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
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.
- 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 Price | Houzeo Silver | Houzeo Gold | Houzeo Platinum | Local 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 |
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.