Category Archives: For sale by owner tips

Selling your home as a for-sale-by-owner listing in MN means you control the process and negotiate directly with buyers. It also means that you’re responsible for all of the paperwork, and consequently, any legal or financial mistakes. Whether you work entirely on your own or get limited professional help, you need to understand exactly what documents are required and how to complete them accurately to keep your home sale compliant and on track.

Since your home sale is often the largest financial transaction of your life, you should take the time to prepare all the necessary paperwork so that nothing falls through during closing. Here’s what you’ll need to provide, and why each document and what role each one plays in the sales process.

The basics you’ll need

• Property disclosure agreement – This is one of the most important documents you’ll need when you sell your house for sale by owner in Minnesota, MN. With this document, you can show your buyer all the known issues or needed repairs, so they understand the home’s condition upfront.

State law requires sellers to provide a written disclosure that outlines the condition of the home and any known material defects, which include issues like roof leaks, foundation cracks, water damage, mold, pest infestations, or problems with plumbing, heating, or electrical systems.

You’ll also need to disclose any history of insurance claims or boundary disputes, along with shared access agreements such as easements or private roads. The goal is to give the buyer a full and accurate picture of the home’s condition so they’re not surprised after moving in.

If you fail to disclose something important, you could face legal consequences even after the sale closes. This is why it’s prudent to hire a licensed inspector to document any defects you might miss.

• Purchase agreement – Use the purchase agreement to spell out everything your buyer must know about the sale, from the sale price to the closing date and any other contingencies. If your home was built before 1978, federal law requires you to disclose information about lead-based paint. You will need to provide the buyer with a specific EPA pamphlet and a written disclosure form confirming whether you have any knowledge or reports of lead-based paint hazards.

You’ll want to be extra detailed here, so consider arranging a professional inspection.
Anything you omit (even if you assumed it was obvious) or any vague language in the purchase agreement can become a source of legal disputes down the line. It is a good idea to have a real estate attorney or qualified transaction coordinator review your FSBO purchase agreement before you sign.

• Title check and deed preparation – Before you can transfer ownership, you need to confirm that your title is clear, meaning that there are no unpaid liens, boundary disputes, or claims from past owners. This is usually handled through a title search, which examines public records for any legal issues tied to your property. Once that’s confirmed, you’ll use a deed — typically a warranty deed or quitclaim deed in Minnesota — to transfer the title to the buyer. After accepting an offer, you’ll also need to review the closing statement, which breaks down all the funds exchanged at closing.
• Appraisal and property survey – Ordering an appraisal and survey can also help you confirm your home’s value and property values. Do this before you list your home for sale by owner in MN so you can avoid disputes down the road.

What’s the difference between the two? An appraisal gives you an unbiased estimate of your home’s market value, which helps you price it competitively and respond confidently to offers. A property survey verifies the exact boundaries of your lot and identifies any encroachments or easements. It also confirms the placement of structures like fences or sheds.

Both of these documents can help prevent pricing disputes or problems during financing and closing. Buyers (and their lenders) may request them anyway, so it’s a good idea to have them ready to speed up negotiations.

• Records of your taxes and utility bills – Keep recent utility bills and property tax records handy. Buyers often ask for these to understand the home’s ongoing costs. Be sure to consider any warranties that are still active on any new appliances and upgrades you have made to your home.

Close the deal with confidence

Staying organized with your paperwork helps everything move forward smoothly, especially when you wrap up a For Sale By Owner transaction in MN.

Before signing anything, take your time to review all documents with a real estate attorney who understands Minnesota regulations. This extra step can help catch issues early. Make sure you also complete any inspections and appraisals listed in the purchase agreement so the closing stays on schedule.

Take the guesswork out of the paperwork with Real Estate Corners

Need a helping hand on your home sale? Let our licensed agents at Real Estate Corners guide you through every document required to help you sell your home as a for-sale-by-owner in MN successfully.

You can also use our flat-fee FSBO package that starts at $399. It will put your home on the local MLS for at least 6 months and provide you with broker listing support. If you prefer more comprehensive assistance, our full-service representation starts at $600, with $4,000 due at closing. Give us a call at (612) 483-1230.

If you’re preparing to sell your home, then you’ve almost certainly heard the term MLS. MLS stands for Multiple Listing Service, and understanding how it works and which Multiple Listing Service in Minnesota you need to list on can go a long way in helping you make smarter decisions as a seller.

What exactly is an MLS?

An MLS is a shared database that shows you homes that are currently for sale within a specific geographic area. It standardizes listing information — such as pricing, property details, photos, and status updates — so that brokers and agents can market properties accurately and share listings and split commissions when a sale closes.

Many people assume that there’s just one MLS for the entire United States, but it’s actually not a single national system. In the US, we have hundreds of local and regional MLS databases, each covering its own territory. You’ll find more than 500 MLS systems as of 2025.

Real estate brokers and agents use these systems to post listings and share property details with other professionals in their network. They also rely on the MLS to update the sale status of homes they represent. That way, buyers don’t waste time on homes that are already under contract.

Access isn’t free, so professionals pay membership dues to make and edit listings. If your agent works in multiple areas, they may need to join more than one MLS. Each system, including the Multiple Listing Service in Minnesota, has its own fees and rules, as well as a coverage area.

How many MLS systems are in Minnesota?

Minnesota does not rely on a single statewide MLS. Instead, it uses several regional systems that work together.

NorthstarMLS is currently the largest and most widely used Multiple Listing Service in Minnesota.  It covers most of the state and is used by the majority of Minnesota real estate professionals. Most listings you see online in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas come from NorthstarMLS. It also shares data with nearby regional MLS systems to help agents access a broader pool of listings across state lines when needed.

Aside from NorthstarMLS, you’ll also find smaller or more specialized MLS platforms for certain regions or property types. When you list with us at Real Estate Corners, our goal is to ensure that your listing gets the broadest exposure through the MLS.

Do you really need MLS exposure to sell your home?

Listing on the MLS gives your property visibility far beyond a single website. When your home appears in the Multiple Listing Service in Minnesota, it is typically shared across many real estate platforms through syndication, so you’re reaching buyers searching on major national sites, even if they don’t visit the MLS directly.

That level of exposure is very different from posting your home on just one platform, where only casual browsers or local traffic might come across it. More visibility increases your chances of attracting serious buyers and competitive offers.

How do you get listed on the Minnesota MLS?

If you’re selling without a traditional agent and therefore can’t list on the MLS directly, don’t worry. You can still access MLS exposure through a flat-fee service. You only pay for the listing itself, so you still save on the commission you would have paid a listing agent.

Real Estate Corners offers a flat-fee Multiple Listing Service solution in Minnesota. Through MLS Online Minnesota syndication, your home will appear on hundreds of websites, including Realtor.com and Zillow.

We can place your home in front of buyers and other real estate agents across the state instead of limiting its presence in a single online database. That means you can get much more visibility for your property without relying on social media or paid ads to generate interest. Getting listed on the Minnesota MLS also helps ensure that your listing looks professional and complete, which makes buyers more confident that the property is legitimate and priced fairly, even if you’re selling it by yourself. It also encourages agents to share it with their clients.

List your home on the Minnesota for as low as $399

Listing your home on a local MLS is one of the most effective ways to make it more visible to many buyers across Minnesota. By listing on the right MLS, you can show your property to licensed agents and active buyers who rely on these systems to find their dream home. At Real Estate Corners, our focus is on maximizing exposure so your listing reaches more buyers. In doing so, we can help you price your home more competitively and sell as soon as possible. Our flat-fee Multiple Listing Service package in Minnesota gives you direct access to the MLS without committing to a traditional agent structure.

For as low as $399, your home can be listed on the MLS for six months through our flat-fee MLS listing.

We also offer a Full-Service Flat Fee Realtor Package that costs just $600 upfront, with $4,000 due at closing. Still much less than paying a 6% commission on your home’s sale price!

This package includes everything you’d expect from a traditional full-service listing. You will be matched with a licensed Realtor who will conduct an in-person market analysis to help you price your home accurately. Your listing will be professionally marketed online and promoted through targeted email campaigns to thousands of local agents.

A 6-foot broker yard sign will also be installed on your property, and we’ll set up home showing management tools, including electronic scheduling, buyer feedback collection, and email alerts for new or sold listings in your area!

We handle the coordination of showings, inspections, appraisals, and closing appointments. Your agent will professionally negotiate offers as well as review purchase agreements and prepare all necessary legal documents, too. We’ll even review all closing documents with you and attend the final signing.

Give us a call right now at (612) 483-1230 to speak to our licensed agents about selling your home.

Many FSBO sellers choose to list on their own because they want more control over how the sale is handled. Some want to avoid traditional agent fees, and others are simply looking for a straightforward, no-frills sale without outside involvement.

If you’re browsing MN homes for sale by owner, you’ll likely come across listings that are less polished, with sellers who may not follow standard practices. This means that you’ll need to approach these deals with more caution—and more preparation—than a typical agent-listed home.

Can you use a buyer’s agent?

Yes, you can use a buyer’s agent when buying MN homes for sale by owner, and in most cases, you should. Just because the FSBO seller does not have agent representation does not mean you can’t have representation, either. A buyer’s agent will walk you through fair pricing. They can also write and review contracts and coordinate inspections, essentially protecting your interests throughout the process.

Since the 2025 NAR rule changes, buyers now secure their own representation through a written agreement, rather than relying on commission terms shared through the seller’s MLS listing. That means you and your agent decide how the fee is handled—whether you pay a set amount, agree on payment tied to the agent’s involvement, or negotiate a credit from the seller. The structure is now yours to define, not something built into the listing by default.

How do you buy MN homes for sale by owner?

1. It’s a good idea to get preapproved for a mortgage before you start looking at MN homes for sale by owner. When you have a pre-approval letter, you’re showing sellers that you’re a serious buyer. This helps your offer carry weight. FSBO sellers often won’t wait around if they think you’re not ready to close.
2. Start searching for MN homes for sale by owner across platforms like Zillow (with FSBO filters), forsalebyowner.com, Craigslist, and Facebook groups. You might even spot yard signs while driving through the neighborhoods you are interested in buying in. FSBO listings usually don’t have professional photos, and the descriptions might be lacking details, so you will need to be extra proactive and ask questions.
3. Check if the price is fair. Some FSBO sellers know how to set a fair price, but others simply guess or base it on emotion. Don’t rely on assumptions. Run your own numbers using sales data from Realtor.com or county records. You can also hire an appraiser or have your agent pull comps. If the asking price is too far off from local averages, negotiate with the seller based on the evidence you’ve gathered.
4. Make an offer using a written purchase contract that clearly states your price, financing terms, contingencies (like inspections or appraisal), and closing timeline. Communicate respectfully and directly. Some FSBO sellers may not be familiar with how offers are structured, so you may need to explain certain terms or help guide the process.
5. Now it’s time to draft a complete purchase agreement. Be careful, as some FSBO sellers might unknowingly use outdated or incomplete forms. Whatever you do, don’t rely on verbal promises or informal notes. Your agent or attorney should create a full, state-compliant agreement that covers disclosures, closing costs, and legal obligations. This document protects you.
6. Order a home inspection and pest check, as well as a sewer scope and appraisal. Did serious issues come up? Respectfully ask the seller to make repairs or renegotiate the price. Make sure everything is documented before moving forward to closing.
7. Close through a title company, which will handle the final leg. Their job is to verify that the seller can legally transfer the home. They will uncover any unpaid debts or claims tied to the property and protect you against future title problems. They also handle escrow and coordinate final paperwork to make sure everything’s in place before you take ownership.

What are the potential risks of buying MN homes for sale by owner?

• Missing disclosures – FSBO sellers may overlook or skip required disclosures about potential issues like roof damage or mold, and this risk increases without an agent involved.
• Title problems – Some homes have unpaid liens or ownership disputes. You might also come across a property with easements that limit how you can use it. The title company should catch these during the title search, but it’s on you to make sure that title insurance is in place before closing, so that you’re protected if an issue shows up after the sale.
• Negotiating directly with the seller – FSBO sellers can be emotional about their homes, and that’s understandable. Negotiations can drag out or fall apart. Your buyer’s agent or attorney can act as a buffer and keep the conversation focused on facts.

When does it make sense to buy MN homes for sale by owner?

Buying FSBO can work well when the seller is easy to work with and ready to move forward. Are you comfortable reviewing contracts and hiring inspectors? You may have more room to negotiate price or terms directly. This setup also works when there’s already a relationship where both sides trust each other and want to avoid the formal listing process — such as if the sale is between family members or neighbors

When should you walk away from a FSBO listing?

If the seller avoids basic disclosure requirements or simply won’t return messages, the deal will likely collapse. You’ll come across plenty of MN homes for sale by owner, but some of them won’t be worth the cost or risk. Does the process seem disorganized from the start? Move on. There are better properties elsewhere.

We can help you find MN homes for sale by owner

At Real Estate Corners, we work with buyers who need guidance at different stages of buying MN homes for sale by owner, whether you’re just starting your search or already deep into negotiations. Let us know what kind of home you’re looking for.

Selling your house without a realtor could save you thousands of dollars, but you need to go in fully prepared — especially with all the paperwork that’s involved when you’re listing your home for sale by owner in Minneapolis.

Quick-reference checklist

• Purchase offer from buyer (price and terms)
• Sales contract/purchase agreement (drawn up by you)
• Two forms of ID (passport, MN driver’s license, etc.)
• Home inspection report (usually provided by buyer)
• Appraisal report (usually provided by buyer)
• Signed property deed (signed at closing)
• Closing statement (breakdown of all costs in the sale, showing what you and the buyer each owe, usually prepared by the title company or escrow agent)
• Bill of sale (includes final sale price and what’s included)
• Property tax records (effective rate and assessed value)
• Notarized affidavit of title (confirms that you own the property, there are no outstanding liens or legal claims against it, and you’re not selling it to anyone else)

Additional documents (may apply in some cases)

• Seller’s net sheet (estimates your take-home profit)
• HOA documents (rules, covenants, fees, etc.)
• Comparative market analysis (to support your pricing)
• Loan payoff statement or proof of paid mortgage
• Property survey or affidavit confirming survey results
• Proof of repairs or upgrades (receipts, contractor records)
• Home warranty paperwork (if transferring to buyer)
• Wills, trusts, or power of attorney documents (if inherited or sold on behalf of someone)
• Divorce decree (if applicable to ownership)
• Affidavits (e.g., name affidavit, non-foreign status affidavit)
• Correction statement and agreement (in case future errors need fixing)
• Closing disclosure (if buyer uses a mortgage and you agreed to concessions)

Documents you need for Minneapolis for sale by owner

Minnesota law requires a full set of documents for residential property transfers. Most are standard across the state, so you can’t skip them — doing so can delay the sale or even cause it to fall through entirely. If you’re managing a Minneapolis for sale by owner listing, the responsibility for accuracy and completeness falls entirely on you.

You’ll need to have government-issued IDs ready, along with the purchase offer from the buyer. Without a listing agent, you’ll be the one responsible for drawing up the purchase agreement — this is the legally binding contract that governs the sale, including disclosures, deadlines, and any contingencies.

Inspection and appraisal reports will usually come from the buyer, but you’ll need to review both carefully as they affect negotiations and final terms. Once everything checks out, you’ll sign over the deed and complete a closing statement, which itemizes who pays what.

You’ll also need a bill of sale (which acts like a receipt) along with an affidavit of title that confirms your ownership of the property. It shows that the home is free from undisclosed claims and that you haven’t sold it elsewhere.

Buyers and lenders may also request detailed property tax information from you, including assessed value and effective rate.

Additional paperwork

Some situations call for more documents.

If you’re trying to decide on a price, a comparative market analysis can give you a ballpark estimate based on recent nearby sales. It’s not an appraisal, but it helps you avoid pricing too high or too low.

You’ll also want a seller’s net sheet, which breaks down your estimated closing costs and shows how much cash you might walk away with. Use it to compare your potential profit from a Minneapolis for sale by owner sale against what you’d earn using a low commission agent.

You’ll also need loan payoff information from your lender, or proof of full payment if your mortgage is already cleared. HOA documents must be provided if your property is under a homeowners’ association. These typically include rules, restrictions, and required forms.

Your buyer may request survey results or affidavits to confirm boundary lines. You should also gather receipts or contractor records for major repairs or upgrades, especially if those improvements affect your asking price.

Inherited properties or homes tied to legal agreements (like a divorce settlement) require additional proof, such as wills and trusts or court-issued decrees. And if you’re selling on behalf of someone else, bring documentation for any power of attorney arrangements.

If your buyer is using a mortgage, you may need to sign a closing disclosure. This document will outline the loan terms and verify any seller concessions you agreed to. You might also be asked to sign a correction agreement that allows the buyer, their lender, or the title company to fix paperwork errors later without having to redo the entire sale.

Get help

Listing your property as Minneapolis for sale by owner means that you’re taking full responsibility for every pricing decision and all required paperwork. Not confident in managing legal documents or preparing contracts? It may be worth speaking with a real estate attorney or using a flat‑fee MLS service that gets your listing onto the MLS and manages the technical steps, including documentation.

Get expert help without paying 6%

Real Estate Corners gives you a licensed agent, full MLS exposure, and hands-on support through showings, offers, and closing — all for a flat fee.

Aside from advice on pricing and marketing, we can also help you review the purchase agreement and prepare the documents to make sure that everything’s in order before you sign.

You’ll pay $600 upfront and $4,000 only when the sale closes. Find out more.

Should you hire a traditional real estate agent or handle the sale yourself? Many homeowners face this dilemma when selling their house. When you hire a full-service agent, you can leave almost every detail — from pricing to the paperwork — in their hands in exchange for a commission. That’s tens of thousands of dollars deducted from your proceeds at closing.

In contrast, you don’t have to pay the commission when you choose an MLS listing service for a flat fee. You can still access the same MLS listing platform through a licensed real estate agent, but for a simple, affordable flat rate.

We’re taking a closer look at how both approaches work so you can decide what fits your goals best.

How do full-service realtors work?

When you choose the traditional route of hiring a full-service realtor, your agent handles nearly every step of the process, including:

• Setting a competitive price for your property
• Listing your property on the MLS
• Arranging professional photography and staging your home
• Managing inquiries from your buyers and handling all negotiations
• Coordinating your private showings and open houses
• Overseeing all your paperwork, especially at closing.

Of course, this expertise is not free — your agent will take a 5% to 6% commission from your home’s sale price. So if you sell your home for $400,000, that means you’re paying them around $24,000. As your sale price increases, so does their fee.

Avoiding hefty agent commissions with flat-fee MLS listing brokers

An MLS listing service for a flat fee gives you a simpler and more budget-friendly way to sell your home while keeping you in full control of the process. In this model, you pay a one-time flat fee to have your property listed on the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) instead of paying a percentage-based commission.

This fee is often just within a few hundred dollars, making it much more affordable than a traditional agent’s commission. Here at Real Estate Corners, you can get our flat-fee MLS listing service for as low as $399.

Many Realtors use the MLS to find homes for their clients, so it’s worth having your home listed there. Once your home is on the MLS, it automatically shows on other major public real estate websites like Realtor.com and Trulia.

Essentially, you act as the primary seller when you choose our MLS listing service for a flat fee. That means you’ll handle:

• Responding to buyer inquiries and showing requests
• Negotiating offers and terms
• Completing the necessary paperwork and closing details

At Real Estate Corners, you could buy additional services like color brochures and a market analysis. But don’t worry — our fees are still significantly cheaper than paying a traditional agent’s commission. When you choose our MLS listing service for a flat fee, you get the same visibility as a full-service Realtor, but for a fraction of the cost.

What should you choose?

Ultimately, your choice should depend on your comfort level and goals, as well as how involved you want to be when selling your home.

You might prefer a flat fee MLS listing service if:

• You’re confident about managing parts of the sale or are willing to learn along the way.
• Paying a low, predictable fee is more appealing to you than having a large percentage of your home’s value taken by an agent.
• Having full control over pricing and negotiations gives you more peace of mind.
• You want to keep more of your equity instead of losing a significant amount of it to your agent.

On the other hand, you might find it more comfortable to hire a full-service realtor if:

• You’d rather take a hands-off approach and have an agent manage everything.
• You don’t mind sharing part of your proceeds in exchange for convenience.
• You feel more secure with personal guidance throughout each step of the transaction.

Why are more home sellers choosing flat-fee MLS listing services?

More homeowners are discovering they can save thousands without sacrificing exposure or results, and we’re here to show you why. With our MLS listing service and flat fee realty solutions, you get the same visibility as a traditional listing, all for one affordable flat fee.

For as low as $399, our flat-fee MLS listing service gives you:

• MLS exposure — your property reaches thousands of active buyers.
• Access to top sites — including Zillow, EdinaRealty, and other major real estate platforms.
• An affordable alternative — sell your home without paying thousands in commission.

Our MLS listing service with a flat fee keeps you in control, but you won’t be alone. Our package includes a featured ad on our website and free lead forwarding via phone and email. You can also take advantage of our electronic showing services to simplify scheduling and collect feedback from potential buyers.

There’s such a thing as a full-service flat-fee realtor

At Real Estate Corners, we also combine the best of both worlds — full-service support at a flat, affordable rate. As Minnesota’s flat-fee realty specialists, our goal is to make your home sale simple and cost-effective from start to finish.

With our Full Flat Fee Listing Service, you pay $600 at signing, and then we’ll collect the remaining $4,000 from your proceeds at closing. This includes full marketing through MLS exposure and expert guidance, as well as step-by-step support through closing.

Sell your home smarter with Real Estate Corners

When you choose our MLS listing service with a flat fee, you don’t have to worry about losing a large portion of your profit. Give us a call at (612) 483-1230 today if you’re ready to take control and save money. Our team at Real Estate Corners is ready to work with you, whether you prefer our flat-fee MLS listing service or the full-service flat-fee package.

Black Friday isn’t just for TVs and gadgets — it’s also a prime window for serious homebuyers. Did you know that this could actually be one of the best times to list your home? At Real Estate Corners, you can take advantage of this season’s momentum and list your property on the MLS for as low as $399. Compared to the usual 5% to 6% listing commission, this affordable flat fee MLS listing can save you thousands while giving your home the same professional exposure as agent-listed properties.

Beyond the savings, there are many other compelling reasons why this shopping holiday can also be your best home-selling opportunity.

What’s the real estate market like during the holidays?

The holiday season is the biggest shopping period of the year. It kicks off with Thanksgiving, peaks on Black Friday, and continues through Cyber Monday. While you might associate this time with retail shopping, it’s also when many motivated home buyers are actively exploring their next move.

The period from Thanksgiving to Cyber Monday creates a festive energy, which in turn creates a sense of urgency for buyers.  Many of them use this downtime to look at listings and make inquiries online.

Serious buyers are looking

The Thanksgiving season tends to attract buyers who are ready to make decisions quickly. These individuals are often pre-qualified and eager to close before the year ends, whether to secure better mortgage rates or take advantage of relocation timing. Make sure that your flat fee MLS listing is live in time to capture this motivated audience. With Real Estate Corners, your MLS listing connects you directly to serious buyers searching through professional real estate networks and top listing sites.

Why list your home on the MLS on Black Friday?

If you’re planning to sell, a flat fee MLS listing timed around Thanksgiving could give your property early exposure to engaged buyers before the holiday slowdown.

• Seasonal promotions – You might find limited-time incentives like reduced commission rates or closing costs discounts from many agents and developers.
• Active negotiation – While overall sales activity stays moderate, many buyers use the holiday break to explore deals and negotiate purchases.
• Higher online engagement – Real estate websites see noticeable increases in traffic and virtual tours as consumers use their holiday downtime to browse listings. You can use this as a chance to show your home to more potential buyers.

Benefits of Black Friday for real estate agents and sellers

The Black Friday season can be surprisingly productive for both real estate professionals and homeowners like you.

• Connecting you with qualified clients – Buyers browsing during this period are usually serious about making quick decisions to buy your home.
• Easier to promote your listings – The season is focused on genuine deals, so buyers might take your offer seriously.
• Tapping into the buying mindset – People are already in the mood to spend on Black Friday, and you can take advantage of this excitement when presenting your flat fee MLS listing to them.
• Build brand awareness – Themed Black Friday campaigns help you and your agent gain more visibility and credibility.

If you position your home listing strategically, you can take advantage of these trends and reach an audience that’s already active and responsive.

Start a week ahead

You don’t have to necessarily wait for Black Friday to drop your price or refresh your listing’s position in MLS feeds. Why not get ahead of the pack and make your move earlier, a week before the holiday listing rush?

In fact, there’s no reason to fixate on Friday at all. Zillow data shows that nearly 1 in 5 price reductions actually happen on Thursdays more than any other day. Why? Because Thursday resets the MLS cycle just before weekend showings, so it gives you a chance to put your home back in front of buyers when they’re planning tours. Monday and Wednesday can also work, but once the weekend hits, most buyers and agents spend Saturdays and Sundays in the field and not in front of their computers.

Take advantage of Black Friday opportunities with our flat fee MLS services

At Real Estate Corners, you can get a flat fee MLS listing for as low as $399 — a fraction of the traditional 5% to 6% listing commission. By eliminating the listing broker’s portion (usually 2.5% to 3%), you could save thousands of dollars while still getting professional-level visibility.

Our Broker Reciprocity system ensures that your property appears on hundreds of websites that feature For Sale By Owner listings, including Realtor.com and Redfin. Your home will also gain exposure on local platforms such as MLS Online Minnesota, helping you reach more potential buyers.

And if a buyer finds your listing directly without an agent, you pay no commission at all, saving even more.

List your home in time for Black Friday

If you’re ready to sell your home before the year ends, this is your opportunity to take advantage of the holiday momentum with our flat fee MLS listing service. Call (612) 483-1230 today and let our team at Real Estate Corners help you list your home on the MLS with a flat fee service that’s simple and transparent.

With Real Estate Corners, you might start the new year with a successful sale and ensure that you can keep more of your home’s value in your pocket.

Selling your Minnesota home is already a difficult decision in itself, but it does not stop there. The next critical choice you may face is deciding how to list your property. After all, no matter how beautiful your home is, buyers won’t find it unless you’re on the right platforms. And in today’s real estate market, that means one thing: the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).

As a homeowner, you generally have two ways to access the MLS. One is through an MLS listing by owner, formally called For Sale By Owner or FSBO listing, which is done for you by a flat fee broker. The other is through a Realtor Full-Service MLS listing, which follows the traditional commission structure of paying a licensed realtor to list the property, negotiate offers, and manage the entire transaction, from staging advice to final paperwork.

You need to carefully consider the cost, control, and your comfort through the selling process when deciding which path is right for you.

What is an MLS listing by owner?

The MLS listing by owner service enables you to market your home independently as an FSBO while maintaining complete MLS market exposure. But since only licensed brokers can list directly on the MLS, you cannot do this by yourself — you need a flat fee broker to do this for you. The local MLS system will only accept seller data, photos, and showing instructions from your licensed flat-fee broker, who then becomes legally responsible for ensuring the listing meets MLS standards and complies with local real estate laws.

Your property receives identical substantial exposure through standard listing services after you complete the listing process. The property details will then become visible on thousands of agent websites and distributed to national portals, including Zillow, Realtor.com, and Trulia.

Flat fee service details

Flat fee MLS listing by owner services exist to help you take control of the process. It provides homeowners with direct MLS access without needing them to become fully represented or pay any percentage-based listing fees.

At Real Estate Corners, we offer a robust FSBO package. Our service starts at $399, which is a one-time fee to get the property listed. The fee covers the MLS listing service and distribution to major national real estate websites, as well as support from local brokers who understand the process.

Advantages of MLS listing by owner

The primary reason homeowners choose the FSBO flat fee route is cost savings. By eliminating the listing agent’s commission (which can be 2.5% to 3% of the sale price), you can save thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. What’s more:

• You retain complete control over the listing price, description, photos, showing schedule, and negotiation strategy.
• You speak directly with potential buyers (if they are unrepresented) or the buyer’s agent, streamlining communication.
• Your property still gets the essential exposure needed to sell, reaching the agent community that drives the majority of sales.

If you choose this option, then you must be organized, responsive, comfortable with negotiation, and knowledgeable about local and state real estate regulations.

What is a realtor’s full-service MLS listing?

A Realtor Full-Service MLS Listing is the traditional method of selling a home. You need to hire a licensed real estate agent who will serve as the listing agent through their brokerage. The agent handles every step of the home-selling procedure, which begins at the initial stage and continues until the final closing.

Services provided by realtors

A full-service realtor provides a complete range of professional services to their clients:

• Market analysis and determining the optimal listing price based on comparable sales.
• Professional marketing, including professional photography, drone footage, virtual tours, and staging recommendations, as well as marketing material production
• MLS and syndication for all online distribution activities
• Fielding inquiries and setting up showings, as well as leading open house events
• Representing you during all negotiations about price and contract terms
• Escrow management, disclosure fulfillment, inspection and repair handling, appraisal assessment, and legal closing compliance

Advantages of realtor listings

The cost of hiring a full-service realtor proves worthwhile for many sellers because of the value they receive.

• The entire process becomes the responsibility of realtors while you conserve your time and avoid the inevitable mistakes (and all the stress) of selling your home all on your own.
• Experienced agents who negotiate professionally also often achieve the highest sale price, leading to better terms that compensate for their commission fees.
• These real estate professionals have access to established vendor networks, which include attorneys, inspectors, handymen, and a list of potential buyers that FSBO sellers cannot access.
• What’s more, realtors handle all essential legal documentation and disclosure requirements to prevent any future legal disputes after the sale.

Which is right for you?

The choice between MLS Listing By Owner and Full-Service Realtor Listing depends on how much risk you are willing to take versus the potential benefits you expect.

Before listing, you should evaluate your budget, your personal comfort level with negotiation and paperwork, and the time you are willing to dedicate to the sale.

If you want to boost your earnings while independently managing your property sale in Minnesota, then you should reach out to reliable flat fee MLS providers. Call Real Estate Corners at (612) 483-1230 to get started.

The FSBO market in Minnesota is often full of great deals for home shoppers who want to look at houses for sale by owner during Thanksgiving, as well as for sellers who want to sell their homes before the end of the year. During this time, there are fewer distractions — there’s less competition on both sides and transactions often move so much faster.

Serious buyers don’t take the season off

People mistakenly believe that home purchases stop during the holiday season. The shopping crowd might find this statement to be true, but real home buyers continue their search for houses for sale by owner even during the Thanksgiving rush.

People who buy homes during late fall have genuine reasons to make quick decisions. They might be moving because they have secured a new job that will begin in January. Also, people choose to purchase homes before the year ends because they want to save on taxes and secure their financing. Some people also choose to move during the winter season because they need to establish their new home before the cold months begin.

Buyers in this group actively search through houses for sale by owner while scheduling property tours and submitting purchase proposals. The FSBO market becomes a hot spot for sellers who want to sell quickly because it attracts people who are already serious about buying right away.

Less inventory means more visibility for houses for sale by owner

It’s true that inventory levels experience a decline during the holiday season. Many homeowners decide to postpone their home sales until spring because they believe that the warmer months will bring the highest buyer interest. But this seasonal slowdown can actually create an opportunity, especially for houses for sale by owner.

That momentary housing shortage allows your FSBO listing to stand out because it faces no direct competition from multiple new listings. Your listing gains extra exposure because it appears to both buyers who search online and real estate agents who need home options for their clients.

In fact, houses for sale by owner listed around Thanksgiving often spend less time on the market than their spring or summer counterparts, not because demand is higher, but because competition is lower.

When you list with a flat fee MLS service like Real Estate Corners, your home appears alongside agent listings on all the major sites: Zillow, Realtor.com, Redfin, and shows up in search results just like any other property.

Sellers are often more open to negotiation before year-end

People who buy homes during Thanksgiving week will discover that sellers tend to be more open to negotiations because they want to finish their transactions before year-end.

Many FSBO sellers have actually already bought a new home to move into, and they want to avoid keeping two mortgages during the winter season. They’re eager to offload the property so as not to incur additional holding costs.

Selling your home during this time? Buyers who are motivated to purchase will probably agree to pay your listed price and complete the sale quickly if your home offers good value and presents well during the season. Many of these buyers want to lock in their mortgage rate before year-end changes, or are relocating for jobs and need to move in quickly.

Holiday schedules allow for flexible showings

Did you know that the Thanksgiving weekend is a surprisingly good opportunity for homebuyers to explore properties, which include houses for sale by owner? Serious buyers use their extra days off from work to look at homes instead of spending the long weekend solely on travel or shopping.

And for FSBO sellers, the holiday break gives them extra time to coordinate showings personally. They can handle last-minute appointments even when full-service agents take time off during holidays.

Real Estate Corners supports FSBO even during the holidays

Listing houses for sale by owner in November or December might sound daunting, but it can be surprisingly simple here at Real Estate Corners!

Our flat fee packages (starting at just $399) include everything you need to reach serious buyers, fast. This professional MLS listing service provides automatic distribution to major websites, including Zillow and Realtor.com. You get the freedom to manage your own showings, offers, and timeline on your terms, extending your listing duration if you need to.

Do you need additional marketing support, from physical materials like yard signs and color brochures, all the way to social media posts and email blasts to real estate agents in Minnesota? We can do those for you, too!

The service provides a free trial period with no additional fees to start using the platform. You can cancel your subscription at any time while maintaining full control over the cancellation process.

Real Estate Corners functions as a primary resource for buyers who want to find owner-listed properties that conventional real estate agents do not present in their listings.

Ready to explore FSBO listings this fall?

At Real Estate Corners, we make it easy for Minnesota homeowners to list smart, and for buyers to find quality houses for sale by owner without the noise. Our team provides complete support to buyers and sellers who want to confidently navigate the FSBO process before winter arrives.

Contact us today at (612) 483-1230 to help you get started, or explore our current listings to find your next home, before the year wraps up!

Not long ago, selling a home almost always meant hiring a real estate agent. But today, homeowners in Minnesota can list their property as for sale by owner (FSBO) to avoid paying the typical 6% commission charged by listing brokers. Another option is using a flat-fee MLS service, which allows sellers to manage some parts of the process while leaving marketing and exposure to licensed agents.

Through the Broker Reciprocity system, homes listed as for sale by owner in MN appear across hundreds of public websites that display by-owner MLS listings, including major sites like Realtor.com. They also gain visibility on platforms such as MLS Online Minnesota, which helps sellers reach a wider pool of potential buyers.

For buyers, the MLS makes it easier to find homes for sale by owner in MN. The Multiple Listing Service remains one of the most effective tools for finding and selling homes, and it continues to simplify the search for both sellers and buyers. As licensed agents, we can access the latest MLS listings in Minnesota and guide you through the options.

Why buy an FSBO home?

We make it simple to explore homes for sale by owner in MN here at Real Estate Corners. On top of that, our home buyer service includes attractive rebates that make the process even more rewarding. Whether you’re purchasing a new property, selling your current one, or doing both, we can represent you as a buyer and help you save money along the way.

You’ve found your dream home

If you’ve already located the property you want and choose us to represent you as the buyer, you’ll receive a cash rebate equal to 1% of the selling price, up to $4,000, once the closing is complete (with some restrictions).

You’re selling your home and want to buy another one

If you list your property with us and also use our services to purchase your next home, we’ll represent you as the buyer and provide a cash rebate of 0.5% of the selling price, up to $4,000, after closing (with some restrictions).

Quick look: What to check before buying an FSBO home in MN

How do you know that you’ve found the right FSBO home?

When browsing homes for sale by owner in MN, don’t rely only on what you see in the listing. The smartest way to find the best deal is to compare property specs and evaluate sellers. Here’s what to look for and compare when evaluating FSBO homes:

Compare sellers

When you buy an FSBO home, you have direct access to the seller. You can use this connection to guide your negotiations. For example, you may be able to secure a lower price by offering to close faster if the seller already purchased another property and needs a quick sale.

Assess the property’s condition and real value

Some FSBO homes are difficult to locate or view because they aren’t listed on the MLS. Working with an agent can help, since they may arrange showings through their contacts or by reaching out to the seller on your behalf.

Once you tour the property, ask questions about the home and the neighborhood. Also, compare it to similar recent sales in the area to see if the asking price is realistic.

Consider a home inspection

A home inspection isn’t required by law, but skipping it is risky — especially with homes for sale by owner in MN. Even well-intentioned sellers might not know about hidden issues like faulty wiring or foundation cracks. A licensed inspector will carefully examine the home’s major systems and give you a detailed report. If major issues come up, you’ll have the option to renegotiate or move on.

Know the closing costs

Before committing, ask about the closing costs tied to each FSBO property you’re considering. Knowing these expenses upfront helps you compare homes for sale by owner in MN more accurately and identify which option is truly the most affordable.

Will the seller take care of the buyer’s agent commission?

Find out early if the seller is willing to cover the buyer’s agent commission when looking at homes for sale by owner in MN. Many are willing to do this if it makes their properties more appealing, but some don’t want to.

Because of the 2024 NAR lawsuit settlement, buyers must now sign an agreement with their agent that clearly outlines the commission before services are provided. Many sellers may still cover this cost, but you can negotiate directly with your agent if they don’t. That way, you know their fee will be paid. You can also use this information when making an offer on the property.

Get a CLUE report or disclosures

Seller disclosures reveal known problems or defects in the home, making them important when buying an FSBO home. Many sellers are honest about issues in their home, but some may unintentionally leave out details or provide incomplete information without an agent’s guidance. Requesting a Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange (CLUE) report can give you extra assurance.

This report comes from an insurance database that records past claims filed on the property, giving you a clearer picture of its history. Keep in mind, only the current homeowner can request it.

Get experts on your side

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial commitments you’ll make, so having the right professionals on your team matters. Inspectors and attorneys, even loan officers, all have a role in protecting your interests when it comes to buying homes for sale by owner in MN.

And don’t overlook the value of flat-fee real estate agents like us. With our home buyer program, you can focus less on the stress of comparing homes for sale by owner in MN and more on finding the property that fits your needs — knowing you have support every step of the way.

We can help compare property specs

It’s easier to compare homes for sale by owner in MN when you have Real Estate Corners by your side. Our agents take the time to understand your needs and help you identify properties that truly fit your lifestyle and budget. Besides helping you find the right home, we’ll also advocate for you during negotiations and make sure that all the paperwork and disclosures are handled correctly.

Call us today at (612) 483-1230 and take the first step toward finding the best deal on your next home.

Did you know that since 1999, the National Association of Realtors has tracked seasonal trends in housing to see how market activity rises and falls with the seasons? These insights can give both buyers and sellers a clearer idea of how timing can affect MLS listings in Minnesota.

Why seasons matter in real estate

Seasonality is one of the most consistent patterns in real estate. The number of sales and the direction of prices, change throughout the year, often influenced by the weather and holidays, even school schedules and uncontrollable forces in the market. Understanding these seasonal cycles helps buyers avoid overpaying and allows sellers to list when demand is highest. If you’re working with MLS listings in Minnesota, timing your move around peak months can raise your chances of a faster sale or a better deal.

Quick look: How seasons affect MLS listings in Minnesota

Peak season starts in the spring

From March through May, the housing market in Minnesota gains momentum. Longer days and warmer weather make home tours more convenient, drawing more buyers into the market. Families often aim to buy during this period so they can plan their move during the summer break. As a result, MLS listings in Minnesota increase, leading to more competition between buyers. Home prices typically go up, too.

The busiest season

The pace of activity often carries into summer, with many sales closing between June and August. Demand remains strong, keeping prices elevated. By late summer, however, activity starts to ease as buyers settle into their new homes before the school year begins.

NAR data shows this cycle repeats year after year — MLS listings in Minnesota and prices peak in July, along with sales, and hit their lowest point in January. Since the housing recovery after the 2008 downturn, prices have generally trended upward, but the seasonal highs and lows remain consistent.

In the Midwest, summer is the most active time for buyers because moving in winter is far less appealing. On average, winter sales reach only about 60% of the volume seen during peak months. The school calendar also plays a big role — families prefer to wait until summer to avoid disrupting the school year. According to MovingLabour, July 31 is the single busiest moving day of the year, with most moves happening between May and September.

After the summer rush

As the busy season winds down, fall brings a noticeable shift to the housing market. MLS listings in Minnesota drop, but there are still serious home buyers at this point. In this case, sellers who list in the fall may need to adjust pricing or offer incentives as cooler weather and the holiday season make house hunting less of a priority for many families.

Market activity slows further as temperatures fall. From December through February, daily sales average just 11,380 — over 5,000 fewer than in the peak months. This seasonal dip also affects pricing. Homes sold in June are typically about 16% more expensive than those sold in the winter. On top of that, median days on market stretch from 31 days in June to 49 days in winter, giving buyers more breathing room to weigh their options.

Fall can be an especially favorable time to buy a home from MLS listings in Minnesota. Homes sold during these months tend to be around 5% less expensive than summer listings, without the deeper slowdown that winter brings. With fewer families willing to move mid-school year and the holidays diverting attention, motivated buyers often find better deals.

External factors like interest rates and overall economic conditions can magnify or soften these trends, but on average, home values swing by as much as 10% throughout the year. Timing, therefore, becomes an important part of a buyer’s or seller’s strategy.

The slowest season

Winter is typically the quietest stretch of the year for real estate in Minnesota. Harsh weather and shorter daylight hours, as well as holiday obligations, mean fewer buyers and sellers are active. That said, there are still highly motivated individuals who create unique opportunities during this season. For buyers, this might mean negotiating a lower price or having more choice without competing offers. Sellers just have to work with committed buyers who are very eager to close.

Seasonality and home sales in Minnesota

The timing of MLS listings in Minnesota can have a major effect on how quickly homes sell and at what price. Listing during peak months may bring more buyers and higher offers, while listing in slower months could mean your home stays on the market longer. Recognizing these patterns gives both buyers and sellers a clearer path to achieving their goals in Minnesota’s ever-changing real estate landscape.

FOMO may push more buyers to buy ASAP

Spring and summer bring more MLS listings in Minnesota, and these seasons also motivate buyers to buy as soon as possible. In addition to the competitive market, longer days and lax family schedules often spark bidding wars, driving prices higher. Homes sold in May, for example, average a 13.1% premium above market value. Much of this activity is fueled by the psychological pull of Fear of Missing Out (FOMO). In fact, surveys show that as many as 70% of buyers admit their final decision is influenced by emotions rather than purely logic.

Better negotiation in winter

Come winter, the market slows down with fewer buyers looking into MLS listings in Minnesota. As such, sellers are more open to negotiation. When absorption rates fall below 15%, price reductions and flexible terms become more common. The slower pace means fewer bidding wars, giving buyers a chance to carefully evaluate homes and negotiate for repairs, even request concessions. Compared to the premiums of spring and summer, winter can be a window of opportunity for buyers to secure better deals.

Navigate seasonal shifts with confidence

Whether you’re buying or selling, timing plays a critical role in Minnesota’s housing market. At Real Estate Corners, we make it easier to move forward no matter the season. For FSBO sellers, our flat-fee MLS listing service starts at just $399. Buyers can take advantage of our home buying service and earn up to $4,000 in rebates.

Ready to get started? Call us today at (612) 483-1230 to explore MLS listings in Minnesota and make your next move with confidence.