What is Houzeo?
Houzeo is a flat-fee MLS (Multiple Listing Service) listing platform designed to empower homeowners to sell their properties without the need for a traditional real estate agent. Headquartered in New York City, Houzeo operates nationwide, offering a streamlined and cost-effective way to list and sell homes.
Key Features and Functionality
MLS Listing
Houzeo allows homeowners to list their properties on the local MLS for a flat fee, significantly reducing the typical 2.5% to 3% commission charged by listing agents. This listing is then syndicated to popular real estate websites such as Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, and Redfin, enhancing the visibility of the property.
Service Packages
Houzeo offers several service packages tailored to different needs and budgets:
- Bronze: Starting at $299, this package includes a six-month MLS listing, 24 listing images, and unlimited listing changes.
- Silver: Priced from $349, it includes everything in the Bronze package plus maximum photos, access to the Houzeo mobile app, and seller disclosures.
- Gold: Starting at $429, this package adds features like access to Houzeo Offers, a personal concierge, and assistance from a licensed broker for contract review and pricing guidance.
- Platinum: At $1,200, this premium package offers full coverage, including customized yard signage and comprehensive broker support.
Online Tools and Dashboard
Houzeo provides a user-friendly online dashboard with several proprietary tools:
- IntelliList Listing Management System: Helps homeowners list their properties efficiently by collecting property details and auto-filling some sections. It also allows for easy listing changes and provides necessary documents for the MLS.
- Houzeo Offers: Enables sellers to evaluate buyer offers, make counter-offers, request ‘highest and best’ offers, and manage the offer process from the dashboard.
- Houzeo Showings: Allows sellers to manage showing requests from buyers and their agents, including scheduling and ID verification for potential buyers.
Additional Services
- Transaction Management: Houzeo’s DigiTransact service acts as a centralized hub for managing transactions, including creating activities, setting alerts, and managing transaction documents.
- Closing Costs Calculator: A free tool that helps both sellers and buyers estimate closing costs using various data points.
- Licensed Broker Services: Depending on the package, sellers can get assistance from a licensed broker for tasks such as house pricing, contract reviews, offer negotiations, and closing document reviews.
Customer Support and Visibility
Houzeo offers comprehensive customer support, available six days a week, through call, chat, and email. The platform ensures great exposure for listings, making them visible on multiple real estate websites, thereby reaching a wider audience.
In summary, Houzeo is a robust platform that simplifies the home-selling process by providing a flat-fee MLS listing service, intuitive online tools, and various levels of support, all aimed at saving homeowners money and time while maximizing the visibility of their properties.