MLS Standards

There are certain requirements to place a home on MLS.

The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is a standardized tool used by real estate professionals that allows them to advertise homes for sale by inputting a specific set of criteria that buyers and their agents can use when searching for a property.

Function

Types of data shared on MLS go beyond address and price. MLS standards require that agents put data such as square footage, number of stories, fireplaces, bathrooms, bedrooms and various other data so that home searches are specific to a buyer's wants and needs.

Photos

MLS standards require agents to upload at least one photo into a system for advertising, but agents can upload as many as 25 photos to the MLS system depending on the local real estate board's preferences.

Effects

Standardization of data input in MLS systems across the US allows real estate professionals to access listing information from different areas easily. For many years, every local area was in charge of their MLS systems; however, as of May 7, 2010, integrated standards to MLS enable easier sharing from state to state.

References

• Marketwire: New MLS Standards Will Help Realtors® Better Serve Home Sellers and Buyers
• National Association of Realtors: Law and Policy