Selling a home is one of the most important financial decisions you’ll make—and how you choose to list it can dramatically affect your bottom line. If you're a homeowner in Arizona, you're likely weighing two options: hiring a traditional real estate agent or using a flat fee MLS service.
Both paths offer unique advantages and drawbacks. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to make the best decision for your home sale.
???? What’s the Difference?
✅ Flat Fee MLS Listing
Definition: A flat fee MLS service allows you to pay a one-time, upfront fee (typically $149–$500) to have your property listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS)—the same database used by real estate agents.
DIY Approach: You retain control over pricing, marketing, negotiations, and paperwork.
Agent Commission: You only pay a buyer’s agent commission—if you choose to.
✅ Traditional Real Estate Agent
Definition: A licensed professional who manages the entire sales process for a commission, typically 5%–6% of the sale price, split between listing and buyer agents.
Full-Service: Includes pricing strategy, staging advice, showings, negotiations, and closing support.
Agent Commission: You pay both the listing agent (2.5%–3%) and buyer’s agent (2.5%–3%).
???? Cost Comparison: Who Saves You More?
Scenario Flat Fee MLS Traditional Agent
Upfront Fee $149–$500 $0
Commission on $400K ~$0 (unless buyer agent fee) $20,000–$24,000
Total Cost $149–$500 + optional buyer agent fee $20,000–$24,000
Verdict: Flat fee MLS can save you thousands, especially in higher-priced markets like Phoenix, Scottsdale, or Chandler.
⚙️ What You Handle as a Seller
Task Flat Fee MLS Traditional Agent
MLS Listing ✔️ (with broker support) ✔️
Pricing Strategy You do it Agent advises
Professional Photography Optional add-on Often included
Showings & Scheduling You handle it Agent manages
Negotiation You or your attorney Agent negotiates
Contract & Paperwork You or legal help Agent prepares/reviews
???? Changes in 2024: Buyer Agent Commission Reform
In 2024, national rules changed how buyer agent commissions are handled:
MLS platforms no longer allow seller-paid commissions to be advertised.
Buyers now sign written agreements with their agents and are often responsible for agent fees unless otherwise negotiated.
Sellers can still offer compensation, but it must be discussed off-platform.
Implication for Sellers: Flat Fee MLS You now have more flexibility—and negotiating power—over whether or how much to contribute to a buyer’s agent fee.
???? When to Use Each Option
Flat Fee MLS Is Best If:
You’re comfortable handling showings, negotiations, and paperwork
You want to save on commissions
You have some real estate experience or legal support
Traditional Agent Is Best If:
You’re unfamiliar with real estate transactions
You need help pricing, staging, or negotiating
You prefer a hands-off approach
???? Final Thoughts
Choosing between a flat fee MLS and a traditional agent in Arizona comes down to how involved you want to be and how much you want to save.
With a flat fee MLS, you can list your home on the same professional platform agents use while keeping more money in your pocket.
With a traditional agent, you pay more, but gain hands-on support throughout the process.
Smart sellers often use a hybrid approach—starting with flat fee MLS and hiring experts (like a real estate attorney or transaction coordinator) only when needed. Regardless of your path, understanding the pros and cons of each option puts you in control of your sale—and your profit.