Yes, flat fee MLS listing is completely legitimate in Dallas, Texas. It allows homeowners to list their property on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS)—the same database used by REALTORS®—for a flat fee, avoiding the traditional 6% commission. In Texas, these services must be provided by a licensed real estate broker in accordance with the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) guidelines.

Flat fee MLS listings give sellers access to major real estate platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, etc., increasing visibility while retaining control of the sale. Always verify that the listing broker is licensed using the TREC License Holder Search Tool.

Yes, REALTORS® in Dallas do pay for MLS listings as part of their membership with local real estate associations and National Association of Realtors (NAR). To access the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, agents typically join the MetroTex Association of REALTORS®, which requires annual dues and MLS subscription fees. These costs cover access to the MLS database, marketing tools, forms, and compliance support.

While the MLS itself doesn’t charge per listing, agents must maintain an active membership and pay regular fees to list properties on behalf of clients. You can verify a Dallas REALTOR®'s credentials through the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) License Lookup.

A flat fee listing in Dallas refers to a real estate service where a homeowner pays a fixed amount to have their property listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). At Flat Fee By You, we offer this service to empower homeowners to sell their property while saving significantly on commission fees. With our flat fee listing, you get the same MLS exposure and marketing benefits that traditional full-service agents provide, but at a fraction of the cost.

MLS (Multiple Listing Service) access in Dallas can be pricey due to several factors. The MLS is a comprehensive database providing detailed information about properties for sale, which is essential for real estate agents to perform their duties effectively. The cost reflects the substantial investment required to maintain this vast, up-to-date resource. Fees cover technology infrastructure, continuous data updates, administrative support, and compliance with industry standards. For real estate businesses like Flat Fee By You, access to MLS is crucial as it ensures that clients benefit from accurate and timely property information, enabling them to make informed decisions. By offering flat fee services, we aim to make this invaluable resource available to you without the traditional high costs associated with 6% real estate commissions.

Yes, an MLS (Multiple Listing Service) listing is definitely worth it in Dallas, especially when you use Flat Fee By You. As a premier real estate agency, Flat Fee By You offers a unique service that allows you to list your property on the MLS for a flat fee, rather than the traditional, often expensive, real estate commissions. This means you gain the extensive reach and exposure of the MLS, significantly increasing the visibility of your property to potential buyers and real estate agents. Dallas is a competitive real estate market where properties listed on the MLS benefit from being seen by numerous buyers actively searching for homes. With an MLS listing through Flat Fee By You, your property will appear on popular real estate websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, etc., maximizing your chances of a quicker sale.

By choosing Flat Fee By You, you leverage professional real estate services that include expert advice and market analysis, ensuring that your MLS listing is both appealing and competitive. This comprehensive approach not only enhances your property's market presence but also provides you with excellent value for your investment.

In summary, an MLS listing through Flat Fee By You is a cost-effective and strategic way to sell your property in the Dallas real estate market, giving you the broader audience necessary to achieve a successful sale, ultimately saving you money and time.

Yes, commercial REALTORS® in Dallas do use the MLS, but they also rely heavily on specialized platforms tailored to commercial real estate. The primary MLS in the Dallas-Fort Worth area is North Texas Real Estate Information Systems (NTREIS), which allows the listing of certain commercial properties—particularly those that may also qualify for residential or mixed-use purposes.

However, not all commercial properties are eligible or suitable for MLS listing. Properties that cannot be used for residential purposes or fall under specialized commercial zoning may be excluded or limited by MLS rules.

To effectively market such properties, commercial REALTORS® often turn to Commercial Information Exchanges (CIEs). CIEs are platforms specifically built for commercial real estate and may include property data for sale or lease, recent commercial transactions, and other market insights. Unlike MLS, CIEs may not require exclusive listing agreements and typically do not publish agent commission splits.

By using MLS, we help our clients navigate the Dallas commercial real estate market with confidence and clarity.

In Dallas, direct access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is restricted to licensed real estate professionals. This means that individual homeowners cannot list properties on the MLS without working through a licensed broker. However, services like Flat Fee By YOU provide a solution by offering MLS listing packages through their licensed Texas broker, allowing sellers to list their homes on the MLS for a flat fee, thereby avoiding the traditional 6% commission.

Flat Fee By YOU's services include listing your property on the MLS, which syndicates to major real estate websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Trulia, ensuring maximum exposure. This approach empowers sellers to manage their own listings while saving on commission fees.

It's important to note that while Flat Fee By YOU facilitates MLS listings, they do so through their licensed broker, adhering to the regulations that restrict MLS access to licensed professionals.

For further details on MLS access regulations in Texas, you can refer to Real Estate Skills.

Yes, the MetroTex MLS, which operates under NTREIS (North Texas Real Estate Information Systems), does show sold prices—but access to this data is typically limited to licensed real estate professionals who are members of the MLS. These professionals use sold price data for pricing strategies, market analysis, and comparative market reports (CMAs).

For the general public, sold price visibility may be limited on third-party websites like Zillow or Realtor.com due to privacy rules or local MLS data-sharing agreements. However, if you're working with our licensed REALTOR® through our flat fee MLS service, you can gain access to these insights to make more informed decisions.

Sold data provided by NTREIS is widely regarded as the most accurate and up-to-date in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, covering thousands of residential and commercial transactions each month.

No, the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is not free for agents in Dallas. Accessing the MLS requires membership in a local real estate board or association, which typically comes with associated fees. At Flat Fee By You, we offer a unique solution to this common challenge. By utilizing our flat-fee listing service, you can get your property listed on the MLS without the need for a 6% agent. This not only saves you money but also provides the essential MLS exposure needed to effectively market your property in the Dallas real estate market. With our professional and affordable services, you can navigate the MLS listing process with ease and confidence.

Yes, Broker Direct MLS services, such as ours, are legitimate in Dallas, provided they are operated by a licensed Texas real estate broker who adheres to the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) rules and regulations.

Under TREC Rule §535.2, brokers are required to provide full representation to their clients. This means that any broker listing a property on the MLS must offer comprehensive services, including:

• Accepting and presenting offers and counteroffers to the client.

• Assisting the client in developing, communicating, and presenting offers and counteroffers.

• Answering the client's questions relating to offers, counteroffers, and notices.

These obligations ensure that brokers cannot offer "non-representation" or "semi-representation" services when listing properties on the MLS.

Therefore, any service advertising as a "Broker Direct MLS" must comply with these requirements to be considered legitimate.

For more detailed information on broker responsibilities, you can refer to the TREC Rules.

No, the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) is not the same as a realtor. The MLS is a comprehensive database used by real estate professionals to share property listings and details, ensuring maximum exposure and accessibility. Realtors, on the other hand, are licensed real estate professionals who are members of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). At Flat Fee By You, we utilize the power of the MLS to market your property effectively, through our licensed Broker. This combination of MLS visibility and flat fee services maximizes your property's exposure and sale potential without the hefty price tag.

HomeRise is a national flat-fee MLS marketing website that connects home sellers with third-party partner brokerages—often outside Texas—to list properties on the MLS. While they promote a simplified flat-fee process, Texas home sellers should be aware of several important risks and regulatory concerns when considering their service.

⚠️ 1. You are not working directly with HomeRise

HomeRise is not the broker listing your home, they are simply a marketing website. They route your order to an outside partner brokerage, which is located in another state. This outsourcing model can lead to slower response times, miscommunication, and lack of direct accountability if problems arise during your sale.

⚠️ 2. Lead control and communication may be restricted

Sellers using HomeRise often report that they have limited or no control over buyer inquiries. Because listings are handled by a third-party broker, communication must be routed through licensees, and sellers typically cannot speak directly to unrepresented buyers, limiting your flexibility and control.

⚠️ 3. Not a Texas-based service

If you're selling in Texas, it's important to work with a broker who knows Texas contracts, MLS systems, and state law. HomeRise often assigns listings to out-of-state brokers who may not be familiar with local compliance requirements, potentially exposing sellers to legal or procedural issues.

⚠️ 4. Risk of non-compliance with TREC Rule §535.2

According to the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC), any broker listing a property on the MLS must provide full representation to the seller—not just basic or “MLS-only” services. Some HomeRise partner brokerages may offer limited support models that do not satisfy this requirement, putting sellers at risk of non-compliant representation.

⚠️ 5. Actual costs may exceed advertised flat fee

While HomeRise advertises a $95 flat-fee MLS listing, their full-service option includes a 1% commission at closing. This means that sellers opting for comprehensive services may end up paying more than initially anticipated, reducing the overall savings compared to other flat-fee models.

✅ Why Flat Fee By YOU is the Better Choice in Dallas:

• We are a TREC-licensed Texas brokerage

• Your listing is handled directly by our Texas-based team

• We offer MLS-compliant representation, not outsourced services

• We help you save thousands in commission without sacrificing legal compliance or support

Flat Fee By YOU combines local expertise with a flat-fee model designed specifically for Texas sellers—no middlemen, no hidden hand-offs, and no shortcuts.

Beycome is a national flat-fee MLS listing service headquartered in South Miami, Florida. They offer tiered packages starting at $99, aiming to help homeowners sell their properties without traditional agent commissions. However, Texas sellers should be aware of several important factors before choosing Beycome:

⚠️ 1. Additional Fees Beyond the Advertised Flat Fee

While Beycome advertises a $99 flat-fee MLS listing, their Concierge Service includes an additional 1% commission at closing, subject to a minimum of $1,599. This means that sellers opting for comprehensive services may end up paying more than initially anticipated, reducing the overall savings compared to other flat-fee models.

⚠️ 2. Potential for Listings on Non-Local MLS Platforms

Some customers have reported that their properties were listed on MyStateMLS, a nationwide MLS, instead of their local MLS. This can lead to reduced visibility among local buyers and agents, potentially impacting the sale process. See their Better Business Bureau Complaints here.

⚠️ 3. Limited Communication with Assigned Brokers

Beycome operates primarily through digital platforms, which may result in limited direct communication with the assigned listing agent or broker. For sellers who prefer prompt and consistent communication, this model might not provide the level of service required.

⚠️ 4. Geographic Limitations

Beycome's services are available in select states, including Texas. However, their coverage may not extend to all regions within the state, potentially limiting their effectiveness for certain sellers.

✅ Why Choose Flat Fee By YOU Instead

• Texas-Based Expertise: As a TREC-licensed brokerage, we have in-depth knowledge of Texas real estate rules and MLS systems.

• You Stay With Us—No Outsourcing: Unlike national platforms, we don’t market your listing out or assign it to third-party agents. Your listing stays within Flat Fee By YOU, under the supervision of our in-house Texas-licensed broker.

• Personalized Support: Our team provides dedicated assistance throughout the selling process, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.

• Local MLS Listings: Your property will be listed on the appropriate local Dallas MLS, maximizing visibility among potential buyers and agents.

Flat Fee By YOU combines local expertise with a transparent, flat-fee model designed specifically for Texas sellers—no middlemen, no hidden hand-offs, and no shortcuts.

Houzeo is a national flat-fee MLS listing platform headquartered in New York. They advertise packages starting at $199, offering a digital way to sell your home without paying full agent commissions. However, Texas sellers should be aware of several key issues before listing with Houzeo:

⚠️ 1. Hidden Fees Beyond the Advertised Flat Fee

While Houzeo promotes a $199 flat-fee MLS listing, many of their packages come with percentage-based fees at closing, including:

• Silver Package: $199 + 0.5% commission at closing

• Gold Package: $249 + 1% commission

• Platinum Package: $299 + 1.25% commission

These back-end fees can significantly cut into your net proceeds—something many sellers don’t anticipate upfront.

⚠️ 2. Outsourced Brokers and Communication Delays

Houzeo partners with third-party brokers to list homes on the MLS. That means your listing may be handed off to a broker you've never spoken to, and who may be unfamiliar with Texas markets. Multiple reviews cite delayed response times and difficulties making updates to listings, especially once the home goes live.

⚠️ 3. Difficulties Reaching Assigned Brokers

Numerous customer reviews report that it's hard to get in touch with the actual listing broker. Sellers have faced frustrations during negotiations, document changes, or closing coordination because of the platform’s lack of consistent direct contact with licensed professionals.

✅ Why Choose Flat Fee By YOU Instead

• Texas-Based and TREC-Licensed: Your listing is managed by a local Texas broker who knows the laws, contracts, and MLS systems statewide.

• You Stay With Us—No Outsourcing: Unlike national platforms, we don’t market your listing out or assign it to third-party agents. Your listing stays within Flat Fee By YOU, under the supervision of our in-house Texas-licensed broker.

• Responsive Support: You can always reach a real broker by phone. We provide timely, personalized assistance, not automated scripts or slow support queues.

• Local MLS Listings: We list your home on the correct MLS in your region (MetroTex MLS), ensuring maximum visibility among local buyers and agents.

Flat Fee By YOU gives you all the exposure of the MLS with none of the runaround. We don’t pass your listing to strangers—you work with us, and only us.

At Flat Fee By You, we offer a unique flat fee model designed to provide homeowners in Dallas with a cost-effective and transparent alternative to traditional real estate commission structures.

Here's how it works:

1. Initial Consultation: We start with a detailed consultation to understand your needs and to provide an overview of our services. Feel free to call our Broker at 972-674-9914.

2. Flat Fee: You choose a package that works for you, ranging from $45 to $295 depending on your needs, which covers our listing services.

3. MLS Listing and Marketing: Your property will be listed on the MetroTex Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and other major real estate platforms. We also provide professional photography as part of our premium package.

4. Support and Negotiations: Our experienced real estate broker will handle showings, negotiations, and offer evaluations, guiding you through each step of the selling process.

5. Transaction Management: We manage all the documentation and compliance requirements to ensure a smooth closing process.

By choosing Flat Fee By You, homeowners in Dallas can save thousands of dollars on commission fees while receiving professional, full-service support to sell their homes effectively and efficiently.

Brokerless is a national flat-fee MLS listing service that offers homeowners the ability to list their properties on the MLS without paying traditional listing agent commissions. While this model can be appealing for cost-conscious sellers, it's important to understand how Brokerless operates, especially in the Texas real estate market.

⚠️ 1. Out-of-State Operations

Brokerless is headquartered in Florida and operates by partnering with a network of brokers across various states, including Texas. This means your listing may be managed by a broker who is not based in Texas, potentially leading to a lack of familiarity with local market nuances and regulations.

⚠️ 2. Limited Direct Communication

Customers have reported challenges in communicating directly with their assigned brokers. Since Brokerless acts as an intermediary, there may be delays or difficulties in getting timely responses to inquiries or making updates to your listing.

⚠️ 3. Compliance with Texas Real Estate Regulations

In Texas, the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) requires that any broker listing a property on the MLS must provide full representation to the seller. Given Brokerless's model of partnering with various brokers, it's crucial to ensure that the assigned broker complies with TREC regulations to avoid potential legal complications.

✅ Why Choose Flat Fee By YOU Instead

• Texas-Based Expertise: As a TREC-licensed brokerage, we have in-depth knowledge of Texas real estate laws and MLS systems.

• Personalized Support: Our team provides dedicated assistance throughout the selling process, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.

• Local MLS Listings: Your property will be listed on the appropriate local MLS, MetroTex MLS, maximizing visibility among potential buyers and agents.

• Direct Broker Communication: Unlike national platforms, your listing stays within Flat Fee By YOU, under the supervision of our in-house Texas-licensed broker, ensuring consistent and direct communication.

Flat Fee By YOU combines local expertise with a transparent, flat-fee model designed specifically for Texas sellers—no middlemen, no hidden hand-offs, and no shortcuts.

FSBO.com markets itself as a “For Sale By Owner” listing platform, offering homeowners the ability to advertise their properties without hiring a traditional listing agent. However, FSBO.com also sells flat-fee MLS packages that involve listing your property on the MLS through a third-party licensed broker—this raises serious concerns for Texas sellers.

⚠️ 1. “FSBO” and MLS Are Incompatible by Definition

The term FSBO (For Sale By Owner) means that a homeowner is not using a licensed real estate agent or broker. However, once a property is listed on the MLS, it must be done through a licensed broker, and that broker is legally obligated to represent the seller under Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) rules.

By offering “FSBO” listings on the MLS, FSBO.com creates a misleading hybrid that can confuse both sellers and buyers. To a buyer or buyer’s agent, an MLS listing implies that a licensed agent is representing the seller—and that all negotiations, disclosures, and contracts must comply with REALTOR® standards and TREC regulations.

This confusion could lead to:

• Non-compliance with Texas law

• Fraud risk if a buyer is misled into thinking a licensed agent is not involved

• Compromised trust between parties due to unclear representation

⚠️ 2. “Do It Yourself. Do It FSBO.” – A Misleading Slogan in Texas

FSBO.com’s slogan, “Do it yourself. Do it FSBO.”, implies that sellers can list their property on the MLS without using a broker. In Texas, this is flatly non-compliant with TREC regulations. Only licensed real estate brokers may list properties on the MLS. Sellers cannot list a property themselves on any MLS in Texas.

In fact, TREC Rule §535.2 mandates that any broker who places a property on the MLS must provide full representation, including helping the client review offers, handle negotiations, and understand contract documents. A seller who lists through a platform like FSBO.com may think they’re handling everything independently—but they’re actually under the legal supervision of a licensed broker, whether they realize it or not.

This contradiction could:

• Mislead the seller into believing they are unrepresented

• Violate Texas law by failing to provide full-service brokerage

• Confuse buyers who think they are dealing with an unrepresented seller

⚠️ 3. Hidden Fees in Texas Markets

While FSBO.com advertises a $399.95 flat fee, in certain Texas regions (such as Waco, Amarillo, and Texarkana), an additional 0.25% commission is collected at closing by the listing broker. This contradicts the “by owner” promise and adds unexpected costs. Source: FSBO.com Texas Packages

⚠️ 4. Outsourced Brokers, Delayed Support

FSBO.com contracts with third-party brokers to list your property. As a result, seller experiences vary widely, with some reporting difficulty reaching their assigned broker or making time-sensitive listing changes.

✅ Why Choose Flat Fee By YOU Instead

• We’re a TREC-Licensed Texas Brokerage: You are fully represented by a local broker who knows Texas MLS rules and contract law—no ambiguity or risk of non-compliance.

• We Don’t Mislead You With “FSBO” Language: We clearly explain that MLS access requires broker involvement—and we follow the rules, not marketing gimmicks.

• We Don’t Mix FSBO with MLS: Our listings are compliant and fully brokered. We don’t mislead buyers or sellers with the false promise of “For Sale By Owner” while using agent-governed platforms.

• We Never Market Out Your Listing: Your property stays within Flat Fee By YOU, under the direct supervision of our Texas-licensed broker.

• You Can Reach Us by Phone: You’ll always have direct access to our in-house team—no call centers, no outsourcing.

Flat Fee By YOU gives you MLS exposure and full MLS compliance, without confusing labels or misleading marketing. We’re not pretending you’re a “For Sale By Owner” while routing you through a broker—we’re doing it right, the first time.

While flat fee MLS listings in Dallas offer significant cost savings by eliminating the traditional 6% commissions, there are a few potential disadvantages sellers should consider before choosing this route with other companies:

1. Limited Service Unless Clearly Defined

Some flat fee listing companies only include basic MLS access—meaning you may be responsible for tasks like scheduling showings, negotiating offers, and managing paperwork. If the provider doesn't offer TREC-compliant full representation, your listing could violate Texas real estate regulations.

2. Misleading or Outsourced Services

Not all flat fee services are local. Many national platforms outsource your listing to third-party brokers, which can result in:

• Slow communication

• Unfamiliarity with Dallas MLS rules

• Hidden closing fees

Always verify whether your listing will be managed in-house by a Texas-licensed broker.

3. Lack of Communication and Responsiveness

A common complaint with national flat fee services is difficulty reaching the assigned broker or making listing updates. Sellers often experience long response times or are routed through automated platforms with no direct contact. This can delay time-sensitive negotiations and cause major frustration.

Avoid These Drawbacks with Flat Fee By YOU:

• Texas-based and TREC-compliant: Your listing is handled directly by a licensed Texas broker—no outsourcing.

• Full representation included: You stay compliant while still saving thousands.

• Responsive Broker Support: You can call us directly—no call centers or hidden reps.

Flat fee listings in Dallas can be a powerful tool—if done right. Choose a provider who understands Texas law, local MLS rules, and seller support requirements. Flat Fee By YOU was built to do just that.

The biggest benefit of a flat fee MLS listing in Dallas is that it allows home sellers to save thousands in real estate commissions while still gaining full exposure on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS)—the same database used by licensed REALTORS® to list and search properties.

Whether a flat fee is refundable depends on the company’s policy. In many cases, flat fee MLS services are non-refundable once you place the order—especially if the listing has already been submitted to the MLS. However, Flat Fee By YOU offers a more flexible refund policy.

Flat Fee By YOU Refund Policy:

If your listing has not yet been activated on the MLS, your flat fee is fully refundable. And importantly, we cannot activate any listing without your signed listing agreement, as required by MLS rules and TREC regulations in Texas.

So if you change your mind before signing, you’re entitled to a refund—no activation, no obligation.

What About Other Companies?

Some national flat fee services process your payment and immediately assign your listing to a third-party broker—often outside your local area—and their terms may explicitly state “no refunds” regardless of listing status. That’s why it’s important to read the fine print before committing.

Why Flat Fee By YOU is Different:

• Your listing stays with us—we don’t outsource to third-party brokers.

• Refunds are honored if you haven’t signed or activated your listing.

• We follow all Texas MLS and TREC compliance rules for your protection.

To avoid REALTOR® fees in Dallas, the most effective approach is to use a flat fee MLS listing service like Flat Fee By YOU. This lets you get the full exposure of the MLS—where most buyers search for homes—without paying a traditional 6% agent commission.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Use a Flat Fee MLS Listing Service

Instead of hiring a traditional listing agent, you pay a flat fee to have your property listed on the Dallas-area MLS (MetroTex MLS). This gives you the same visibility as listings from traditional agents, appearing on sites like:

• Zillow

• Realtor.com

• Redfin

With Flat Fee By YOU, your listing is handled by a TREC-licensed Texas broker, ensuring compliance with state and MLS rules.

2. Negotiate or Avoid Buyer Agent Commission

You are not required to offer a buyer’s agent commission, although most sellers in Dallas offer 2–3% to incentivize agents.

3. Sell FSBO (For Sale By Owner) — With Caution

While you can try selling your home completely off the MLS, this often limits exposure and results in a slower sale.

🚫 Avoid These Mistakes:

• Don’t list on MLS through out-of-state platforms that may charge hidden fees or reassign your listing.

• Avoid companies that advertise FSBO but actually place you under a broker without clarity—this can confuse buyers and violate compliance rules.

Flat Fee By YOU helps Dallas sellers keep more equity by eliminating unnecessary commission fees—without sacrificing exposure or compliance.

Yes, REALTOR® fees in Dallas—and throughout Texas—are typically paid from the home’s purchase price at closing. This means that the seller covers both the listing agent commission and the buyer’s agent commission using proceeds from the sale.

How It Works:

• When you sell your home, the agreed-upon sale price (e.g., $400,000) includes built-in commissions.

• At closing, the total REALTOR® commission—usually around 5–6%—is deducted from your proceeds.

  • For example, 3% to the listing agent and 3% to the buyer’s agent.

• The buyer does not pay the agents directly—you, the seller, do, using the funds from the final sale.

Want to Keep More of Your Proceeds?

You can avoid paying the full listing commission by using a flat fee MLS service like Flat Fee By YOU. Instead of paying 3% to a listing agent, you pay a flat fee to get listed on the MLS—cutting the 6% traditional commission in at least half.

Flat Fee By YOU Advantage:

• Save thousands by eliminating the 3% listing agent commission

• MLS exposure on sites like Zillow, Realtor.com, Redfin, and more

• Keep more of your equity at closing

Yes, REALTOR® fees come out of the purchase price—but with Flat Fee By YOU, you can reduce or eliminate listing-side commissions entirely. It's a smarter, more profitable way to sell in Dallas.

Most REALTORS® in Dallas (and nationwide) still charge a percentage-based commission—typically 5–6% of the home’s sale price—because the traditional model is not just profitable, it’s often the only way they can survive financially in the industry’s structure.

1. REALTOR® Commission Is Shared — Not Kept

When a seller agrees to a 6% commission, that total is usually split like this:

• 3% to the buyer’s agent

• 3% to the listing agent

But even that 3% is not kept in full by the agent.

Most agents are licensed under a sponsoring broker, and they are required to share their commission with that brokerage. Depending on the arrangement, the broker can take 20–50% or more of every commission check.

2. Agents Work Under Costly Brokerage Models

Many agents operate under multi-layered brokerage systems like Keller Williams, eXp Realty, or Realty One Group, which often promote revenue-sharing or team-based models. These structures are sometimes called "real estate MLMs" or pyramid-style brokerages, where agents:

• Split their commissions multiple ways

• Pay monthly desk, tech, and training fees

• Are encouraged to recruit more agents instead of focusing solely on sales

This setup means that agents are under heavy pressure to maximize every transaction just to stay afloat.

3. The Average Agent Closes Very Few Transactions

According to NAR (National Association of REALTORS®), the average REALTOR® closes only 10–12 transactions per year—many even fewer. That means:

• A $300,000 home sale with 3% commission = $9,000

• After broker splits and expenses, an agent might take home $3,000–$4,000

• If they only close one sale every few months, anything less than full commission is financially unsustainable

Flat fee models simply don’t fit this structure, which is why most agents won’t offer them.

✅ Why Flat Fee By YOU is Different

Flat Fee By YOU is not part of a recruiting-downline brokerage. We are:

• A Texas-based, TREC-licensed brokerage

• Focused solely on helping sellers list on the MLS

• Transparent, responsive, and affordable

• Built to help sellers keep their equity—not sustain a bloated commission pyramid

You get real MLS exposure, full MLS compliance, and broker representation—without paying 6% to list and close your home.