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 Service | Price | Additional Fees | 100% Online | Offer Management | Showing Management | 5-star Reviews | Mobile App |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1. Houzeo | $349 | None | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
2. Congress Realty | $299- $499 | None | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
3. Brian Dombroski | $299- $999 | None | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
4. MLS Town | $99-$295 | $300 | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
5. Beycome | $99 | None | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
6. Flat Fee Group | $449 | None | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
7. Homecoin | $95 | High Hidden Fees | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
8. FSBO.com | $399 | $75 - $150 | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Reviews: 8 Best Flat Fee MLS Listing Service Companies in San Jose, CA
1. Houzeo
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 11,098 Americans love Houzeo.
Houzeo is America’s #1 Flat Fee MLS service because of these strong reasons:
- Max Exposure: Your home listing is syndicated to popular real estate websites like Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, giving it nationwide visibility.
- 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.
- 5-star Customer Service: You have access to 24/7 listing support with chat and email services 6 days a week.
- No Hidden Fees: What you see is what you pay. Houzeo mentions all of its fees upfront on its website.
There are no dealbreakers with Houzeo.
» Is Houzeo Legit? Houzeo addresses home sellers concerns with efficiency.
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 11,098 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
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, it should also take into consideration the 0.5% they charge at closing.
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.
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.
Congress Realty has an excellent rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 90+ reviews on Google.
» Congress Realty Reviews: Is Congress Realty worth it? Read our blog to find out.
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
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. Additionally, you get a listing on DombroskiRE.com, social media marketing, and CMA 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.
Dombrowski Real Estate is an excellent Flat Fee MLS option for California home sellers for these reasons:
- Experienced Brokers: Brian and his team are knowledgeable and willing to go above and beyond to complete the task. His expertise can help you get the best deal for your home.
- Good Customer Service: Dombroski Real Estate offers prompt and reliable support, guiding you through every step of the process.
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.
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
MLS Town offers three Flat Fee MLS Packages and one full-service package for home sellers in Northern California.
- Basic Package – $95: Includes a 3-month listing with up to 8 photos. Additional services, such as offer negotiation, cost $75 per 30 minutes, and MLS Market Analysis (CMA) is priced at $50.
- Annual Package – $295: Lists your home for 1 year with up to 16 photos. The first 30 minutes of listing support are free; further support costs $75 per 30 minutes. Other services mirror the Basic Package.
- Premium Package – Price varies: Provides unlimited listing changes, CMA, negotiation support, and a listing term of 2 years or until sold or canceled. This package is customizable to your needs.
- Full-Service Package – Price varies: Includes the full assistance of a listing broker to guide you through the listing process, offering more comprehensive support for home sellers.
👉 Our Take: MLS Town’s reasonably priced packages can be expensive regarding customer support. Every other company offers this service for free.
For California home sellers, MLS Town provides significant advantages:
- Market Exposure: Listings appear on Realtor.com, Redfin, Coldwell Banker, Zillow/Trulia, and other major real estate websites.
- 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.
- Refund Policy: You get a 7-day trial period. If you are not satisfied, you will receive a full refund.
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 services include this for free.
- Limited Coverage: MLS Town is only available in select markets of Northern California.
- Limited Automation: Most of the paperwork is manual. This can delay your selling process.
MLS Town has no customer reviews on popular sites like Google or Trustpilot.
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 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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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
Homecoin offers only one Flat Fee MLS package:
- Flat Fee MLS Listing – $95: It includes a 12-month listing term, 25+ photos, call forwarding, info by text, email forwarding, and state and federal disclosures. You also get up to 10 free listing changes.
Add-ons:
- Sign Post Rental: $105 (price varies by area)
- Lockbox Rentals: $125 (price varies by MLS)
- Pro Photography: $182 (price varies by area)
- Seller Agent: They offer two packages for seller agent. Standard package costs $495 and the premium package costs $2,999.
👉 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. Our research is conducted in the 90001 ZIP code.
Based on our research, the benefits of Homecoin are:
- Digital Automation: The listing documents can be filled out online on their website.
- Affordable Listing: Apart from expensive add-ons, your home gets listed on the MLS at an inexpensive price.
- Covers 22 States: Homecoin covers Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.
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: Key features, like inspections and appraisals, are missing in Homecoin’s offerings. Without these, you risk turning off buyers and buyer agents.
Homecoin has 4.8 out of 5 stars from 120+ reviews on Yelp.
» Homecoin Reviews: Is Homecoin 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
- 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 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.
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 Provider | Fee | Commission Due | Savings |
Traditional Agent | 3% | $41,378 | $0 |
Houzeo | $399 | $749* | $40,629 |
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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:
- 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 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.