This is a hot button issue across the country, but I'd like to conduct an informal poll and get a feel for how many associations allow this and what the advantages are and how many do not allow it and what the disadvantages are.
Let me set the stage ... our MLS allows individual agents and brokerage companies to provide access to the clients, through their websites to search the MLS for particular types of data ... namely current listings. Of course there are all kinds of rules and regulations on what can be shown, how it can be shown, who needs to be given credit, disclaimers, etc. That's not the question.
The question is should we set up an MLS owned website that allows consumers/the public direct access into the MLS (showing the same data as above)? The thought is that the public may feel more free, less obligated, and thus more likely to inquire about properties, if they can independently do their own research. Obviously there are lots of questions about exactly what this public website would look like, how it would refer buyers to the listing agents or their brokerages, etc., but what about the basic concept? What do you do at your MLS? What are the pro's and con's?
I do know there are some MLS providers that have provided access in a big way and later invited affiliates like insurance, title, home inspectors, etc. to sponsor the site with paid banner advertising. In thos cases the site has actually become a profit center for the MLS.
Your thoughts?
PS At this point, I completely nuetral to the idea.
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