MLS (Multiple Listing Service)
A proprietary database of home listings that real estate agents use. Access to the MLS is largely controlled by the NAR, creating a monopolistic barrier for homeowners who want to sell without an agent.
First Mentioned
1/7/2026, 3:41:39 AM
Last Updated
1/7/2026, 3:48:17 AM
Research Retrieved
1/7/2026, 3:48:17 AM
Summary
A Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is a cooperative network of over 800 local databases in the United States used by real estate brokers to share property information and establish contractual agreements for cooperation and compensation. While the data is the proprietary information of the listing broker, the system facilitates market efficiency by connecting sellers' agents with potential buyers' agents. Recently, the MLS has become the center of a landmark class-action lawsuit (the Realtor Commission Settlement) against the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and major brokerages like Berkshire Hathaway. This legal challenge targets the NAR's alleged monopolistic control over the MLS and the practice of inflated commissions, with potential outcomes favoring consumers and technology platforms like Zillow and Redfin.
Referenced in 1 Document
Research Data
Extracted Attributes
Industry
Real Estate
Data Status
Proprietary information of the listing broker
Access Model
Subscription-based membership for licensed real estate agents
Core Purpose
Facilitate cooperation and compensation between real estate brokers
Total Databases
Over 800 (according to the National Association of Realtors)
Timeline
- A jury finds the NAR and major brokerages liable in a landmark class-action lawsuit regarding the inflation of real estate commissions via the MLS. (Source: Summary)
2023-10-31
- All-In Podcast Episode 158 analyzes the disruption of the NAR's monopolistic control over the MLS following legal settlements. (Source: d6ad65b4-1ee6-41ad-b655-1afeb7fa17c9)
2023-12-22
Wikipedia
View on WikipediaMultiple listing service
A multiple listing service (MLS, also multiple listing system or multiple listings service) is an organization with a suite of services that real estate brokers use to establish contractual offers of cooperation and compensation (among brokers) and accumulate and disseminate information to enable appraisals. A multiple listing service's database and software is used by real estate brokers in real estate (or in other industries, for example, aircraft brokers), representing sellers under a listing contract to widely share information about properties with other brokers who may represent potential buyers or wish to work with a seller's broker in finding a buyer for the property or asset. The listing data stored in a multiple listing service's database is the proprietary information of the broker who has obtained a listing agreement with a property's seller.
Web Search Results
- Understanding MLS: Definition, Benefits, and Fees in Real Estate
The multiple listing service (MLS) simplifies the process for finding and selling properties by consolidating detailed, up-to-date information from real estate agents and brokers. While digital platforms like Zillow, Trulia, and Redfin aggregate listings, MLS remains indispensable for its comprehensive, accurate, and precisely maintained data. This service enhances real estate transactions by providing both buyers and sellers with a thorough view of the market, enabling informed decisions. [...] MLS stands for multiple listing service, which is used in the real estate industry to list all the properties for sale within a specific region. ## How Does a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) Work? An MLS is a database created by real estate professionals that shows all the listings for sale in a region. Real estate agents pay membership dues to access the MLS, which contains listing details, including photos, square footage, and features of the properties. [...] A Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is a vital tool in real estate, offering a comprehensive database of property listings within a specific region. Created by real estate agents, MLS allows agents and brokers to share detailed property information. This cooperation also benefits buyers and sellers by providing access to a wide range of listings and enabling efficient market transactions. An MLS can help agents see one another’s listings and connect buyers looking for properties on the market. A
- How to Use the MLS for Smarter Real Estate Deals | Spyglass Realty
The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is the backbone of real estate transactions, serving as the most reliable and up-to-date database of available properties. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or a home seller looking for exposure, understanding how the MLS works can give you a competitive edge in the market. [...] The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is a vital tool in real estate, streamlining transactions for buyers, sellers, and agents. Whether you're a new agent, a seasoned professional, or a buyer or seller navigating the market, understanding how to use the MLS can save time, uncover the best deals, and enhance efficiency. [...] Navigating the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) effectively can transform your home-buying or selling experience. Whether you're searching for the perfect property or looking to market your home to the right buyers, the MLS provides valuable insights, comprehensive listings, and market data to help you make informed decisions.
- multiple listing service (MLS) - Real estate - Rocket Mortgage
The MLS is a collection of more than 500 databases around the country that are produced, maintained and paid for by real estate agents. These databases — collectively and selectively referred to as the MLS — provide details on properties for sale in a certain region. It’s a subscription service that is only available to licensed real estate agents, but your agent can share details with you. The listings give information on each property, such as photos, sale price, time on market, and features [...] Multiple listing services (MLS databases) are created and maintained by cooperating real estate professionals to share information about properties on the market. This data usually includes details such as the listing price, bedrooms, bathrooms, square footage and other similar data points relevant to potential buyers. [...] Often referred to as “the MLS,” the multiple listing service is actually a network of local databases for areas around the country, not a single entity. In fact, there are currently more than 800 multiple listing services across the country, according to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). That number fluctuates as neighboring databases come together to form larger, regional ones. ### The history of multiple listing services
- MLS.com - MLS Listings, Real Estate Property Listings, Homes for ...
MLS.com® is a free MLS search to find real estate listings for sale by Realtors® and other realty professionals that are members of your local MLS Multiple Listing Service. MLS.com® also features foreclosures, new construction, international properties and real estate classes. Find homes for sale, new homes and resale homes, new construction, acreage, lots, land, commercial properties and investment properties. MLS.com is independently owned and operated and is not affiliated with any of the [...] over 900 local MLS systems. On MLS.com you can list your properties and reach our global audience.
- What is an MLS and How Many MLSs Are There? Multiple Listing ...
What is an MLS?A Multiple Listing Service is an organization that is a collective of brokers. It establishes rules for cooperation in sharing and selling listings. Brokerages (and their agents) joining an MLS agree to abide by rules when working to sell other brokers’ listings, and those brokers agree to do the same in return. [...] RESO - Real Estate Standards Organization # What is an MLS and How Many MLSs Are There? Multiple Listing Service FAQ # Frequently Asked Questions About MLSs Multiple Listing Services (MLS) in the real estate industry are multi-broker organizations that increase access to housing opportunities and drive exposure for property listings. They ensure cooperation between brokers for buyers and brokers for sellers, which is a benefit for consumers. [...] Is the MLS a database?The MLS has a database, but the MLS is not just a database. The organization and its cooperative broker rules allow for a listing database to be created and shared between participating brokers.