Flat Fee Broker, without paying 3% commission to the listing agent.
How do Flat Fee Brokers differ from Traditional Real Estate Agents?
While both can list your home on the MLS and provide essential forms and disclosures, the service level varies. Flat fee brokers typically offer limited or à la carte services, meaning the homeowner takes on a more active role in the sales process—like pricing, showings, and negotiations. In contrast, traditional agents take a more guided approach but at a much higher cost.
Flat fee brokerage is ideal for sellers who want professional exposure and compliance support, while still maintaining control and saving significantly on commission fees.
What services does the Flat Fee Broker provide?
With a Flat Fee Broker, you share the selling process in order to save on commission. But, going with a Flat Fee Broker doesn’t mean going at it alone.
What the Flat Fee Broker Handles
Listing your property on the MLS
Providing legal forms and state disclosures
Ensuring compliance with MLS regulations
Syndicating your listing to top buyer platforms
Offering upgrades like lockboxes, signage, or broker assistance
What You’ll Handle as the Seller
- Setting the price. Look for Flat Fee Brokers who provides an automated pricing tool or Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) for a data-backed recommendation.
- Preparing your home for sale. Access staging tips and checklists to help your home make a great first impression.
- Taking or sourcing listing photos. Snap your own or hire a local professional through our trusted photographer network.
- Hosting showings and open houses. Our Premium package includes an online showing scheduler and unlimited open house announcements.
- Reviewing offers and negotiating terms. Not sure how to respond? Optional contract guidance or a transaction coordinator can walk you through each step.
- Coordinating closing and disclosures. We provide all required state forms, along with instructions and 7-day support if you have questions.
You will be supported every step of the way and this shared approach lets you stay in control—and keep up to 92% of the commission you’d typically pay a full-service agent’s services.
The real benefit to using a Flat Fee MLS Service is the seller dashboard. One place to manage showings, offers, documents, pricing & photos.
How to compare FSBO, Flat Fee Broker & Traditional Agents
Here’s a breakdown of common services, who can provide them and how much you would expect to pay.
| Feature | For Sale By Owner | Flat Fee Broker | Traditional Agent |
|---|---|---|---|
| MLS Listing |  Not included |  Included | Included |
| Upfront Cost | $0–low (DIY marketing) | Averages: $350 | $0 |
| Commission at Closing | None + up to 3% to buyer agent | Reduced (often 0.25%–1.0%) + up to 3% to buyer agent | High (2.5%–3%) + up to 3% to buyer agent |
| Exposure on Zillow, Realtor, etc. | Limited. Added & maintained manually | Yes (via MLS syndication) | Yes |
| Legal Forms & Disclosures | DIY or pay extra | Provided by broker | Handled by agent |
| Showings & Negotiations | Seller handles everything | Seller handles most | Agent handles all |
| Support & Guidance | None unless hired separately | Limited / à la carte options | Full-service |
| Cost Savings | Maximum | Significant | Least |
| Best For | Confident, experienced sellers | Budget-conscious sellers who want MLS | Sellers seeking full service & guidance |
What to Do Before You Go FSBO
Pre-Listing Checklist
Make a strong first impression with these prep steps:
- Declutter and deep clean every room
- Touch up paint and complete minor repairs
- Enhance curb appeal. Mulch, mow, and tidy up
- Pre-pack or stage your home. Go minimal for a clean look.
- Take bright, high-resolution listing photos, or connect with a professional photographer.
- Write a clear and accurate listing description.
- Gather important documents: HOA info, utility bills, recent repairs
- Choose a flat fee MLS service that matches your needs
Top Tips for FSBO Success
Get your house sold, fast!
- Price with data: Use an automated pricing tool, comps or a CMA to list strategically.
- Use high-quality photos: They increase clicks and perceived value.
- Respond quickly: Prompt replies help you stay competitive.
- Understand the paperwork: a Flat Fee Broker or closing attorney can help.
- Negotiate smartly: Know your bottom line—and when to hold or fold
MLS Your Home with a Flat Fee Service
Once your home is ready to hit the market, you need a proven way to get it in front of serious buyers. That’s where a flat fee MLS service comes in. With ListFlatly, sellers get access to professional tools and wide exposure—giving you the confidence to sell on your terms. Our Premium Listing Plan bridges the gap between DIY and full-service, offering enhanced support without the high commission
Final Thoughts: FSBO Doesn’t Mean Going It Alone
Selling your home yourself doesn’t mean sacrificing visibility, legality, or support. Flat fee MLS services help you:
- List where the buyers are
- Stay compliant with state and MLS rules
- Customize your experience based on what you need
- Keep track of offers, documents, photos & price history through your seller dashboard
- Negotiate smartly: Know your bottom line—and when to hold or fold
Your FSBO Savings Worksheet
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Estimated Sale Price (ex: $400,000) | $__________ |
| 3% Listing Agent Commission (ex: $400,000 x .03 = $12,000) | $__________ |
| List Flatly, Essential + 0.25% (ex: ($400,000 x .0025) + $199 = $1,199) | $__________ |
| List Flatly (Premium + 0.25%) (ex: ($400,000 x .0025) + $399 = $1,399) | $__________ |
| Your Estimated Savings (ex: $12,000 – $1,399 = $10,601) | $__________ |
How Much Will You Save With A Flat Fee MLS Listing?
Enter your address to find out!
Step 1: Choose a Flat Fee MLS Plan
ESSENTIAL
Best for experienced sellerswho want control & savings
-
6 month listing term
with option to add more time if needed -
Maximum Photos
-
Listing on top sites
Zillow, Realtor, Trulia, Homes, Redfin & more -
Automated Pricing Tool
-
Listing forms
& disclosure forms included -
Full Service Support Team
available 7 days per week -
Cancel Anytime
Any Reason
PREMIUM
Best for first time sellersand sellers wanting extra support
-
EVERYTHING in Essential, plus:
-
12 month listing term
with option to add more time if needed -
Personal Transaction Coordinator
Included. ($395 value) -
Online Scheduling Tool
Included. ($59 value) -
Unlimited Open Houses
Included. ($100 value) -
For Sale Yard Sign
Included. ($49 value) -
Virtual Tour Posting
Included. ($40 value)