Service advertisement framework (SAF) in a communications network

In one embodiment, a method includes receiving a first update message at a first forwarding node from a second forwarding node of the communications network. The first update message includes forwarded service type data that indicates a type of service available via the second forwarding node, and forwarded cost data that indicates a first cost of communications to obtain the type of service via the second forwarding node. An incremental cost is determined for communications between the first forwarding node and the second forwarding node. Service data is stored at the first forwarding node. The service data indicates the type of service is associated with the second forwarding node at a total cost based on the first cost and the incremental cost. A second update message that includes forwarded cost data based on the total cost is sent over the network from the first forwarding node.