Who Gets the 0.5% Closing Cost?
In the Gold Plan, the listing agent receives the 0.5% closing cost, which is calculated as 0.5% of the final selling price of your property. This fee compensates the listing agent for the additional services they provide compared to the more basic plans.
At Houzeo, we offer flat-fee MLS listings, meaning you pay a set upfront cost instead of a commission percentage. Here's what to expect with showings in the Gold Plan:
Virtual Assistance:
The listing agent provides valuable virtual support throughout your sale. The listing agent will guide you with contracts, offers, and overall selling strategy, but won't be physically present for showings.
Managing Showings Yourself:
Houzeo empowers you to manage showings independently through our online tool, Houzeo Showings. You can:
- Pre-qualify potential buyers.
- Schedule appointments.
- Communicate with buyers about showings.
- Provide access instructions.
Lockbox Option:
If you're unavailable during showings, consider a lockbox. This secure box allows pre-approved buyers or their agents to access your property at scheduled times.
Things to Remember:
- State and MLS Rules: Lockbox use might have limitations depending on your location. Check with Houzeo or your local MLS for details.
- Security: Choose a reputable lockbox brand and ensure proper installation. Take precautions to secure valuables during showings.
What Services Does the Listing Agent Provide?
While Houzeo operates as a flat-fee MLS listing company, the Gold Plan offers a higher level of listing agent involvement compared to the Bronze plan. The specific services may vary slightly by state, but here's a general idea:
- Extended Exposure: Showcase your property on the MLS, maximizing its visibility to potential buyers (standard MLS listing duration may vary by state).
- Maximum Exposure: Include the maximum number of photos allowed by your state's MLS to create a visually compelling listing that showcases your property's best features.
- Syndication Powerhouse: Reach a wider audience by syndicating your listing to major real estate websites like Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, and Redfin.
- Unlimited Tweaks: The Gold Plan allows you to make unlimited changes to your listing throughout the subscription period. This flexibility ensures your listing stays up-to-date and reflects any changes to your property or selling strategy.
- Open House Advantage: Host as many open houses as needed to attract potential buyers. There are no restrictions on the number of open houses you can conduct.
- Premium Yard Sign with a Twist: Houzeo offers premium yard signs for an additional $49. However, there's a unique perk! Snap a selfie with the yard sign and your house in the picture, send it to Houzeo, and get a full refund for the sign. (Note: Some states require listing agent signs, which are not included in the refund program.)
- Contract Review: A licensed broker will assist you with reviewing contracts to ensure everything is in order before closing.
- Contract to Close Support: You'll receive guidance from Houzeo throughout the selling process, from contract signing to closing.
- Offer Management: Houzeo can help you review and compare offers, formulate counteroffers, and even request "highest and best" offers from potential buyers.
- Potential for Call Forwarding: Depending on your state's MLS rules and your assigned listing agent's capabilities, incoming calls from buyers mentioning your property address may be forwarded to your phone, allowing you to connect with interested parties directly.
- Seamless Showings: Houzeo IntelliList empowers you to manage showings online. Schedule appointments, communicate with potential buyers, and gain valuable insights, all through a convenient platform.
- Mobile Management: The Houzeo Mobile App puts control at your fingertips. Manage your listing, accept or decline showing requests, compare offers, counter offers, and even search for new homes (if you're looking to buy!).
- Expert Assistance: A licensed broker will assist you with contract review, ensuring all documents are in order before closing. Houzeo also provides access to real estate forms to streamline the paperwork process.
- Pricing Power: In some states, Houzeo offers pricing assistance to help you determine the most competitive listing price to attract buyers and maximize your profit potential. (Availability may vary by state.)
- Contract to Close Support: Houzeo guides you through the journey from contract signing to closing. You'll receive expert consultation to navigate this crucial stage of the selling process.
- Offer Management: Houzeo empowers you to review and compare offers, formulate counteroffers, and even request "highest and best" offers from potential buyers.
- Personal Concierge: The listing agent acts as a dedicated concierge assists you with various tasks, such as managing paperwork and ensuring a smooth selling experience.
- Seller Disclosures: Access essential seller disclosure forms to comply with legal requirements.
Why Choose the Gold Plan?
The Gold Plan is popular among sellers who value the additional support and guidance provided by a licensed broker throughout the selling process. While it does involve a closing cost, it can be a worthwhile investment for those who appreciate the extra hand-holding.
Important Notes:
- The flat fee for the Gold Plan itself is separate from the 0.5% closing cost. You can find the specific plan cost for your state by visiting the Houzeo pricing page (https://www.houzeo.com/pricing) and scrolling down to select your state.
- The features and services included in the Gold Plan may vary slightly by state.
Alternatives to the Gold Plan:
Houzeo offers other plans with varying levels of listing agent involvement and closing costs. Here's a quick comparison:
- Bronze Plan: Most basic plan with no closing cost, but limited listing agent services.
- Silver Plan: Offers some closing cost and some additional listing agent services compared to Bronze.
- Platinum Plan: Most comprehensive plan with the highest closing cost (1%) and the most extensive listing agent services.
Choosing the Right Plan:
The best plan for you depends on your individual needs and comfort level. If you prefer a more independent approach, the Bronze Plan might be suitable. If you value expert guidance throughout the process, the Gold or Platinum Plan could be a better fit.