✏️ Editor’s Note: Realtor Associations, agents, and MLS’ have started implementing changes related to the NAR’s $418 million settlement. While home-sellers will likely save thousands in commission, compliance and litigation risks have significantly increased for sellers throughout the nation. Learn how NAR’s settlement affects home sellers.
If you’re selling your house in Tennessee, you need to list it on the MLS. The MLS is the most powerful tool to sell and buy homes in Tennessee.
Only real estate agents have access to the MLS. But as a home seller, you don’t have to pay thousands in listing commission to an agent to list and sell your home. There are 4 options how you can list on MLS:
- List Yourself via a FSBO Website (Most Recommended): Some of the best FSBO sites will let you list and sell your home yourself. And in doing so, you’ll save thousands in commission!
- List on a Flat Fee MLS Service: A Flat Fee MLS service will get you on the MLS for a flat fee, with no listing commission.
- List with a Discount Broker: Discount Brokers charge anywhere from 0.5% to 2% in commission. Here’s our ranking of America’s best discount real estate brokers.
- List with a Traditional Agent (Least Recommended): A traditional real estate agent will charge you a full 2.5% to 3% commission. Plus they can be old school, with manual and inefficient processes.
Home prices in Tennessee are rising but are expected to reduce further as the year progresses. So, if you want to sell your house in Tennessee, now is the time!
MLS is Key for Sellers 💯
- Most homes in the Tennessee sell via the MLS. The MLS gives you unparalleled exposure to both buyer agents and buyers.
- Homes on MLS sold for 17% more than non-MLS listed homes, according to a Bright MLS study. MLS homes also sold faster.
- MLS listings get syndicated to Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, Redfin, and hundreds of other websites giving your property critical exposure.
- There are 600+ MLS’ in the U.S. It is critical you list on your local MLS. This ensures your listing is viewable to your local buyer agents.
What is the MLS in Real Estate?
Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is a database that enables real estate agents and brokers to list and view homes for sale. An MLS listing includes all the information about your property, such as its price, description, and photos.
The homes listed on MLS are syndicated to various online real estate websites. This amplifies the exposure your property gets.
Only licensed real estate agents have access to the MLS. Consequently, only real estate agents can create MLS listings.
» List with Houzeo in Tennessee: List on MLS by owner with Houzeo.com without a real estate agent license.
Benefits of Listing a Home on MLS
Listed below are some of the benefits of listing on the MLS in Tennessee:
- Get Maximum Exposure: When you list on MLS, your listing gets syndicated to hundreds of real estate websites such as Zillow, Trulia, Redfin, and Realtor.com. This boosts your property’s visibility to potential buyers.
- Market to Buyer Agents: According to NAR, 86% of home buyers purchased their homes through a buyer agent last year. Listing on MLS is the most effective way to market your property to potential buyers.
- Incentivize the Buyer Agent: As mentioned above, buyer agents are involved in most real estate transactions. The MLS allows you to incentivize buyer agents with a competitive commission.
- You Can Sell Faster: Homes listed on MLS are sold 17% faster than those that were not listed on MLS.
What is a Flat Fee MLS listing?
A flat fee MLS listing service will list your house on the Tennessee MLS at a flat rate. Unlike hiring RE agents, you can skip paying a hefty sum as a commission with a flat fee MLS service.
There are two types of flat fee services:
- MLS Entry-Only Services: They only list your home on Tennessee MLS for you. Some might also syndicate it to other websites like Zillow and Trulia.
- MLS Packages: They provide additional services, besides listing on the MLS, like photography, yard signs, and showings.
Rankings: 5 Best Flat Fee MLS Services to List on MLS Yourself in Tennessee:
| Flat Fee MLS Service | Price | Additional Fees | 100% Online | 5-Star Reviews | Mobile App |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Houzeo | $229-$1200 | None | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 2.Flat Fee Group | $499-$5000 | None | ⛔ | ⛔ | ⛔ |
| 3.FSBO.com | $99.95-$399.95 | $150-$300 | ⛔ | ⛔ | ⛔ |
| 4.Tennessee Flat Fee MLS | $99-$179 | None | ⛔ | ⛔ | ⛔ |
| 5.Martin Properties | $95-$895 | Varies | ⛔ | ⛔ | ⛔ |
Reviews: 5 Best Flat Fee MLS Companies in Tennessee
1. Houzeo.com
4.9/5
(5,465 reviews)
Queen's Take
Houzeo offers the best combination of maximum savings, advanced technology, 5-star customer support, and listing exposure.
Houzeo offers 4 comprehensive Flat Fee MLS listing plans.
- Bronze – $379+: In this basic plan, you get a 6-month listing term with 24 photos. You get unlimited listing changes and open houses.
- Silver – $399+: In the silver plan, you can list 24 photos for 6 months. You also get a yard sign and unlimited listing changes.
- Gold – $379+: Gold is Houzeo’s signature MLS package with tech features like Houzeo Showings, Houzeo Offers, and DigiTransact.
- Platinum – $349+: This is the ultimate flat fee plan with a 1-year listing term and virtual full-service from a licensed broker.
👉 Houzeo Reviews: Find out why Houzeo is America’s #1 MLS listing service!
Houzeo has the best tech available for a Flat Fee MLS platform. Check out Houzeo Reviews.
- Maximum Savings: With Houzeo you save at least 3% on listing agent commission. All fees are disclosed upfront, so there are no Houzeo hidden fees.
- Advanced Tech: Houzeo’s tech is stellar. You get an intuitive seller’s dashboard, free mobile app, and 100% online paperwork.
- Maximum Exposure: Your home is listed on 100+ real estate websites like Zillow and Trulia. This ensures maximum eyeballs on your property.
- Nationwide Coverage: Houzeo covers 47 states and DC.
👉 Houzeo Customer Reviews: Houzeo is rated “Excellent” with a 4.9 out of 5-star rating by 5,000+ home sellers on Google reviews and Trustpilot.
In our research, we found no major red flags with Houzeo. Customers have consistently given positive reviews about their experience.
» Houzeo Complaints: Find out what sellers said about Houzeo.
Houzeo is rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by 5,000+ customers on Google and Trustpilot.
» Houzeo Reviews: Over 5,000 home sellers have rated Houzeo as “Excellent.”
2. Flat Fee Group
0/5
(No credible reviews)
Queen's Take
Flat Fee Group™ is a national association of the best flat fee brokers and REALTORS®. All brokers have been real estate agents for many years having closes thousands of deals. Click on your state and interview one of our independent brokers.
Flat Fee Group provides 3-4 packages that vary as per state.
Common Services: Your listing gets activated within 48 hrs with a listing term of 6 to 12 months. In the full-service package, you get broker assistance which is expensive.
» Flat Fee Group Reviews: Do consider reading these reviews before choosing Flat Fee Group.
Flat Fee Group is available in all the states.
- Package Customization: You can get your package customized for a small additional fee.
- State Disclosures: You get all the necessary contracts, forms, disclosures, and addenda you need from Flat Fee Group.
- Great Exposure: Flat Fee Group will list your home on sites like Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com.
» Pros and Cons of Flat Fee Group: Read the blog for an in-depth analysis of Flat Fee Group.
Flat Fee Group has certain red flags which can make your experience terrible.
- Not 100% Online: Flat Fee Group is not fully online. Therefore, the process becomes manual and time-consuming. You’ll be on your own to provide tours and interact with potential buyers.
- Extra Fees: The closing costs can vary significantly as per your state and the listing package you choose. You will have to budget for these costs if you do not want to be caught off-guard.
Flat Fee Group operates on the agent referral system. There are several flat-fee brokerages that it works with, and no two sellers will have the same experience.
» Flat Fee Group Reviews: Read the reviews on Flat Fee Group and choose accordingly.
3. FSBO.com
2.7/5
(5 reviews)
Queen's Take
FSBO.com offers For Sale By Owner services, saving you money on costly commissions. They do not, however, directly list you on the MLS.
FSBO.com offers 2 packages for FSBO home sellers.
- Basic Package – $99.95: This is a basic plan where your property is listed on FSBO.com and Redfin for 6 months. You do not get MLS listing in this plan.
- MLS Package – $399.95: The package includes an MLS listing term of 6 months with up to 20 photos.
Additional Services
- Classic FSBO.com Yard Sign w/ Stand: $60
- Directional Arrow – For Sale By Owner: $12
- Open House Directional Arrow: $12
- Sign Riders: $12
👑 The Queen’s Take: FSBO.com offers For Sale By Owner services, saving you thousands on hefty commissions. However, they do not list you on the MLS directly. Instead, they connect you with a broker at the state level.
👉FSBO.com Pricing: Read to know more about FSBO.com pricing.
FSBO.com can be useful for experienced home sellers.
- Multiple Listing Categories: You get to highlight your listing in specific sections dedicated to foreclosure, pre-foreclosure, tax lien, or bankruptcy.
- User‑Friendly Interface: FSBO.com has a simple website that is easy to navigate. It has a basic interface that enables you to create your listing by adding relevant information.
👉 Pros and Cons of FSBO.com: Read the benefits and drawbacks of listing with FSBO.com.
In our research, we found some drawbacks of FSBO.com.
- Extra Charges for Listing Photos: If you want to add more than 20 photos to your listing, you have to pay extra fees of $50 to $60.
- Expensive à La Carte Services: For add-on services like e-lockbox rental and showing service you have to pay $150 and $75 respectively. These services are costly compared to other Flat-fee MLS service providers.
- Limited Tech: FSBO.com lacks automation features. You have to manage your listings on your own.
- No DIY Resources: FSBO.com does not provide any resources to enhance your listing experience.
FSBO.com has no reviews from credible sources.
» FSBO.com Reviews: Read to learn more about FSBO.com
4. Tennessee Flat Fee MLS
0/5
(No credible reviews)
Queen's Take
Tennessee Flat Fee MLS helps sellers identify those discount brokers who offer the lowest “fee for service” within their local market. If you are on a tight budget it could be a good choice for you.
Tennessee Flat Flat Fee MLS provides 2 FSBO MLS listing packages.
- MLS By Owner – $99: The package includes a local MLS listing of 6 months with 6 photos. It includes state disclosures, forms, and free status changes. You also get to select a buyer’s agent commission of your choice.
- MLS By Owner – $149: The package includes everything from the $99 plan with 25 photos (or max allowed).
Tennessee Flat Fee MLS is a good option for sellers looking for a budget deal.
- Inexpensive Packages: Tennessee Flat Fee MLS offers all the basic services for just $99. This plan is a good choice for experienced sellers who need a basic listing service.
- Package Upgrade: You have the option to upgrade your basic package so that you can add a virtual house tour on Realtor.com.
In our research, we found some deal breakers with Tennesse Flat Fee MLS.
- Extra Fee at Closing: Your listings in Tennessee are forwarded to ListWithFreedom.com or other flat fee brokers by Tennesse Flat Fee MLS. Tennesse Flat Fee MLS forwards your listings in Tennesse to ListWithFreedom.com or other Flat Fee brokers. They also charge an additional 0.25% fee at time of closing. So please read the listing agreement carefully.
- Low on Tech: Tennesse Flat Fee MLS is low on tech as it has a very basic website.
- Limited Photos: In their basic package priced at $99 package it allows only 6 photos. You need a maximum number of photos to show your property to attract potential buyers. With only 6 photos it actually limits your exposure.
- No Customization: You cannot customize your package as per your needs. In the package, you don’t even get a ‘For Sale’ yard sign or lockbox.
- No Free Changes To Listing: You have to pay for making changes to your listing information or photos! With Houzeo you can make unlimited changes to your listing.
We recommend their MLS By Owner Package priced at $149. However, you should know that Tennessee Flat Fee MLS is low on tech and provides no upgrades.
5. Martin Properties
3.4/5
(19 reviews)
Queen's Take
Don Martin’s For Sale Martin Properties offers MLS Listings in Tennessee for as low as $95. Don has over three decades of experience selling homes in TN.
Martin Properties is a local TN Flat Fee MLS listing service with 4 plans on offer.
- By Owner MLS Economy – $95: You get a listing term of 3 months with 10 photos. Listing gets activated within 3 business days.
- By Owner MLS Plus – $195: You get a listing term of 6 months with 24 photos. Listing gets activated in 2 business days. You get unlimited free changes to your listing.
- MLS Upgrade Package – $295: You get everything from the MLS Plus package with a 12-month listing upgrade.
- MLS Gold Package – $895: The plan includes complete listing terms with 30 photos and 1 video. Your listing gets activated in 1 day.
Here is what you pay for additional services:
- Yard Sign (Not included in any plan – You must buy separately)
- Admin Fee: $45
- Only one FREE listing change (You pay extra for changes)
Martin Properties can be a decent choice for TN sellers who have some experience with the tough real estate market.
- Veteran Broker: Martin Properties is led by broker Don Martin. Don has over thirty years of experience selling homes in TN. This is a good option for experienced sellers looking for someone close to home.
- Multiple Plans: The plans on offer range from $95 – $895. Budget-conscious sellers can select the plan according to their needs.
Martin Properties has a few drawbacks that can derail a smooth sale.
- Missing Features: Essential services such as e-sign and professional photography is unavailable on the website. Additionally, you must pay extra for a Yard Sign.
- Barebones Listing: All four plans on offer are elementary listing plans. You are left to fend for yourself without any broker assistance.
- Additional Costs: You get only one free listing change. You have to pay extra for further changes. This price is not mentioned on the website clearly.
We recommend Martin Properties only for local TN residents who know their way around the real estate space. Opt for MLS Upgrade Package, priced at $295 for a 12-month listing term.
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💡 Cheapest Ways to List on MLS: Paying 3% of the purchase price as real estate commission can become an unwelcomed expense if you are an experienced seller. We recommend opting for a Flat Fee MLS Package for listing For Sale By Owner on MLS.
How to List Your House on MLS in Tennessee?
You can list your house on Tennessee MLS using several methods, using a full service realtor or a Flat Fee MLS service. However, the steps to listing on the MLS are the same.
Here we can look through the basic steps of “how to list on the MLS”.
- Do Your Research: There are several ways to access the MLS, hiring a real estate agent is just one of them. You should know all your options before proceeding.
- Find What Suits You Best: Most companies offer a range of Flat Fee MLS listing packages, differing in features according to the seller’s experience, the listing term, and MLS coverage.
- Get Professional Photographs: 87% of buyers rely on photographs to make a decision. Accordingly, getting professionally clicked photos of your house can help you sell your house faster.
- Create a Listing: While creating a listing for your local MLS, go with a catchy headline, comprehensive description, and attractive photographs.
- Get listed on MLS: After finalizing these all prospects, forward the same to the listing agent and get your property listed on the MLS.
How Much Does it Cost to List on MLS in Tennessee
The cost of listing on the Tennessee MLS depends on the method you use. You can pick a full service agent or a flat fee MLS service.
A full service agent will require you to pay a seller agent commission of 2-3%. A flat fee MLS service will get you listed at a flat rate.
However, beware of hidden charges and fees at closing. Some sites may not be upfront about these costs.
Alternatives to Listing on MLS By Owner in Tennessee
There are alternative ways to List on the MLS By Owner, and they are as follows.
- Going Completely FSBO: ‘For Sale By Owner’ refers to selling real estate without the assistance of a real estate agent or broker. Many For Sale By Owner MLS listing services like Houzeo, Zillow, Craigslist, and ForSaleByOwner.com offer free listings on their respective websites.
- Discount Real Estate Brokers: A discount real estate broker offers all the services that a traditional real estate agent does for a fraction of the cost. They typically sell your house for a 1% commission compared to the 2.5% to 3% charged by a traditional real estate agent charges.
» Creative Ways to Market an FSBO House: Find out 18 Creative Ways to Market a House For Sale By Owner Homes.
How to List on MLS via Houzeo.com in Tennessee?
List your home on MLS via Houzeo.com in 4 simple steps!
- Start Your FREE Listing: On your browser, go to Houzeo.com and click on “Start Free Listing” at the top right corner.
- Add Information About the Property & Photos: Register, and on your Houzeo dashboard click “Sell a Property“. Provide your property information, select a buyer agent commission, and upload photos.
- Choose a Listing Plan: Houzeo offers 4 MLS listing packages. We recommend the GOLD package as it will give you access to all of Houzeo’s technologically advanced features, like listing management, scheduling showings, and offer and lead management.
- Complete the Listing Documents: Listing docs will be automatically assigned to you based on your listing agent, property type, and local MLS. Completing the listing paperwork will take about 20 to 30 minutes.
If everything is in order, your listing will be live on your local MLS within 24-48 hours!
Level up Your Listing Game with Houzeo!
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Final Word
Listing in the MLS in Tennessee is a great way to boost the sale of your property. However, it can be expensive as access to MLS is restricted to real estate agents.
Even if you are new to selling, listing on MLS for sale by owner with a Flat Fee MLS broker like Houzeo can gain you profit.
» Houzeo Reviews: Check out what FSBO sellers have to say about listing with Houzeo.com
Frequently Asked Questions about Listing on MLS
1. Is Flat Fee MLS legal in Tennessee?
Flat Fee MLS is legal all over the United States. In fact, the US Department of Justice just updated their bulletin highlighting the benefits of Flat Fee MLS for For Sale By Owner home sellers.
2. Are Flat Fee Realtors good in Tennessee?
Some home sellers assume that since flat-fee realtors are working for lower fees they might not provide you with good services but there are thousands of home sellers who’ve already tried these flat-fee realtors and they have saved thousands of dollar with the best services!
3. Can I request to add open houses easily?
Our IntelliList Listing Management system makes requesting open houses to be added a breeze!
4. How much money can I actually save?
You can save up to 100% of the real estate commissions! With the Flat Fee MLS listing on Houzeo, you save the 3% listing agent commission. You’re obligated to pay the buyer’s agent the commission you offered if they’re represented by an agent, but if you procure a buyer with no agent involved, you can save even that!
» Houzeo Hidden Fees: Read further to know how much more you can save!
5. How to sell your house in 2024?
If you want to sell your home in 2024, you must follow these tips:
1. List on MLS.
2. Offer a competitive buyer's agent commission.
3. Set a competitive pricing for your house.
4. Use professional photography.
» List on America’s #1 FSBO Site and save thousands of commission.
6. Do I need to sign a contract to list my home in Tennessee?
Yes, but these contracts for Flat Fee MLS listings are generally “entry-only”. That means they’re limited to the agent entering your listing into the MLS. And they can be canceled/terminated anytime with no penalty!
7. Can you list rentals on the MLS in Tennessee?
Yes, you can list rentals on the MLS. Listing rentals on the MLS can boost your visibility and give you a competitive edge. Accordingly, you can close the rental transaction faster.
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