Real Estate Recovery Good News in California

Real Estate Recovery Good News in California


Last Friday, August 19, 2011 it was announced that 2 MLSs merged and now it is one of the nation's largest with 68,000 participants and subscribers.

The California Regional Multiple Listing Service Inc. (CRMLS) merged with Anaheim-based SoCalMLS.  CRMLS, which is based in San Dimas, was formed last year as a stepping stone to having a statewide MLS.

These has been much debate among agents on an informal basis, that I know, as to whether having a statewide MLS will benefit or disrupt the status quo.

Thus far, participation in the statewide MLS  system is a total of 33 Realtor Associations. The California Association of Realtors also has an ownership interest in CRMLS. CAR represents 160,000 members in 113 local Realtor Associations.

I know from personal experience that our own MLS has been gradually going through many transitions as they merge with the Carets system. An agent in Oxnard can now pull data on cities in the desert and many miles and counties away.

The only reason I would help someone that far away is if they are close family and they know the area and what they want. Otherwise I cannot possibly assist someone, If I do not know the area.
 
Do any of our states have a statewide MLS and how does it work for you? I would be interested in finding out what the pitfalls are, if any, since this is the definite direction our MLSs are going.

I am reserving judgment on this question, but please let me know if you have experienced this type of system.