Wayber
Back to Blog

Houzeo Alternative – Keep More of Your Home Sale Profit

Houzeo Alternative – Keep More of Your Home Sale Profit

Compare Houzeo's percentage-based MLS packages with Washington-focused flat-fee MLS services like Wayber. Learn costs, caveats, and who benefits most from each.

Houzeo alternativeflat fee MLS comparisonWashington MLS servicesreal estate feesMLS providers

Houzeo Alternative – Keep More of Your Home Sale Profit

What Houzeo Offers

Houzeo lists homes on MLS for a flat fee + percentage at closing. Packages:

  • Silver → $249 + 0.5% closing. Includes MLS syndication, 6-month listing, 24 photos, unlimited open houses.
  • Gold → $299 + 1% closing. Adds max MLS photos, broker assistance, forms, pricing help, contract review, and Offers Platform.
  1. Platinum → $349 + 1.25% closing. Adds negotiation support, inspection/appraisal review, closing doc review, concierge service, and 12-month listing.

💡 Tech-driven platform with online dashboards, but not a licensed brokerage—relies on external agents.

Caveats with Houzeo

  • Not a licensed broker → works through outside agents (quality varies).
  • “Unlimited changes” capped at 10 edits.
  • Extra charges for features like call forwarding/lead management.
  • MLS coverage inconsistent across regions.
  • Percentage closing fees = expensive at higher values.

Why a WA-Focused Alternative Is Better

Washington’s real estate = unique MLS coverage + local rules.

Wayber:

  • Direct NWMLS listing (no middleman).
  • Flat upfront fee (≈ $79), no % closing fees.
  • WA-specific forms (Form 17, Agency Law Pamphlet).
  • Local staff familiar with WA customs & negotiation.
  • Faster updates + tailored support.

👉 Predictable, transparent, and state-compliant.

Cost Comparison

Home PriceHouzeo SilverHouzeo GoldHouzeo PlatinumLocal Flat-Fee
$300,000$1,749$3,299$4,099$79
$500,000$2,749$5,299$6,599$79
$1,000,000$5,249$10,299$12,849$79
⚠️ Houzeo fees scale with price → thousands lost. ✅ Wayber = fixed cost regardless of value.

Who Should Choose Houzeo

  • Sellers in states w/ limited local flat-fee options.
  • Need national reach + tech dashboard.
  • Lower-priced homes (fees less burdensome).
  • Want full-service-like broker support (Gold/Platinum).

Who Benefits Most from Wayber

  • WA sellers wanting NWMLS exposure.
  • High-value homes → bigger savings.
  • DIY sellers comfortable w/ showings & negotiations.
  • Investors listing multiple properties.

Legal Requirements in WA

  • Form 17 Seller Disclosure (mandatory).
  • Purchase & Sale Agreement (valid).
  • Agency Law Pamphlet.
  • Federal/state fair housing compliance.
  • Escrow/title closing required.

👉 Wayber provides these forms + guidance.

Negotiation Tips

  • Respond quickly to offers.
  • Stay objective (focus on price/terms, not personalities).
  • Define bottom line before listing.
  • Use non-price concessions (closing costs, dates) to seal deals.
  • Consult an attorney hourly if needed → still cheaper than % fees.

Checklist: Houzeo vs Wayber

  • What’s my budget? (flat vs %).
  • How much support do I need?
  • Do I need national reach?
  • Will I change my listing often? (Houzeo caps edits).
  • Do I want direct buyer leads? (Houzeo may upsell).

Related Resources

Conclusion

Houzeo = well-known, tech-friendly, but adds closing fees, edit caps, and broker variability.

Wayber = WA-focused, flat fee, local expertise, no surprises.

👉 For WA sellers wanting to keep more equity, Wayber is the stronger alternative.