What is the MLS?

The MLS (Multiple Listing Service) is a professional database used by licensed real estate brokers and agents to share property listings and listing details in a standardized format. When your home is in the MLS, it’s visible to the agent community that actively works with buyers every day, and that MLS data often powers downstream websites buyers use to search online.

Why list on the MLS instead of only “For Sale By Owner” sites?

Because the MLS is where the professional buyer demand is organized. Listing in Stellar MLS puts your home in front of an enormous pool of working agents and the buyers they represent, which can increase visibility and shorten time-to-offer when your pricing and presentation are on point.

What MLS do you use?

We list in Stellar MLS, a major Florida MLS with broad coverage and a large agent audience.

How fast can you get my listing live?

Once you’ve uploaded all required information and everything is complete and ready for entry, our target turnaround time is less than 24 hours to prepare your listing for MLS activation (excluding MLS/technology outages and seller-caused delays).*

Where will my listing show up online?

Your listing will be entered into the MLS, and then it may appear on popular home-search sites that receive MLS data through direct feeds, broker-controlled distribution settings, and/or publisher networks. Stellar MLS specifically describes syndication to major portals such as Realtor.com, Homes.com, Homesnap, and Apartments.com, and also notes that brokers control where their listings are distributed. 

Important syndication disclaimer: third‑party websites ultimately control their own display. Even when MLS data is accurate, some sites may delay updates, reorder photos, temporarily pause feeds, or display occasional inaccuracies due to technical changes. Zillow has publicly documented that feed transitions can cause issues like stale data or photo order problems in some markets.

Can sellers offer any amount (including $0) to a buyer’s agent?

Yes. Sellers can choose to offer $0 or any amount they feel makes sense for their sale. However, it’s smart to understand how buyer representation works today and how buyers are structuring offers.

Typical guidance (non-binding): many sellers still consider offering something competitive to encourage buyer interest, especially in balanced or slower markets. A common conversation range in the past was 2%–3%, but what’s “competitive” can vary by price point, location, and market conditions.

Critical MLS rule note: due to MLS policy changes tied to the NAR settlement, offers of compensation cannot be communicated in the MLS (including remarks, attachments, showing instructions, etc.). Stellar MLS states that any direct or indirect reference to buyer-broker compensation in the MLS is prohibited and can trigger an automatic fine (notably, Stellar describes a $500 first-offense fine in its guidance). 
If compensation is offered, it is generally handled outside the MLS and negotiated as part of the transaction terms.