The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) Guide: How Can I Gain Access to a Multiple Listing Service (MLS)?
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How Can I Gain Access to a Multiple Listing Service (MLS)?

Takeaways

  • There are over 900 Multiple Listing Services online around the world.
  • Most are located in the U.S. and Canada.
  • Each individual system is privately owned and sets the rules on who can access the system.

Did you know?

  • Almost 90 percent of home sales are through an MLS service.
Each online MLS service is privately owned. Whether you know it or not, there are more than 900 Multiple Listing Services (MLS) online throughout the world, with the majority of the databases in the U.S. and Canada.

However, there is usually only one local MLS system in any given geographic area. MLS systems may be owned and operated by a real estate company, a county or city, a Board of Realtors or other trade association.

Because MLS systems are privately owned they set their own rules about who can access the system. Generally, a consumer can only gain access to local MLS listings through their real estate agent, but there are exceptions. In California, Florida, Georgia and Alabama non-member brokers must be allowed to participate in the MLS.

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), about 87 percent of home sales come through an MLS service. Thus, access to the MLS through a realtor member makes buying a home and selling property easier, faster and more profitable.

Learn More about the MLS or Use it to Find a Home

To learn more, explore the advice on the MLS in this section of our site. You can view local MLS listings by visiting the websites of local GMAC Offices.