It is indeed a bright day in the MLS. The largest MLS consolidation in history is on the countdown to launch. A memo was released today to REALTORS® who will be impacted by the project called MLS Evolved – revealing the new name of their future MLS – Bright MLS
Memo from Tom Phillips, CEO of Trend MLS
As we continue to update you, TREND, MRIS and 7 other organizations are working to consolidate and create the next era of the MLS. I am excited to announce the name of this new MLS organization will be Bright MLS. We chose this name based on our vision for the new organization and a desire for it to:
- Inspire belief that each day is an opportunity to give real estate professionals all they need to shine, today and tomorrow.
- Instill the vision of something that empowers our customers for a successful future.
- Lift us out of the sea of acronyms most MLSs use. These acronyms are often based on geographies or basic descriptions of informational databases.
- Be imaginative, clever, empowering, and supportive.
- Project leadership and innovative thinking.
As I’ve mentioned before, you likely have questions about the new MLS and in January we anticipate being able to provide you with more information.
MLS Evolved is one of the most impressive initiatives in America. It is a shining example of how organizations can place self-interest to the side and have an open and transparent business discussion and critical evaluation of the future of our industry. And, the role that MLSs must play to support REALTORS and Brokers in the best possible way.
Anne Bailey of Pranix Consulting had a very moving discussion on stage at CMLS with David Charron of MRIS, a company that, along with Trend MLS, is at the heart of this MLS consolidation. Charron asked Bailey the question of “How many MLSs should we have in America?” It was a longish answer that centered on the notion that over 700 is too many, and one is probably too few. MLS Evolved covers multiple States, demonstrating that State lines are not necessarily the answer. There are many statewide MLS initiatives. Perhaps the number is 10 or 20 or 30. We do not really know.
With Bright MLS, and California Regional MLS, we are seeing the emergence of two mega MLSs. For the first time, we will see multiple MLSs with more than 70,000 subscribers. I would expect that the Midwest would organize something similar in the future. There is some potential in Florida, Texas, and the upper Northwest. The upper northeast would make a good candidate too.
Giving up what you have to create something new on the hopes of finding improvement is the definition of courage. Like the first astronauts who strapped a rocket to their butt and launched into space, it takes courage. All of the planning, forecasting, and research by the brightest minds will deliver a mere sliver of certainty. Leadership is the confidence to reimagine something new, and pursue it with the support and dedication of others. Tom Phillips, David Charron, and the directors of many organizations are working tirelessly to make this happen – and liftoff is a short countdown away.
To read the story of MLS Evolved at BrightMLS.com
