The conversation around an Open MLS model is gaining traction, particularly among real estate professionals who hold active licenses but are not members of local, state, or national REALTOR® associations. These licensee-only practitioners represent a largely untapped market for MLS growth. By quantifying this opportunity, MLSs can make informed business decisions about adopting an Open MLS strategy.
One of the best places to learn from fellow educators and education consultants is to attend The Bringing Educators & Associations Together for Success (BEATS) Conference. The BESTS conference is the premier event of the year for Real Estate Education Directors, Event Planners, and Speakers. Designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and professional growth,
NAR membership trends have historically followed the economy and the strength of the overall real estate market. As shown in the attached chart, NAR experienced significant membership growth following the market crash of 2008 to 2010 and continued on that growth trajectory until recently when the real estate market slowed significantly because of high interest rates and more limited buyer demand. While there have been minor decreases in membership since 2023, we hypothesize that these declines are more likely due to limited market opportunities and retirements rather than the rise of Open MLS subscription offerings.
For decades, real estate associations have traditionally owned and operated MLSs, providing brokers with access to property data while generating revenue from subscription fees. However, a growing movement is challenging the status quo, advocating for brokers—who supply both the data and the subscriber base that powers MLSs—to have a greater stake in ownership and profitability.
Multiple Listing Services (MLSs) have long operated under a standard subscription model in which subscribers pay a flat rate per agent, regardless of the size of the brokerage they belong to or the revenue the brokerage contributes to the MLS. This pricing structure is designed to ensure equal access to the database for all real estate professionals but does not recognize or reward the revenues delivered to MLSs from larger brokerage firms.
The fear of an Open MLS is largely unfounded. The experience of states that have embraced this model proves that associations can thrive without requiring NAR membership for MLS access. By focusing on value-driven membership, enforcing professional standards through MLS regulations, and embracing industry evolution, associations can secure their future while fostering a fair, competitive market for all licensed professionals.
For real estate associations, the employment contract of the CEO serves as a critical foundation for setting clear expectations and ensuring mutual accountability.
As MLSs across the country consider consolidation to strengthen their services and expand their reach, it is critical to provide tangible evidence of excellence in service delivery. The WAV Group Customer Index Survey offers a powerful tool for MLS leadership looking to showcase their strengths in technology, support, training, responsiveness, and data quality. For an MLS considering a merger or partnership, leveraging the survey results can build confidence and demonstrate your ability to deliver exceptional MLS services.
Overpricing a home can lead to excessive Days on Market, ultimately reducing its final sale price, while strategic pricing and pre-listing improvements can generate competitive offers. Brokers and agents use tactics like office exclusives, "Coming Soon" listings, and MLS policy adjustments to balance market transparency with seller advantage.
The Clareity25 MLS workshop celebrated its 25th anniversary at the Westin Kierland Resort in Scottsdale, uniting over 300 attendees under the theme "Dare Greatly." Highlights included a technology trends update from founder Gregg Larson, featuring insights from CES, and a legal panel discussing MLS rules and antitrust concerns.
If you are considering a change to how you manage listings, prioritizing compliance to maintain listing accuracy and prevent MLS rules violations is essential.
By opening the MLS to rental listings, the MLSs can provide a centralized platform of verified listings, enhancing transparency and security for both consumers and real estate professionals.
