Real Estate News

The Growing Popularity of Customizable Listing Packages

Customizable listing packages offer real estate professionals flexible marketing solutions tailored to individual property needs. These adaptable services allow sellers to choose specific features

flareAI Services

19 Sep 2025 — 6 min read

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Imagine selling your home in West Michigan, where the scent of Lake Michigan lingers and the market hums with opportunity. Instead of committing to a full-service real estate agent, you select only the services you need: a polished MLS listing, professional photography, and a bit of transaction support. You handle the open house yourself, saving thousands in commissions. This isn't a fantasy it's the new face of real estate, driven by customizable listing packages that are transforming how homes are bought and sold in markets like Michigan and Florida.

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Customizable Listing Packages Gain Traction Post-NAR Settlement

Flexible, a la carte real estate services are reshaping how buyers, sellers, and agents navigate transactions amid a shifting commission landscape. The spark for this change is a pivotal National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement that has upended long-standing commission rules. As reported by AP News, these changes may encourage price competition among agents, potentially reducing costs for sellers who typically pay commissions for both their own and the buyer's agent. However, buyers may now face the challenge of covering their agent's commission directly, a hurdle for those already stretched by down payments and closing costs. This adjustment period is reshaping markets like West Michigan and Florida, where platforms like Sidedoor are gaining traction by offering tailored solutions.

The impact is clear: sellers can now pick and choose services staging, marketing, or paperwork while agents, title companies, and lenders collaborate to meet precise needs. In active markets like Holland, Michigan, and Florida's coastal hubs, this customizable approach is not just a trend; it's becoming the new standard.

Unpacking the New Real Estate Rules

The NAR settlement has fundamentally altered commission structures. Historically, sellers paid a standard 5-6% commission, split between their agent and the buyer's. Now, commissions are more transparent and negotiable, though not always lower. According to a Yahoo Finance article, the anticipated cost savings haven't fully materialized, and buyers may need to budget for their agent's fees, adding complexity to an already costly process.

Customizable listing packages offer a solution. Sellers can opt for specific services tailored to their needs perhaps a professional photographer for a standout listing or transaction coordination without full representation. In West Michigan, firms like West Edge Realty and Real Estate One are embracing this model, offering flexibility that resonates with cost-conscious sellers. In Florida, where remote transactions are common, out-of-state sellers are increasingly choosing targeted services to streamline sales without hefty commissions.

These packages also foster collaboration. Title companies, such as Chicago Title's Holland office, and lenders like Lake Michigan Credit Union, are integrating their services into these platforms, creating a seamless experience for clients who want efficiency without overpaying.

Real-World Impact: Stories from the Ground

In Holland, Michigan, a seller listing a charming bungalow might choose a package that includes high-quality photography and an MLS listing, saving thousands by managing showings themselves. In Florida, an investor selling a beachfront condo could pair a virtual tour with negotiation support, bypassing the full-service model. These hypothetical scenarios illustrate the power of choice: sellers gain control over costs while still accessing professional expertise.

Agents, too, are finding new opportunities. Customizable packages allow them to tap into deals they might not otherwise secure, particularly for niche transactions like investment properties or vacation homes. For example, a West Michigan agent might connect with a seller through a platform like Sidedoor, offering targeted marketing services that align with the client's budget. This approach not only expands an agent's reach but also positions them as a valuable partner in a competitive market.

Vendors benefit as well. Title companies and lenders can showcase their expertise directly to clients, moving beyond traditional roles to become integral parts of the transaction process. In markets like West Michigan and Florida, where real estate activity is robust, this collaborative model is proving to be a game-changer.

Challenges in the New Landscape

Despite the promise, hurdles remain. As a startup, platforms like Sidedoor face skepticism from consumers accustomed to the polished websites of established brokerages. Internal documents highlight concerns about perceived “startup” status, with some clients hesitant to trust newer platforms over industry giants with deep marketing budgets. Competition is fierce, as large firms leverage heavy advertising to maintain dominance.

For sellers, risks include reduced exposure if agents prioritize higher-commission listings. Misconceptions also persist some believe agents now work for free or that commissions are universally lower, a myth clarified by Realtor.com. Clear communication is essential to manage expectations and ensure sellers understand the trade-offs of a la carte services.

Seizing Opportunities in a Shifting Market

The opportunities are significant. For buyers and sellers, customizable packages offer transparency and cost control. A guide from Clever outlines strategies for negotiating commissions, empowering clients to secure better deals. For instance, a seller might negotiate a 1% commission for listing services instead of the traditional 3%, saving thousands on a $300,000 home.

Social media is amplifying this shift. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook are vibrant spaces where agents showcase tailored services, from virtual tours to staging tips. TikTok and YouTube further expand reach, allowing professionals to connect with clients through engaging, visual content. In West Michigan, where community ties are strong, agents are leveraging these platforms to build trust and visibility.

For the industry, customizable packages are reshaping expectations. As noted in a U.S. News article, the focus is shifting toward value-driven services, where every dollar spent delivers measurable results. This transparency aligns with consumer demands for fairness and efficiency, particularly in high-demand markets like Michigan and Florida.

A Future Defined by Flexibility

The future of real estate is bright and flexible. Hybrid models combining technology with human expertise are poised to dominate, offering clients the best of both worlds. Regulatory changes may further drive customization, as consumers demand greater control over their transactions. Sellers should compare packages carefully, prioritizing services that align with their goals, while agents can differentiate themselves by offering tailored solutions. Buyers, meanwhile, must weigh which services add tangible value, especially as they navigate potential out-of-pocket commission costs.

In markets like West Michigan and Florida, platforms like Sidedoor are leading the charge, connecting clients with vetted professionals for every stage of the process. The NAR settlement has set the stage for a more transparent, cost-conscious real estate market, and customizable listing packages are at the heart of this transformation. As homeowners and agents adapt, one thing is clear: the days of one-size-fits-all real estate are fading, replaced by a model that puts choice and value first.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are customizable listing packages and how do they work in real estate?

Customizable listing packages allow home sellers to select only the specific real estate services they need, such as MLS listing, professional photography, or transaction support, rather than paying for full-service representation. This a la carte approach lets sellers handle some tasks themselves (like open houses) while still accessing professional expertise, potentially saving thousands in commission costs. The model has gained significant traction following the NAR settlement, which made commission structures more transparent and negotiable.

How much money can sellers save with customizable real estate packages compared to traditional agents?

Sellers can potentially save thousands of dollars by choosing customizable packages over traditional full-service agents. For example, a seller might negotiate a 1% commission for listing services instead of the traditional 3%, saving $6,000 on a $300,000 home sale. However, savings vary depending on which services you select and your local market conditions. While the NAR settlement was expected to reduce costs significantly, actual savings haven't fully materialized as anticipated, making it important to carefully compare package options.

What are the risks of using customizable listing packages instead of full-service real estate agents?

The main risks include potentially reduced market exposure if agents prioritize higher-commission listings, and the challenge of managing some aspects of the sale process yourself. Sellers may also face misconceptions about what services are included or assume that all commissions are now lower across the board. Additionally, newer platforms offering these services may face skepticism from consumers who are more comfortable with established brokerages, though this is often offset by the significant cost savings and increased control over the selling process.

Disclaimer: The above helpful resources content contains personal opinions and experiences. The information provided is for general knowledge and does not constitute professional advice.

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