MLS FAQ

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• What is the MLS?

  The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is a local database that advertises properties for sale to licensed real estate agents. Each area has a distinct MLS that is utilized by local real estate agents and is only accessible to these agents. Once listed on your local MLS, your property may feed (depending on area) to several national real estate websites, such as Realtor.com. The exposure you receive on the MLS is tremendous! (Thousands of real estate agents through your local MLS and millions of potential buyers through the internet.)

• How does the Flat Fee MLS package work?

  Once you sign-up for the Flat Fee MLS package, FSBO.com gives the lead to MLSmart Realty, LLC, www.MLSmart.com, a licensed real estate broker in several states, but not all and FSBO.com has nothing to do with the MLS listing after that. MLSmart Realty, LLC will either handle the lead themselves or refer it out to a licensed real estate broker that is a member of your area MLS. Please make sure to ask the listing agent the name and coverage of the MLS they will list your property in. Often times there are different MLS’s that cover the same area. It is your responsibility to ensure this is the correct MLS for your property. Once the forms have been submitted back to the listing broker, the property is listed and assigned a MLS number, at that point there are no refunds. The listing broker will list your property on your local MLS for six months. Once listed in the MLS, you will be responsible for showings, additional marketing, open houses, negotiations, etc. The broker acts as your listing agent, but does not collect a commission (in most cases - you may verify by clicking on your state's MLS page). By default, their name and phone number will appear on your MLS listing as well as some real estate websites, such as Realtor.com. If a broker brings you a buyer and you accept an offer you will need to pay them a commission. All commission is negotiable, but the average is around 2-3% and will need to be stated up front upon entering the MLS. Once the MLS forms have been submitted back to the listing broker and your property has been listed in the MLS you are no longer considered a FSBO (For Sale By Owner) property and we are unable to offer refunds. (MLS & Realtor.com is not offered in all areas, please click here for coverage area & additional details.)

• Can I upgrade my current FSBO.com package to the Flat Fee MLS package?

  Yes, you may upgrade to the MLS package. FSBO.com does not keep any credit card information on file. For this reason, you will need to either upgrade online by logging in to your account and clicking on the "Upgrade Package" button or call FSBO.com at 800-690-5802 x2 M-F 9am-4pm EST with your listing ID#, and credit card number to upgrade instantly over the phone.

• Does the MLS Package include any supplies?

  No, the MLS package does not includes any supplies. However, your listing broker may provide a yard sign.  FSBO.com does offer Yard Signs, Virtual Tour, Brochures and more for seperate purchase in the FSBO Store once your MLS order has been submitted. Please check with the listing broker before ordering additional supplies as certain MLS's have rules regarding signage.

• May I add more photos or make changes to my MLS listing?

  Yes, you may add additional photos or make changes to your MLS listing.  Your listing agent will go over fees for this (if applicable) as well as any additional options/services they may offer.  Click here to see the options in your state.

• When will my MLS listing post on Realtor.com?

  In most areas, your MLS listing will feed through to Realtor.com within 3-5 business days after being active in the MLS. Realtor.com pulls limited information from the MLS and sometimes takes a few days to pull the photo. The listing agent has no control over how long it takes to feed through to Realtor.com.

• May I cancel my MLS listing early?

  Yes, you may cancel your MLS listing at anytime during the 6 month listing period, however the upfront listing fee is not refundable or prorated. Before entering into a written listing agreement with a licensed real estate broker, you should inquire about whether there are any additional fees charged for early cancellation.  Please note - Once the MLS forms have been submitted back to the listing agent, we are unable to offer refunds.

• I have ordered the MLS package, what is the next step to get listed on the MLS?

  We have referred your information to a licensed real estate broker who will place your property in the MLS. They will contact you via email or phone to get started on the required MLS forms (please make sure to check your email and your SPAM folder). Once these forms have been submitted back to the listing broker for entry into the MLS we are unable to offer refunds. The MLS package charge will come through as MLSmart Realty, LLC.

• How do I determine the percent commission I am willing to offer to a buyer’s broker?

  You will state the percent commission you are willing to offer to the buyer’s broker on the required MLS forms that come from the listing broker.  This commission will be on your MLS listing for all buyer’s agents to see.