The MLS is not one system. Rather, it is a number of databases across the country. Most of them are specific to a region or area, though a few are nationwide. This type of networking has a rich history, going back to the 19th century when brokers would meet in person to trade information on properties. [2] X Trustworthy Source United States Department of Justice Official website of the U. S. Department of Justice Go to source
Traditionally, for sale by owner (FSBO) homes were not listed on MLS systems. [4] X Trustworthy Source United States Department of Justice Official website of the U. S. Department of Justice Go to source However, you can negotiate with a Realtor to have them list your home on the MLS for a flat fee. You will still need to pay the selling broker a commission that is separate from the listing fee. You may still pay a commission to the broker or a cooperating broker if he or she finds you a buyer. However, if you find your own buyer, you may not pay them a commission, depending on the terms of your contract. [5] X Trustworthy Source United States Department of Justice Official website of the U. S. Department of Justice Go to source If you want to avoid paying the commission, it must be written into your contract that you will not pay a commission if you find your own buyer. Be prepared to prove that you found your buyer without help from the Realtor, including their advertisements for the property. For example, if someone sees the Realtor’s sign in your yard and asks you about the property, then the Realtor is still responsible for finding that buyer. If you prefer not to pay someone, you do have a few options. You can list your house for sale on websites such as Craigslist and Zillow. [6] X Research source You can also try advertising in your local paper and place your own “For Sale By Owner” sign in front of your house. Consider reading how to use a flat fee multiple listing service when selling by owner for more tips.
Advertising is usually one benefit you receive. You get the listing and other online advertisements. In addition, you also usually get yard signs and a lock-box for when Realtors want to show your house. [8] X Trustworthy Source United States Department of Justice Official website of the U. S. Department of Justice Go to source Later, you may want to purchase additional services. For instance, you may at first think you’ll be able to handle the negotiations and the contract. However, if you find you can’t, many brokerage services will provide additional help for an added fee. If you feel like you may want to add services later, make sure you can do that with the company you choose. [9] X Trustworthy Source United States Department of Justice Official website of the U. S. Department of Justice Go to source
Try to make your listing stand out as much as possible. Your first goal is to get them to click on your listing for more information. [11] X Research source Try using capital letters, and leave your reader curious. For instance, you could say, “You WON’T BELIEVE what’s behind this property. " Just make sure your listing follows through with what you promise. [12] X Research source
The reason is the way buyers search for properties; they use price ranges. So if a home is listed at $99,999, buyers who search from zero to a $100,000 will see it. [17] X Research source However, if a buyer searches from $100,000 to $200,000, he won’t see your property. Listing it at $100,000 means both sets of buyers will see it. [18] X Research source
Usually your Realtor will take the photos of your home, but you can supply your own photos if you’d prefer. Contact your Realtor to ask the best way to provide the photos to them, such as through email or a shared drive.
