SmartListings FAQ

SmartListings FAQ

How does SmartListings differ from listing a home the traditional way?

  1. With SmartListings, sellers receive a seamless end-to-end online experience.
  2. Sellers can list for free with the DIY option or pay one flat fee instead of the traditional 3% commission fee, saving them over $11,000 in fees.
  3. More communication and guidance from our agents. Our digital platform enables our agents to attend to clients’ needs at every stage of the process and provide the highest level of service.
  4. With everything online, our agents have more time to devote to their clients, listings and are available for communication 24/7.

What is the DIY option?

The DIY option allows home sellers to list their homes for free. As soon as a seller adds a listing through their Federa dashboard, we will list it within 24 hours on MLS, Realtor.com, Zillow, Redfin, and 700+ other real estate sites to maximize their exposure for free. The DIY option is similar to the FSBO process, but we provide a more convenient and cost-effective option.

If you are looking to list your property for free, get maximum exposure, and do not require professional assistance from an agent, then DIY is the best option for you. You will always have the option to upgrade to full service at any time. Get started here


What is the Pay Now option?

With the Pay Now option, a seller receives full service for an upfront flat fee of $3,000. The seller can cancel within 7 days for a full refund. Get started here


What is the Pay Later option?

With the Pay Later option, a seller receives full service and pays a flat fee of $5,000 at closing. The seller can cancel anytime before accepting an offer. Get started here


What is included with the Pay Now and Pay Later options?

View all the benefits that each option has to offer here.


What is the catch?

We receive this question frequently, but there's no catch. The value we provide differentiates us from our competitors. Many of our clients choose to buy a home through Federa after experiencing the difference. Additionally, if a DIY listing wishes to have professional assistance, they may upgrade to full service with an agent assisting them for as little as $3,000. Federa is changing the way people buy and sell homes.


Is Federa a full service brokerage?

Absolutely. Our clients will receive everything that any other brokerage would offer. Our Federa Agents will assist them through the entire process from listing to closing. The DIY option is available for those who do not want full service.


Who pays the buyer's agent commission fee for a full service SmartListing?

The seller is responsible for paying the buyer's agent commission at closing. As a matter of policy, Federa requires all full service SmartListings to include a minimum of 2.5% for the buyer's agent commission. Noting that Federa has no interest in this requirement other than ensuring the efficient sale of the property. 


Who pays the buyer's agent commission fee for a DIY SmartListing?

The seller only pays what is listed or accepted by the buyer's agent.


Do we host open houses?

Our agents don’t host open houses but if the home seller would like an open house they have the ability to schedule it. According to the market data, open houses are more beneficial for the buyers' agents as they have to host showings by default to gain more clients with other potential buyers.


Do agents meet with their clients?

No, our agents are strongly encouraged to follow the SmartListings process, which is a 100% online home-selling experience. By doing so, we will be able to maintain cost-effective pricing that will satisfy both our clients and agents. 


Is photography included? 

While professional photography is not included, Federa Agents can refer their clients to a local photographer if one is available, and payment must be arranged directly between the photographer and the client. In addition, clients may take their own photos and upload them to their Federa dashboard. It depends on the MLS, as most only accept 40 photos. We recommend adding 40 photos to ensure all get uploaded.


Does a seller sign a listing agreement?

Yes. When a seller signs up with Federa, they agree to our terms and conditions, which includes the listing agreement. View our terms and conditions here.


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