4.9
Editor's Rating (109 Reviews)5
User Rating (8 Reviews)Simple Choice Realty is a real estate brokerage. They help homeowners list their properties on the MLS for a flat fee. Sellers gain access to a broad buyer network. Plus, the service suits homeowners who want lower costs and control over the selling process.
Pros
Cons
Simple Choice Realty is a real estate brokerage headquartered in Pennsylvania. They operate under the brand HomeZu by Simple Choice. They offer nationwide coverage through a network of partner brokers. Their Flat Fee MLS packages range from $49 to $749.
However, HomeZu by Simple Choice doesn’t fully represent sellers unless they select the “Full Service” package. Plus, basic plans exclude pricing strategy, offer negotiation, and contract support. This can increase selling complexity and overall costs for sellers.
- ✍️ Editor’s Take: We recommend Houzeo over Simple Choice Realty. With Houzeo, you get all essential services starting from $249. Moreover, Houzeo is 100% online through its web platform and mobile app. Compare Houzeo vs. Simple Choice Realty.
Key Takeaways
- Simple Choice Realty offers a Flat Fee MLS listing service through its HomeZu brand. Sellers can list on the MLS without full-service agent support.
- They mainly serve FSBO sellers. This works best for sellers who can handle pricing, showings, and negotiations on their own.
- Pricing starts as low as $49 in some states. Higher plans can go up to $749 depending on location. A small closing fee applies after a successful sale.
- Listings usually go live on the MLS within one business day. Homes also appear on Zillow, Realtor.com, and other major platforms.
- Sellers get a dashboard to manage their listing. They control photos, price changes, and buyer agent commission.
- Optional upgrades are available in some states. These include full-service support, more photos, open house postings, and contract help.
- Simple Choice Realty reviews highlight strong value for money and fast MLS exposure. Some sellers note that advanced tools and hands-on support cost extra.
Simple Choice Realty Reviews
HomeZu by Simple Choice has a 4.9 out of 5 rating on Google, based on 109 reviews. Additionally, they have a 3.7 out of 5-star rating on Yelp. However, these ratings are based on only a few reviews. So, we cannot vouch for their service quality based on these ratings.
Simple Choice Realty Positive Reviews
✅ Max Levenson found HomeZu easy to use and responsive. They felt no need for a traditional realtor. The flat-fee approach delivered good results. They see it as a strong value option.
HomeZu was easy to navigate and responsive when I had questions. I didn’t feel like my place needed a realtor to ‘sell it’ so I decided to go this direction and it worked out really well. It’s a great value.
Source: Google
✅ Pete Chim had a smooth FSBO experience with HomeZu. They managed their MLS listing online through a self-service platform. The pricing helped them save compared to a traditional realtor.
Great experience doing FSBO – was able to manage everything about the MLS via their website, it was very self-service oriented. The price was great, and we saved a ton compared to using a traditional relator. Support was also really amazing, Chris was super responsive. I wish more people knew about this service, we’ll be using them the next time we sell a house. Thanks so much.
Source: Google
Simple Choice Realty Negative Reviews
❌ Westledge R. expresses frustration with HomeZu’s communication. They received quick contact initially. Response stopped once they tried to cancel.
They’re more than willing to contact you almost immediately unless you’re trying to cancel. Then they seem to fall off the face of the earth.
Source: Yelp
Pros and Cons of Simple Choice Realty
Let’s evaluate the pros and cons of Simple Choice Realty to see if they are an ideal choice for you.
✅ Pros
Simple Choice Realty offers some benefits to home sellers and buyers.
- Experienced Broker: Chris Carr, Simple Choice Realty’s broker, has over 20 years of experience in real estate. His knowledge will help you get the best deal for your house.
- Free Listing Changes: You can make changes to your listing without paying any additional fees.
- State Disclosures: Simple Choice Realty provides all required seller disclosure forms.
❌ Cons
During our research, we found certain limitations of Simple Choice Realty.
- Expensive Plans: Simple Choice Realty’s plans are overpriced compared to their competitors.
- Limited Technology: Although Simple Choice Realty offers an online listing process, they lack a platform to help you schedule showings or manage offers. You also need to compare offers manually to get the highest and best offer.
Is Simple Choice Realty Legit?
Yes. Simple Choice Realty is a legitimate real estate company founded in 2006. Chris Carr, a licensed real estate broker with over two decades of experience, founded Simple Choice Realty.
The company is headquartered in Lafayette Hill, Pennsylvania. It now operates as HomeZu by Simple Choice. Through the HomeZu broker network, they offer services to sellers in all 50 states.
» What’s My Home’s Value: You can know your home’s market value with Houzeo’s free Home Worth Estimator. It helps you estimate the amount you will get upon sale.
How Does Simple Choice Realty Work?
Here’s how Simple Choice Realty (HomeZu by Simple Choice) works when you list your home:
- Choose a Package: You pick the level of service you want, from a basic flat fee MLS listing to optional add-ons or support services.
- Create Your Listing: You upload photos, add property details, and sign all required listing documents online.
- Get Your Home on the MLS: Your property goes live on the local MLS in as little as one business day and gets syndication on major real estate sites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Trulia.
- Show the Home: You schedule open houses or showings with buyers or their agents, or use a lockbox to let agents show the home without you present.
- Manage Offers: You receive and negotiate offers directly with buyers or their agents. You also decide whether to offer a buyer agent commission or not.
- Accept an Offer: When you accept a satisfactory offer, you move forward with the sale and save on commission costs compared with traditional agent fees.
Simple Choice Realty Reviews: Coverage
Simple Choice Realty operates under the HomeZu by Simple Choice network. They provide nationwide coverage through a network of partner brokers. This setup allows them to serve home sellers in all 50 states.
Chris Carr, the founder and licensed broker, holds licenses in six states. These include Arkansas, Delaware, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Combined with the HomeZu broker network, this structure supports broad geographic reach.
Simple Choice Realty Pricing
» Jump to: Low Risk MLS | Essential MLS | Virtual Full Service | MLS With Contract Review
Simple Choice Realty offers four MLS listing packages to suit different seller needs and budgets. The plans vary by upfront cost, service level, and broker involvement.
Their packages range from basic MLS exposure to added contract review and support. But some packages are available only in Pennsylvania.
Low Risk MLS
This plan costs $49 upfront with a 0.5% fee at closing. It includes an MLS listing for six months with up to 25 photos. The lower upfront cost helps reduce initial financial risk.
Essential MLS
This plan costs $399 with a 0.1% fee. It provides an MLS listing for six months and allows up to 25 photos. It works well for sellers who want a standard flat fee MLS option.
Virtual Full Service
This plan is available only in Pennsylvania. It costs $499 with a 1% fee. It offers more broker involvement than basic MLS plans.
MLS With Contract Review
This plan is available only in Pennsylvania and costs $749 with a 0.1% fee. It includes an MLS listing for six months with up to 25 photos. The broker reviews one contract and provides feedback and coaching to help sellers navigate the process.
Support is available throughout the sale, but sellers handle direct communication with buyers or their agents. Each additional contract review costs $100.
Listing Upgrades
You have to pay an additional fee for service upgrades not offered in their packages.
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| 12-month listing | $99 |
| Upgraded customized sign | $125 |
| Combination lockbox | $50 |
| Electronic lockbox | $100 |
| Realtor.com weekly report | $25 |
| Same-day listing | $50 |
- 👉 Important: Though optional, most of these services are essential to simplify the home-selling process. So, you may have to pay between $500 to $1,000, depending on the package you select.
Simple Choice Realty Competitors
» Jump to: Simple Choice Realty vs. Houzeo | Simple Choice Realty vs. Flat Fee Group | Simple Choice Realty vs. List With Freedom
1. Simple Choice Realty vs. Houzeo
With Simple Choice Realty, service levels vary by plan. Basic options offer limited seller representation. Key support such as pricing guidance, offer negotiation, and contract assistance may not be included. This can raise effort and total selling costs.
With Houzeo, you get transparent pricing and comprehensive services. You are free to choose the buyer agent commission, with no minimum amount. Moreover, Houzeo’s web technology and mobile app make home selling a breeze.
| Features | Simple Choice Realty | Houzeo |
|---|---|---|
| Fee | $399 | $249 onwards |
| Customer Rating | 4.9 stars (109 reviews) | 4.9 stars (11,243 reviews) |
| Coverage | Nationwide | Nationwide |
| Unlimited Listing Changes | ✅ | ✅ |
| Showings Management | ❌ | ✅ |
| Offer Management | ❌ | ✅ |
| Counter an Offer | ❌ | ✅ |
| Request Highest and Best Offer | ❌ | ✅ |
| Home Inspection Dashboard | ❌ | ✅ |
| Mobile App | ❌ | ✅ |
2. Simple Choice Realty vs. Flat Fee Group
Flat Fee Group is a network of licensed brokers working in 48 states and Washington D.C. Their packages and services vary from state to state.
Flat Fee Group’s cheapest package in any state usually offers better services than Simple Choice Realty’s. However, a limitation of working with Flat Fee Group is that you may lack the technology to simplify your FSBO journey.
3. Simple Choice Realty vs. List With Freedom
List With Freedom is a licensed brokerage in 46 states. So you can list with them regardless of your location. Be careful though; Listwithfreedom.com’s packages may seem cheap, starting as low as $89. However, they also charge you an additional fee of 0.25% at closing.
Best Flat Fee Companies Near You
If you reside outside Simple Choice Realty’s coverage area, here are the top flat fee companies that serve your state.
Other Options You Should Consider
- Sell to an iBuyer: iBuyers purchase homes needing minimal repairs in as-is condition. They can be a great option if you want to sell your house fast.
- Sell to Cash Home Buyers: Individual cash home buyers make all-cash offers, usually within 24 to 48 hours. They also let you skip listing on the MLS.
- Sell For Sale By Owner: For Sale By Owner websites help you list and sell a house yourself, saving thousands in agent commissions. Many FSBO websites will also help you with the paperwork.
Simple Choice Realty Reviews: Are They Worth It?
We recommend listing with Houzeo over Simple Choice Realty. They offer limited support for essential services such as pricing guidance and negotiation help. Their technology is also basic. This may require you to manage tasks like offer comparison on your own.
On the other hand, Houzeo lets you list on the MLS and offers everything you need to sell a house. Moreover, you get access to their web technology and mobile app that makes home selling quick and easy. With nationwide coverage, Houzeo is an ideal FSBO partner for most home sellers.
» Houzeo Reviews: Check out why more than 11,000 home sellers have rated Houzeo 4.9 stars out of 5 on Google Reviews and Trustpilot.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does the Simple Choice Realty MLS Listing package offer?
The MLS Listing Package by Simple Choice Realty provides some basic services for $399. However, for the same price, Houzeo offers you a better deal. Moreover, their web technology and mobile app make the home selling a breeze!
2. Can I list my house on the MLS without an agent?
Yes, you can list your home as For Sale by Owner on the MLS by hiring a reliable MLS listing service like Houzeo. Houzeo helps you save on the listing agent's commission while providing all sorts of features you may need. Learn more about Houzeo.
3. Is Flat Fee MLS worth it?
Yes, definitely. Flat-fee MLS services like Houzeo will not only make the For Sale By Owner (FSBO) process easier for you but will also save you thousands of dollars otherwise spent as a listing commission. Check out Houzeo reviews.
Flat Fee Listing Services Near Me
| Region | Cash Home Buyers |
|---|---|
| Nationwide | MLS My Home | Brokerless | Fizber | Flat Fee Group | MLS My Home | Brokerless Inc | UnReal Estate |
| Near-Nationwide | List With Freedom | Homecoin | Flat Fee Realty | Buyself Realty |
| Northeast | Simple Choice Realty | Realmart |
| Midwest | Lake Country Flat Fee | Madcity Homes | Broker Direct MLS | Ohio Flat Fee MLS | Reozom | Flat Fee Pros | Kermath Realty | Modern Way Realty | Flat Fee MLS Realty | Circle One Realty | Congress Realty |
| South | FlatList.com | ListingSpark | Creek View Realty | Mr. Lister Realty | Mink Realty | List Now Realty | Listingly | Adams Family Real Estate | Simply List |
| West | Savvy Lane Reviews | Lowes Flat Fee Realty | By Owner Oregon |
Reviews
(8 Reviews)
Pat
Verified Reviewer
Ken Klinvex
Verified Reviewer
28th Oct 2023
Chris Carr was fantastic! He helped me every step of the way through a complex process and was always available. Great service and value. I highly recommend!
Steve I
Verified Reviewer
27th Oct 2023
My experience with Chris and Simple Choice Realty has been superb. I ahve listed and sold several properties now with Chris and his brokerage. His responses to my questions are lightening fast and I plan to use his services many more times in the future. Highly recommended.
Paige Roller
Verified Reviewer
25th Oct 2023
We have sold 2 houses using Simple Choice. Chris was very helpful during both transactions, answered any questions we had, gave us direction when we asked. After selling our first house using Simple Choice, the process was so easy and smooth, a few years later we listed through them and sold another home. We have zero real-estate knowledge or experience, and we had no problem navigating the process. I would fully recommend them, and if we ever move again- we would use them again.
Nicole Lysak
Verified Reviewer
25th Oct 2023
I use Chris Carr and his team at Simple Choice for all my listings in the states he is a broker in. They are responsive, professional, and their portal is incredibly easy to navigate. Keep up the good work Chris and team!
Ron B
Verified Reviewer
25th Oct 2023
I listed and sold my house through Simple Choice in 2021. I paid the $399, but did not pay 2.1% commission. A number of potential buyers did contact Chris@SimpleChoice, and he simply referred them to me, no commission required. He responded to inquiries within an hour or two at most, 7 days/week. For agents, I negotiated with them separately, some wanted 4%, others would have settled for 1%…it was between them and us. In the end, we sold it directly with no commission…the best of both words… listed on MLS for max exposure, no hardwired 4-6% commission. I’d do it again. Ron
Nicole Lysak
Verified Reviewer
25th Oct 2023
I use Chris Carr and his team at Simple Choice for all my listings in the states he is a broker in. They are responsive, professional, and their portal is incredibly easy to navigate. Keep up the good work Chris and team!
James Short
Verified Reviewer
Chris was very responsive to all of my questions
28th Oct 2023
Great service. Sold our place quickly and everything was smooth with simple choice. Will definitely use again.