Why every MLS should know what it’s worth

Most MLSs don’t know how much their organization is worth. That might sound like a non-issue—until someone wants to merge, invest, or buy you out.

Valuations aren’t just for businesses preparing to sell. They’re a strategic tool to help MLSs make informed decisions, plan ahead, and uncover areas where they can grow stronger. Whether you’re considering a change or just trying to run smarter, knowing your value is essential.

When someone wants to buy you out

If a potential buyer knocks on your door, you’ll need more than a gut feeling to evaluate their offer. A valuation gives you a data-backed view of your organization’s worth, so you’re not guessing in a high-stakes conversation. It also puts you in a stronger position to negotiate and make decisions on your terms.

When a merger is on the table

MLS consolidation has picked up over the last few years. If you’re exploring a merger, a third-party valuation helps level the playing field. It removes emotion from the process and creates a clear baseline for what each party is bringing to the table. Without it, there’s no real way to know if the structure of the deal is fair.

If you want to sell shares to brokers

Some MLSs are exploring ownership models that allow brokers to buy in. But if you’re going to ask brokers to invest, they’ll want to understand the numbers. A valuation gives you a foundation for transparency and trust—and it helps define what ownership actually means in financial terms.

When you just want to run better

Even if none of the scenarios above apply to you right now, knowing the value of your MLS is still a smart move. It’s a best practice for any well-run business. And the good news is, valuations don’t just give you a snapshot—they can also point you toward ways to improve.

At WAV Group, our valuations include specific recommendations for:

• Cutting unnecessary costs
• Finding new revenue streams
• Attracting different types of customers
• Identifying ways to grow value over time

This isn’t just about looking backward at what you’ve done. It’s about seeing where you could go next.

Trusted help from someone who’s done this before

George Slusser leads WAV Group’s Mergers and Acquisitions division. He’s been in the trenches for decades and has personally led the sale of more than 1,200 real estate companies. He’s also conducted thousands of valuations, giving real estate leaders a clearer understanding of what their business is worth and what it could become.

If you’re curious where your MLS stands—or if you want help getting ready for what’s next—we’re here to talk.

Want to learn more or book a consultation?
Reach out to the WAV Group M&A team anytime.