Is Flat Fee MLS Legal in the U.S.?

Yes, flat fee MLS listings are fully legal and recognized by state real estate commissions and MLS boards across the U.S. — as long as they’re offered through a licensed real estate broker.

✅ Flat Fee MLS Is Legal — and Protected by Law

Flat fee MLS listing services are completely legal in all 50 states. In fact, the U.S. Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission have supported consumers’ right to choose limited-service real estate models, including flat fee listings.

All MLS entries must be submitted by a licensed real estate broker. When you list with Brokerless, your property is placed on the MLS by a licensed partner broker in your state.

📜 Legal Backing: FTC & State Real Estate Laws

  • The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) encourages competition in real estate, including flat fee MLS models
  • Flat fee MLS is legal in all 50 states when offered through a licensed real estate broker
  • State real estate commissions regulate but allow limited-service and flat fee broker options

These models help FSBO sellers save on commission while maintaining legal compliance and MLS access.

🛡️ Are There Any Legal Risks?

No — there are no legal risks to using a flat fee MLS listing service like Brokerless as long as:

  • You work with a licensed real estate broker
  • You comply with local MLS rules on listing content and disclosures

Brokerless ensures all listings are compliant with the MLS requirements in your local area.

🔍 Why Choose Brokerless?

Brokerless has been helping FSBO sellers list on the MLS since 2006. We offer transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and local MLS coverage across the U.S.

📌 Summary

Flat fee MLS is not only legal — it’s a consumer-friendly alternative to full-service real estate that promotes choice, competition, and savings. All listings must go through a licensed broker, and Brokerless makes that easy.

Explore our flat fee MLS services to get started.