Podcasts about cmls

In this episode of Industry Relations, Rob and Greg recap the 2025 NAR Midyear Meetings in Washington, D.C., discussing key industry developments, MLS policy changes, and behind-the-scenes dynamics. Topics include the repeal of the commingling ban, updates to NAR's controversial 10-5 speech policy, and ongoing MLS consolidation. They also cover vendor presence, association politics, and speculation around leadership changes in CMLS.   Key Takeaways   Compass “Protest” at Midyear – Greg recounts organizing a publicity stunt in front of Compass's hotel to promote Tuesday.com  Repeal of Co-mingling Ban – Discussion on how NAR's removal of the commingling restriction could impact listing syndication and MLS relevance. 10-5 Policy Changes – Rob and Greg unpack the revision of NAR's hate speech rule, its political implications, and the proposal for a “conduct unbecoming” clause. MLS Consolidation – A growing theme from the meetings was consolidation, with T3 data showing Bright MLS now leading in subscriber count. CMLS Leadership Transition – With Denee Evans stepping down, the episode explores possible successors and whether CMLS and RESO should consider a merger. Policy Governance Shifts – Signs point to NAR possibly stepping back from MLS policy-making, sparking conversation about which organization might take that role. Vendor and Trade Show Insights – Observations about reduced vendor presence and the challenges for newer tech companies trying to break into the space. Affordability and Market Outlook – Brief discussion on macro issues like tariffs, political shifts, and whether the real estate market is moving toward a buyer's market. LInks Rally for the MLS (video) ZillowGate Van   Connect with Rob and Greg Rob's Website https://notoriousrob.substack.com/ Greg's Website https://www.vendoralley.com/about-2/ Watch us on YouTube Our Sponsors: Cotality https://www.cotality.com/ Notorious VIP https://notoriousrob.substack.com The Giant Steps Job Board https://vendoralley.jobboard.io/   Production and Editing Services by Sunbound Studios

After missing a recording last week (due to travel schedules) the boys are back with another jammed pack episode of Industry Relations.  In this week's episode Rob and Greg discuss recent Blueprint conference in Las Vegas, CMLS 2024 in Seattle and REColorado new subscriber agreement.  And they sprinkle a little CCP talking points just for good measure. Watch us on YouTube!   Pictures of Greg's sister, Pilar, winning her own award Pictures of Greg presenting at CMLS 2024 HousingWire post on REColorado acquisition Greg's take on Rob Reffkin's CMLS 2024 interview   Connect with Rob and Greg:  Rob's Website Greg's Website   Our Sponsors:  CoreLogic Notorious VIP The Giant Steps Job Board This podcast is produced by Sunbound Studios

As we enter the second full week of the implementation of the settlement, I began getting many calls for me to draft an Exclusive Right to Sell Agreement that is NOT broker to broker compensation.  Brokerages have already started to recognize that the traditional system of broker to broker compensation is not only on the endangered list but is also a liability nightmare.  Therefore, I have now drafted an open-source ERTS document for the industry. The CMLS has already put this document on their website and emailed a copy of the document to everyone.  CMLS Version: ERTS Contract CMLS VERSION.docxOpen Source Version: ERTS Contract Open Source VERSION.docxDon't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area. 

We cover Rate Movements, the next Bank of Canada Rate Move: What to expect & Why. Hey! If its another edition of Angry Mortgage there has to be some more Mortgage Fraud to cover. What's up with Vacation Homes & Cottages? New trends & what to make of the bump in Cottage Real Estate. CMLS & Nesto, what just happened & what to expect. Viewer Mail An WTAF: Jann joins in on the absolute insanity going on in Toronto 

Here's part of the conversation between Karissa, Sarah, and Stewart: Karissa: It's truly bespoke. If a lender has extremely long duration needs, we can find that for them. Right now, it's really hard to find that because of what's going on in the market with interest rates, everybody wants short. However, if a lender needs three- to five-year duration, that's available as well. Stewart: That's cool. And so just so everyone's aware, Aegon Asset Management is part of Aegon, which is a massive insurance company. And Transamerica here in the US is part of that as well. Can you remind me and our listeners of the relationship between Aegon Asset Management and Transamerica on the commercial mortgage loan side? And just kind of set the stage for the rest of the podcast in terms of how you work together. Karissa: Sure. We began investing for them about 40 years ago, and we currently have a portfolio of about $11 billion on our general account. We also manage assets for third party investors, and we have about a $3 billion that we're managing for them.1 Typical loan sizes are around $15 million with a range of 3 to 50 million depending on the size of the insurer. We invest across all major sectors, primary, secondary, and tertiary markets. We're headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa so we understand the nuances that are outside the top 100s. We've historically and continued to be an active investor in those markets when opportunities present themselves. Stewart: Yeah, it's funny, I had a friend who covered your shop in Cedar Rapids from Chicago years and years ago. I have fond memories of that area. So Karissa, a lot has changed in the market environment in the last two years in this space. You just referred to it a moment ago. And for all asset classes, but in particular, how has CML origination and allocation been affected?

Not one week goes by without some huge industry news surrounding NAR. In this episode, Rob ang Greg discuss the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals' reversal in the NAR vs. US lawsuit, paving way for a new probe in the wake of the pending commission lawsuit settlement. Rob and Greg explore the antitrust lawsuit's history, implications of the reversal, and how it aligns with their predictions for the industry and future of NAR.   Greg talks about the NAR-DOJ agreement and potential political impacts, while Rob focuses on the long-term effects. The dynamic duo stress on focusing on industry practices, legal settlements, and progress.   Rob and Greg also debate the CMLS and NWMLS amicus briefs on MLS practices, while illustrating the timing and what the industry is signaling. This episode is jam packed with industry insights.   Listen to the Industry Relations Podcast, available on all podcast platforms! Follow this link to subscribe to Industry Relations YouTube page Listen to the podcast on Apple Listen to the podcast on Spotify Connect with Rob and Greg:  Rob's Website Greg's Website Our Sponsors:  Notorious VIP This podcast is produced by Two Brothers Creative 2024.

Joining James and Keith on this episode of Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered is special guest Denee Evans, CEO of CMLS. Tune in as they talk about the pivotal roles, challenges, and the future of the MLS. Denee candidly talks on the DOJ's recent statements about MLS policies to envision the industry's trajectory, offering invaluable insights, laughter, and innovative ideas. Discover how CMLS engages with the DOJ, potential shifts in MLS policies, and initiatives enhancing transparency and consumer education.    Plus, James as Superman? And Denee briefly talks about witnessing a robbery. This show is packed with industry insights and stories you don't want to miss!   For more on Denee and CMLS check out: CMLS White Papers Connect with Denee on LinkedIn   Follow Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered Podcast on Instagram - YouTube - Facebook - LinkedIn - TikTok. Visit us online at realestateinsidersunfiltered.com. This podcast is produced by Two Brothers Creative 2024.

Welcome back. It's so nice to have you and thanks for joining us. Today's topic is CMLs in 2024: A Repriced Market with Attractive Opportunities? And that's being posed by Greg Michaud, who's the head of real estate finance at Voya. This information is proprietary and cannot be reproduced or distributed. Certain information may be received from sources Voya Investment Management considers reliable; Voya Investment Management does not represent that such information is accurate or complete. Certain statements contained herein may constitute "projections," "forecasts" and other "forward-looking statements" which do not reflect actual results and are based primarily upon applying retroactively a hypothetical set of assumptions to certain historical financial data. Any opinions, projections, forecasts and forward looking statements presented herein are valid only as of the date of this document and are subject to change. Voya Investment Management is not soliciting or recommending any action based on any information in this document.

How valuable is it to be a member of the National Association of Realtors? On this episode of #IndustryRelations, Rob and Greg discuss the value of being a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Will the recent announcements of Redfin leaving and other franchisors taking away the requirement for franchisees being NAR members make a big difference in member count? Greg also shares his firsthand experience at this year's CMLS conference in New Orleans, providing insight into the current state of the MLS industry.    Follow this link to subscribe to Industry Relations YouTube page Listen to the podcast on Apple Listen to the podcast on Spotify Connect with Rob and Greg:  Rob's Website Greg's Website Our Sponsors:  Notorious VIP This podcast is produced by Two Brothers Creative 2023.

Many of you have heard or read the headlines that South Carolina has outlawed Chinese ownership of land. Well that is not exactly true. Today I examine the status of the proposed bill that could limit some ownership of property by persons of countries hostile to the United States. I also review the changes in the South Carolina Disclosure Form and the Consolidated Multiple Listing Service.  Lastly, another squatters case has occurred that needs further review.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area. 

Saga Communications (SGA) raised its quarterly dividend to $0.25 from $0.20. Saga Communications (SGA) is a broadcast company that owns radio stations in primarily small to midsize markets. They own or operate 79 FM and 35 AM radio stations in 27 markets. George Tsilis weighs in on how SGA compares to CMLS, BBGI, SALM, and AUD. The SGA stock price is up over 21% year-to-date.

https://tribus.captivate.fm/ (Enjoying Brokerage Insider? Please Subscribe Using Your Favorite Podcast Player.) TRANSCRIPT:

The September Market Action numbers are out and we’re diving in to discuss the latest spikes, streaks, trends, and record breakers the market is showing us. Join Beth Raimer and John Ayers for the market overview and some notable updates, including a live training session with Paragon & CRS Data, and a CMLS conference review. […]

Ask the average consumer what they know about the MLS, and you're likely to hear about their favorite Major League Soccer team. But CMLS wants to change that, and the organization is on a mission to educate the general public around the benefits of working with a real estate professional and listing a home on the MLS.   Katie Smithson is the Director of Enterprise Sales at Lone Wolf Technologies, and she serves on the Board of Directors for both the Council of Multiple Listing Services and Real Estate Standards Organization. On this episode of Listing Bits, Katie shares CMLS's new In the Know Campaign, describing how the initiative seeks to convey the importance of the MLS to consumers. Katie explains why CMLS partnered with 1000watt to develop assets for In the Know and how agents and brokers can use the campaign's digital content to share the CMLS message with consumers. Listen in to understand how Lone Wolf is integrating In the Know content into Cloud CMA and find out how other vendors can get involved in educating consumers on the value of the MLS. What's Discussed:     How CMLS's Making the Market Work Campaign communicated the value of the MLS to its members CMLS's partnership with 1000watt to develop assets for the new In the Know Campaign How the In the Know Campaign conveys the importance of the MLS to consumers Why In the Know is not specific to a particular MLS system but advocates for the industry as a whole CMLS's hope that brokers and agents will share the campaign's message with consumers Why exclusive listings are not a good look for organized real estate in light of Fair Housing legislation How listing on the MLS gives sellers the best exposure in a given market How In the Know assets are designed for brokers, agents and vendors to put to use How the Lone Wolf Technologies team is integrating In the Know content into Cloud CMA Live Katie's insight around how other vendors might get involved with the In the Know Campaign Connect with Katie: Email ksmithson [at] lwolf [dot] com Resources: CMLS's In the Know Campaign CMLS RESO CMLS's Making the Market Work Campaign 1000watt NAR MLS Clear Cooperation Policy The Fair Housing Act   Our Sponsor:  Cloud CMA for Brokers

Policy may not be sexy, but without standards around how we format real estate data and build technology systems, we simply can’t share data or integrate the tools we need to do our jobs well. Sam DeBord serves as CEO of the Real Estate Standards Organization, the trade group responsible for developing the open standards that drive efficiency and streamline technology for the industry. His resume includes a wide range of leadership positions in the real estate space, including President’s Liaison for MLS and Data Management at NAR and VP of Government Affairs with Washington Realtors. Sam is also the VP of Strategic Growth for Coldwell Banker Danforth in Seattle and writes for REALTOR Magazine, Inman News and the Swanepoel Trends Report.   On this episode of Listing Bits, Sam describes RESO’s role in the real estate industry, explaining how the standards set by his organization provide certainty for developers and support data shares and tech integrations. He shares the progress RESO has made in the last year, discussing what they have done to streamline compliance certifications and initiate the proposed Listing Exchange Access Policy. Listen in for Sam’s insight on the constraints of the current market (and the new tech that’s emerged as a result) and find out how he thinks about the kerfuffle surrounding the most recent mergers and acquisitions in the real estate space. What’s Discussed:   What RESO does to create efficiencies and streamline tech for the real estate industry RESO’s evolution to an independent trade organization and how it relies on thousands of volunteer SMEs to build its Workgroups RESO’s recent work to streamline its compliance certifications and create a new development guide for vendors How RESO standards provide certainty for developers and support data shares and integrations Why Sam is a proponent of creating a single policy for how data is used and displayed (and how that would help brokers) RESO’s work with the broker community and CMLS to draft the proposed Listing Exchange Access Policy The progress RESO has made in just the last year to align industry trade organizations, brokers and MLSs around common goals How RESO standards helped facilitate the NorCal MLS Alliance Sam’s take on how the artificial constraints of the current market impact agents and the tech facilitating the trend to buy homes sight unseen How Sam thinks about the most recent mergers and acquisitions in the real estate space Why proptech companies need to recognize our cultural preference to work with an agent The potential problems associated with a broker-member of an MLS being paid by that MLS for a technology service Connect with Sam: Real Estate Standards Organization Email sam[at]reso[dot]org Sam on Twitter   Resources:   RESO Workgroups RESO Web API Tools & Software RESO’s Broker Advisory Workgroup RESO Certification 2020 RESO Certification Updates Andy Woolley CMLS NAR NAR’s MLS Technology & Emerging Issues Advisory Board Summary of NAR’s 2021 MLS Policy Changes CMLS’s Participant Data Access Policy LeadingRE The Realty Alliance CMLS’s CCP Implementation Guide RESO Compliance Guide NorCal MLS Alliance Zillow Economist Jeff Tucker on Industry Relations EP059 CoStar Zillow’s Acquisition of ShowingTime Greg on Twitter RESO’s Unique Organizational Identifier (UOI) Victor Lund at WAV Group RESO Remix RESO’s 2021 Fall Conference Our Sponsor: Cloud CMA

Also some pretty interesting intel on mortgage penalties and the ripple effect they have through the layers of the business. Thank you Dan Putnam and Sam Rizzo!

Mortgages are classified as one of the following three; Insured, Insurable, or Uninsured/Conventional.The way a mortgage is priced and qualified depends on how its funds were purchased, acquired or allocated.Mortgages are either insured by the borrower, bulk insured (securitized) by the lender, or simply uninsured all together.Once they are given their insurability classification, they are then priced and underwritten, accordingly:(1) INSURED MORTGAGESOnly available for purchases of owner-occupied properties under $1M with 25 year amortizationsminimum down payments of 5%, but cannot exceed 20%the premium is commonly paid for by the applicant via an equity stake on the property (rather than out of pocket). For example, let's say you are purchasing a $400,000 property with a 5% down payment. Your mortgage would be $380,000 PLUS an insurance premium of 4% of the mortgage amount. Therefore, your total mortgage would be bumped up to $395,000 ($380,000 + $15,200)mortgage premiums range from 2.4% to 4%. The lower your down payment, the higher your premiumthese mortgages feature the lowest interest rates as they are virtually risk-free to the lender that is issuing them. In the event the homeowner defaults on the mortgage the lender is reimbursed by the insurer against loss, furthermore backstopped by the Government of Canada in the event the insurer becomes insolvent. SUMMARY: low rates, but expensive when you factor in the massive equity hit as a result of the insurance premium...if possible, increase your down payment to fall in to a lower premium range(2) INSURABLE MORTGAGESavailable for purchases under $1M and mortgage renewal transfers (mortgages that are simply switched from one lender to another at maturity, no new money), 25 year maximum amortizationminimum down payment 20%these mortgages are "bulk" insured as opposed to "transactionally" insured. Bulk insured mortgages protect the lender against default, but not to the degree of a transactionally insured mortgage above. A big plus however, is that the lenders pay for the insurance premium, not the applicant!SUMMARY: highest interest rates are with 20% down payment mortgages, but they often drop all the way down to the insured rate range once you hit the 35% down payment threshold. These lenders are almost exclusively available through mortgage brokers as they are mainly non bricks and mortar type of lenders (First National, CMLS, Home Trust, Equitable Bank, etc). This is a critical space in Canada's mortgage industry as it is often regarded as the competitive force that keeps the Big 5 Banks accountable and competitively priced.(3) UNINSURED MORTGAGESlenders in this group consist of large balance sheet lenders and big banks. Uninsured mortgages (aka conventional mortgages) are where exceptions on tough deals are made. The qualifying guidelines from lender to lender vary significantly. Mortgage Brokerages that are equipped with several Uninsured Mortgage providers are a cut above the rest as they have a massive advantage in approving a much broader range of mortgage applications than brokerages with fewer uninsured mortgage providers.minimum down payment 20%, up to 30 year amortizationspurchases of $1M and greater are allowedrefinances are allowedSUMMARY: often non-competitive posted rates, but can be negotiated lower. As with insurable mortgages, interest rates approach insured mortgage rate thresholds as the down payment increases to 35%. Qualification criteria is significantly loosened in this group when compared with the Insured and Insurable lenders Marko Gelo Garage Band Sessions: (produced and performed my Marko)"Cheap Money" ...intro song (0:41)

Hello, everyone! Welcome back to CEO Secrets. Today, our guest is the CEO of the Council of Multiple Listing Services (CMLS). Let us welcome, Denee Evans. Denee Evans started off with a career in banking and finance. After being involved in a project for making homes more energy efficient, she was introduced to the world of Multiple Listing Services. In the 6 years of being the CEO of CMLS, she has established a unified voice for the MLS industry. She was able to drive innovation through the foundation of CMLS Section Councils, and supported groundbreaking agreements with other industry stakeholders. Let us learn more from Denee on the value of having Multiple Listing Services and her views on helping improve the efficiency of MLS to become the best partners to brokers and agents. Top Takeaways: 1. Why open communication is the key (05:25) 2. Is there a need for a National MLS? (08:27) 3. Technological advancements to look forward to in the MLS industry (13:01) 4. The single biggest struggle for each MLS across the country (19:04) 5. Prediction: What would be the biggest disruptor for real estate? (24:31) 6. What secrets Denee uncovered in becoming a great leader (31:22) Episode Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1OGoF3GKUE6eHxNHKeMp8jtXm4RmMqpE5YlCEqWqv0BM/edit?usp=sharing

Long-distance relationships are never easy. And if you’re part of the traveling circus that is the real estate conference circuit, you may be struggling to keep your professional relationships going in a virtual environment. Would being an orc help?   On this episode of Industry Relations, Rob and Greg are discussing the current pause in the real estate conference and trade show circuit and mourning the loss of chance meetings that don’t happen in a virtual environment. They explore why massively multiplayer online games (MMOs) like World of Warcraft work to create community and how real estate might replicate that always-on culture until the conference circuit comes back.   Rob and Greg go on to cover the challenge of sustaining long-distance relationships in an online world, explaining why we just can’t duplicate face-to-face interaction at virtual events. Listen in for insight on how going virtual is impacting MLSs, associations, and vendors and learn about the possibility for a 2020 MLS Proptech Symposium (which Rob wants to rename to the “2020 MLS Herd Symposium”) that would help sponsors make decisions about the feasibility of their own fiscal events.   What’s Discussed:    The current halt to the real estate conference/trade show circuit What Greg covers in his forthcoming book, The Art of the CMA The chance meetings that don’t happen in a virtual environment Why we can’t duplicate face-to-face interaction through virtual events The challenge of sustaining long-distance business/personal relationships Why MMO games work to create community + how real estate might replicate that always-on culture When the real estate conference circuit will come back The impact of going virtual for MLS and association communities --Increased engagement and attendance --Eliminates serendipity of networking How new vendors might build trust in the absence of in-person interaction What we can do to gauge circuit response to physical events   Connect with Rob and Greg:   Rob’s Website Greg’s Website   Resources:   CMLS 2020 RESO 2020 Fall Conference Inman Connect 2020 2020 NAR Realtors Conference and Expo Cover Art Choices for Greg’s Book Charles Warnock VirBELA Second Life EverQuest Asheron’s Call MMORPG World of Warcraft Roblox Overwatch Discord Dungeons and Dragons Online ARMLS GoToMeeting Greg’s Draft Agenda for the 2020 MLS Proptech Symposium (with Rob's edits)   Our Sponsors:   Cloud Agent Suite Notorious VIP  

In this two-for-one podcast Denee Evans, CEO of Council of MLS joins Andy both before our world was turned upside down by COVID-19 and after. Includes tips for working at home and details on how CMLS elevates, promotes and supports MLSs nationwide. --- from Homes.com | Quality Leads, Faster Conversions. 08 – Denee Evans, CEO at Council of MLS | MLSs Making the Market Work

Chris Carrillo’s passion for MLS runs deep and is a key aspect of his success as the CEO of Metro MLS. It also drives Chris’ contributions to the industry, serving as the 2019 Chairperson of CMLS, a founding member of MLS Aligned, and a groundbreaking co-venture with... --- from Homes.com | Quality Leads, Faster Conversions. 05 – Chris Carrillo, CEO of Metro MLS | A Passion for Service

When you move fast, you break things.  Mark and the rest of  Remine’s co-founders are definitely shaking things up in the MLS space.  This conversation was recorded at the CMLS Conference in Salt Lake City on October 17th before their recent attempt to launch a new listing portal and Zillow’s decision to cut off access to their Zestimate API   As Mark says, in this wide ranging conversation, Remine’s attitude is to “go big or go home.” In February 2019, Remine raised $30M in private equity to grow its real estate data and analytics platform. A month later, the company announced a painful reduction in force as they shifted focus from upselling agents to partnering with the MLS. So, what prompted Remine’s pivot to an enterprise model? And how are they making the transition from predictive analytics to a next-level MLS system?  Mark Schacknies is the Cofounder and CEO of Remine, a software company that delivers real estate intelligence to more than 825,000 realtors in 40-plus MLS markets. On this episode of Listing Bits, Mark shares the Remine origin story, discussing how the founders started out as competing agents but came together around a shared fondness for data-driven strategies. Mark speaks to Remine’s pivot from predictive analytics tool to full MLS system, describing what inspired their transition to an enterprise model and how they are addressing their lack of experience in the realm of MLS conversion. Listen in for insight around how Remine’s philosophy differs from legacy incumbents like CoreLogic and learn what success looks like for Mark’s team on their journey to an IPO.   What’s Discussed:    How the founders of Remine started out as competitors Leveraging tech to transform real estate from within How the MLS governs the world’s most important asset class Why Redfin is at the top of Mark’s list of consumer portals Balancing privacy with data to empower decision-making What inspired Remine’s pivot to a full MLS platform What a day-in-the-life of Mark Schacknies looks like How Remine is addressing a lack of experience in MLS conversion The difference in philosophy between Remine and CoreLogic How Remine’s UI gives control to MLSs re: business rules What success looks like for Remine + the IPO timeline Resources:   CMLS 2019 The Third Wave: An Entrepreneur’s Vision of the Future by Alvin Toffler Cloud CMA Joe Kazzoun Connect with Mark:   Remine Mark on LinkedIn  

Talk of standards adoption at the recent RESO conference in Milwaukee sounded much like the conversation last year. And the year before that. And the year before that. So, how do we move beyond discussing the reasons for converting to Web API and begin to execute on that plan? What might vendors do to help facilitate a little less talk—and a lot more action?    Mike Wurzer is the President and CEO of FBS, a leading innovator of MLS technology and one of the most respected real estate software brands. Andy Woolley is the VP of Industry Development for Homes.com, one of the nation’s top online real estate destinations and provider of tech solutions for the industry. In addition, Mike is the Vice Chair of RESO, and Andy serves on the Board of CMLS. They join Greg live from RESO Conference 2018to discuss the need for a shift in the conversation from the WHY of RESO standards adoption to actual implementation.   Mike explains how the platinum data-dictionary certification stands in the way and addresses the need for education around how to access the credential manager. Andy describes what his team is doing to facilitate the transition to Web API, sharing his intention to publish a follow-up to the whitepaperdetailing the first few conversions. They also cover the complexities around efforts to do away with replication and their responsibilities as established vendors to promote Web API adoption. Listen in for insight around developing a plan for conversion and learn how trusted vendors might work together to help their customers move forward—faster.   What’s Discussed:    Greg’s frustration with the panel on standards at the RESO conference How MLS platinum data-dictionary certification is a barrier to adoption The need to move past a discussion of the WHY to implementation The need for education around how to access the credential manger What Andy’s team is doing to facilitate the shift to Web API Mike’s solution to the issue of renegotiating licensing agreements Andy’s case study of the first few conversions + the proposed follow-up The complexities around efforts to do away with replication Other methodologies better than Web API Software developers expect copy of data The responsibilities of established vendors in promoting API adoption Serve customers, push MLSs to make feeds available Implementation = fewer maintenance, data quality issues Mike’s insight on how the API makes lead data available in all apps Why every established vendor should have a plan for conversion The pros and cons of creating a deadline when RETS will stop working   Resources:   RESO Conference CoreLogic Trestle Spark API Black Knight Andy’s Case Study   Connect with Mike Wurzer:   FBS IDX Solutions Mike on LinkedIn RESO   Connect with Andy Woolley:   Homes.com Andy on LinkedIn CMLS

  1-2 cha-cha-cha. 3-4 cha-cha-cha. DOJ. NAR. FTC. MLS. There was a dance of sorts held in DC on Tuesday, June 5, when the Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission hosted a ‘workshop’ to discuss competition in residential real estate. But while NAR and industry players prepared for the fox trot, bringing their best arguments for maintaining the status quo around data access, the DOJ put on a little salsa music and shifted the discussion to commission transparency and coupling.   Rob and Greg are reversing roles this week, as Greg spins conspiracy theories regarding the government’s intentions and the potential consequences of its intervention in the real estate industry. They speak to organized real estate’s nothing-to-see-here approach to the discussion and review the range of views shared in the Developments in Real Estate Fee and Service Models panel.    Greg explains why decoupling would effectively end the MLS, and Rob covers the paper prepared by the National Bureau of Economic Research suggesting conflicts of interest due to coupling. They address who would benefit if buy-side commissions went away, how such changes would impact portals like Zillow, and the surprising number of industry players who support decoupling. Listen in to understand why Rob and Greg are calling for NAR or CMLS to move on this and start leading the dance to develop solutions around commission transparency.   What’s Discussed:    Organized real estate’s nothing-to-see-here stance at the DOJ/FTC workshop The Developments in Real Estate Fee and Service Models panel Reps from Realogy, Purplebricks, Glass House & TRELORA Greg’s take that the industry was caught off guard Prepared for data access and transparency Discussion of commissions, decoupling How decoupling cooperation and compensation would end the MLS The NBER paperon realtor commissions and conflicts of interest The theory that real estate commissions are high due to coupling Rob’s concern that the DOJ has already made up its mind Why the industry needs to move on commission transparency Why real estate is the only industry in which the seller pays the buyer’s rep How the potential changes might impact portals like Zillow Who would benefit if buy-side commissions went away The leadership opportunity for NAR, CMLS to address DOJ/FTC concerns The surprising number of people in support of commission decoupling Public response to the previous NAR budget transparency discussion   Resources: DOJ Residential Real Estate Workshop Rob’s Blog on the DOJ/FTC Workshop Brian Boero’s Buzz Saw Blog Post ‘Conflicts of Interest and the Realtor Commission Puzzle’   Our Sponsors The Red Dot Cloud Agent Suite   Connect with Rob and Greg: Rob’s Website Greg’s Website Email gregrobertson@gmail.com

The concept of the MLS creates a strange contradiction for brokers who are both competing with one another, yet sharing inventory by way of compensation and cooperation. In the middle of it all is CMLS, challenged with refereeing any acrimony between brokers and MLSs, promoting best practices, and supporting its membership of 203 MLS providers representing 1.2 million subscribers. At the helm is Denee Evans, the CEO of this premiere organization dedicated to leading the MLS industry in North America. Denee is a self-proclaimed small-town girl who grew up in Nevada, earning a degree in finance with a specialization in real estate from UNLV. She has always been involved in the industry in some form, doing flips, additions, as well as scrape and builds. Denee spent more than a decade in retail banking, where she dealt with home equity and mortgage loans. Prior to her role with CMLS, Denee was the Executive Director for EnergyFit Nevada, a nonprofit working to make homes more energy efficient. Through EnergyFit’s efforts to add sustainability information to the MLS, she learned about the opening for CMLS CEO and threw her hat into the ring. Today, Greg asks Denee the tough questions around how to address MLS’s that don’t comply with best practices, the best way for CMLS to support its members, and the organization’s partnership with NAR. Denee explains the ‘blessing and the curse’ of taking on the role of CEO as an outsider in the MLS industry and the benefit for consumers when organized real estate’s stakeholders collaborate. Listen in and learn about the CMLS initiative to create an interactive tool that would assist MLSs in developing a plan to implement best practices. What’s Discussed: How Denee’s background in banking informs her understanding of real estate The intense interview process she experienced to become CEO of CMLS The blessing and the curse of being an MLS outsider Denee’s take on the ‘us v. them’ mentality of industry stakeholders The dichotomy around brokers competing, yet sharing inventory The challenge for MLS execs to make diverse stakeholders happy The benefit for consumers when stakeholders cooperate Denee’s role as an advocate for MLS execs Denee’s contention that pain points exist in MLS’s of all sizes The ‘wall of shame’ identifying who hasn’t complied with CMLS best practices Greg’s proposal to offer free CMLS memberships to non-compliant MLSs CMLS’s plans to create a best practices interactive tool - Developed at last CMLS strategic planning session - Could grow into certification necessary for membership How CMLS should provide support to its members - Education v. leadership/advocacy - Study of industry initiatives to identify needs (e.g.: Upstream) The controversy around CMLS’s partnership with NAR - CMLS members assigned seats on NAR committees - Speak as national voice for CMLS   Resources: White Paper 7.42 2017 CMLS Best Practices Survey Brief   Connect with Denee Evans: The Council of Multiple Listing Services Denee on LinkedIn Denee on Twitter

Hang around the hotel bar at CMLS2017 long enough (we’re looking at you, Greg), and you will overhear conspiracy theories about ‘MLS of Choice’ somehow leading to a national MLS. The MLS community has long feared that NAR is looking to get into the MLS business, and the rhetoric ‘of choice’ raises alarm bells in the industry. What is NAR’s intent in changing MLS Policy Statements 7.42 and 7.43? Could RPR eventually evolve into a national MLS?    Today Rob and Greg dig into the ‘MLS of Choice’ debate with Sam DeBord and Jeff Young. Sam is a member of the MLS Technology and Emerging Issues Advisory Board that revised 7.42 and 7.43, and he will serve as the Vice-Chairman of MLS Policy for NAR next year. He also serves as the managing broker for Seattle Homes Group and VP of Strategic Growth for Coldwell Banker Danforth. Sam writes for a number of real estate news outlets, and he was named to SP200’s Top 20 Social Influencers and Inman’s Top 101 in Real Estate.   Jeff Young is the Chief of Operations for Realtors Property Resource (RPR), an NAR resource providing comprehensive data, powerful analytics and client-friendly reports for each of NAR’s constituencies. Jeff has been a REALTOR since 1996, serving in various NAR leadership positions including President of the Michigan Association of Realtors in 2008.    On this episode of Industry Relations, Greg, Rob, Sam and Jeff walk through the details of ‘MLS of Choice,’ discussing how the policy change will offer greater flexibility for brokers and agents in the MLS marketplace. They explore the MLS community’s skepticism around NAR’s intent, and whether there is any merit to the theory that this new policy might eventually lead to RPR becoming a national MLS. Listen in to understand the arguments for and against ‘MLS of Choice’–tin foil hat optional.   What’s Discussed:    The broker pain points that led to changes in MLS Policy Statements 7.42 and 7.43 The role of the MLS Technology and Emerging Issues Advisory Board The current jurisdictional rules around MLS dues How ‘MLS of Choice’ provides greater flexibility for brokers/agents in MLS marketplaces Why the previous policy was endorsed The arguments for and against ‘MLS of Choice’ Sam’s response to industry fear of NAR establishing a national MLS  The rumors that RPR could become the national MLS Jeff’s rebuttal concerning the rumors around RPR -  RPR contracts with MLSs prevent national MLS -  RPR depends on relationships with 661 of 694 current MLSs The confusion around ‘MLS of Choice’ as a naming convention The concept of which MLS not if MLS How the policy change will adversely affect MLSs that don’t provide value CMLS’s response to the ‘MLS of Choice’ policy change   Resources:   Sam at Coldwell Banker Danforth Realtors Property Resource ‘MLS of Choice’ Article in Inman News   Connect with Rob and Greg:   Rob’s Website  Greg’s Website

By 2009, mobile users could do a lot with smartphone apps—get directions, listen to music, take pictures, play games, even film a video. Aaron Kardell thought that you ought to be able to add ‘look for a house’ to the growing list of applications, and he founded HomeSpotter with the intention of doing just that.   Aaron grew up in rural Nebraska in a family of entrepreneurs. He started writing software programs in high school, and went on to earn a BS in computer science at Bethel University in St. Paul, Minnesota. He originated several businesses, including Altona Ed, an ed tech student information system that was acquired by Pearson School Systems in 2004. Aaron’s first experience with location-based iPhone applications came along in 2009 when he created iGarageSale. Very shortly thereafter, a broker contacted Aaron about building an app to complement the firm’s successful lead generating website. Aaron retained intellectual property rights, and Mobile Realty Apps was born. The company rebranded as HomeSpotter in 2015, and today they have offerings for MLSs, brokers and agents. On this episode, Aaron joins Greg live from CMLS in Austin to discuss HomeSpotter’s business model, the latest capabilities around mobile listing input, and HomeSpotter’s recent launch of Boost, an automated digital marketing system with trackable ROI.     What’s Discussed:    Aaron’s entrepreneurial family  How Aaron developed an interest in writing software programs   The genesis of HomeSpotter -  Created iGarageSale app -  Realtor asked to build app as consultant -  Retained intellectual property rights   The tactical mistakes HomeSpotter made early on Why Aaron chose to take the native mobile route How Aaron built a business in the 99¢ app store world -  Relied on SaaS model -  White label broker offering   HomeSpotter’s service offerings -  White label platform for brokers -  MLS member access on-the-go -  Boost (automated digital marketing with trackable ROI)   How high agent adoption in MLS markets led to the introduction of additional products The new capabilities around mobile listing input   -  Ability to edit listings (corrections, status changes) -  Update photo support capabilities How Aaron funded HomeSpotter -  Personal capital sustained first three years -  Angel investors in Minneapolis/St. Paul   The particulars of HomeSpotter’s newest offering, Boost -  Automated system -  For agents, teams, brokers -  Creates Facebook/Instagram ads for each new listing -  Targets prospective buyers and seller -  Helps average agent be more effective with marketing   Greg’s hesitance to get into the ‘advertising business’ Why agents are willing to spend more for advertising than tools The scalability of an app like Boost How HomeSpotter is upselling current subscribers to try Boost    -  Partnering with brokers, franchises, MLSs -  Email agent when listing added -  Brokers pay for initial week in some cases   How Aaron’s team generates ideas for new products Cloud CMA’s deal with Tom Ferry The pros and cons of a pay-per-listing pricing model The difference between HomeSpotter’s free and premium versions for MLS   Resources:   Cloud CMA’s Listing Presentation Kit by Tom Ferry Zillow’s Report on Trends in Residential Relocation   Connect with Aaron Kardell:   HomeSpotter Aaron on LinkedIn

Stakeholders from every facet of the real estate industry are calling for change. Problem is, that’s about the only thing they can agree on. So what happens when you put a broker, a vendor, a consultant, and NAR leadership in the same room to talk about all things MLS? A sometimes uncomfortable, yet revealing discussion around consolidation, data standardization, MLS fees, and the policymaking process. Stakeholders from every facet of the real estate industry are calling for change. Problem is, that’s about the only thing they can agree on. So what happens when you put a broker, a vendor, a consultant, and NAR leadership in the same room to talk about all things MLS? A sometimes uncomfortable, yet revealing discussion around consolidation, data standardization, MLS fees, and the policymaking process. Live from CMLS2017 in Austin, Rob and Greg are joined by James Dwiggins and Sam DeBord. James is the CEO of NextHome, a progressive real estate franchise with consumer-focused branding, technology and marketing. Prior to founding NextHome, James served as Chief Strategy Officer and VP of Realty World Northern California & Nevada. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, James’ impressive resume also includes VREO, a groundbreaking company he co-founded in 2000 to develop web applications for agents and brokers. Sam is both the managing broker for Seattle Homes Group and VP of Strategic Growth for Coldwell Banker Danforth. In addition, he is a member of the MLS Technology and Emerging Issues Advisory Board, and he will serve as the Vice-Chairman of MLS Policy for NAR next year. Sam writes for a number of real estate news outlets, and he was named to SP200’s Top 20 Social Influencers and Inman’s Top 101 in Real Estate. Listen in as Greg, Rob, James and Sam search for a little common ground when it comes to the future of the MLS. James shares his concern regarding a lack of non-REALTOR members in NAR decision-making bodies, and Sam offers his take on the future of the industry. They cover the political barriers that prevent true collaboration in the industry, how the not-for-profit mandate hinders MLS progress, and the value of vendor-inclusiveness.    What’s Discussed:  James’ message at the CMLS event in Austin The ongoing conversation among NAR, brokers and MLSs The continued consolidation of MLSs NAR’s focus on broker co-op The vast differences in how MLSs are run The challenges around a lack of data standardizationFactors that prevent a common data share The brokers’ contribution to the technical barriers  How a common MLS feed might affect membership How members of the MLS Technology and Emerging Issues Advisory Board are selected -Vetted by leadership -‘Standard of experience’James’ concern regarding a lack of non- REALTOR members NAR’s effort to bring in advisors/speakers from other industries to inform the advisory board Why having your heart in the right place doesn’t mean you are a qualified decision-maker The challenge of overcoming politics to engage in true industry collaborationNAR’s role in fostering cooperation How CMLS is setting the standard of vendor-inclusiveness Rob’s argument that the nonprofit mandate is the biggest issue hindering MLS progress The pros and cons of raising MLS fees The excessive fees vendors pay for access to IDX feeds The benefits of MLS consolidation: -Less overhead, more profitable for MLS -Broker costs decrease -Vendors can reinvest money saved The painful loss of jobs that would result from MLS efficiency James’ prediction that it will take outside forces to facilitate change The value generated by a very small number of agents -Zillow market cap at 7.6B -80,000 agents Sam’s take on the future of the real estate industry -MLS will be part of equation (dependent on data) -Fewer MLSs -Realtor will remain at center of transaction Greg’s A Few Good Men analogy Rob’s theory about the future MLS breakdown The top barriers to change:  -Politics -Lack of data standards Sam and James’ advice to MLS execs moving forward -Focus on broker priorities -Be flexible, innovative in delivering -Discuss pain points with vendors -Work with other MLSs on same process Resources: Seattle Homes Group NextHome MLS 2020 Agenda CMLS 2017 Connect with Rob and Greg:   Rob’s Website  Greg’s Website 

The Upstream Pivot with FBS CEO Michael Wurzer I had a chance to sit down with Mike Wurzer again at NAR Midyear to discuss the recent announcement about Upstream, well not really doing upstream anymore.  This was recorded before NAR announced the details to their additional funding.  More on that in a later blog post. The first step of problem-solving is to assign blame. Right?   That seems to be part of Upstream’s tactics in explaining their delayed progress at NAR’s May Legislative Meeting in DC. They succeeded in raising the heartrate of today’s guest – by implying that a lack of cooperation from vendors is to blame for the snail’s pace of the project. Upstream also made a big announcement regarding what they term as a pivot, but may be more appropriately called a 180.   Michael Wurzer is the President and CEO of FBS, an employee-owned company committed to exceeding customer expectations. Their signature product, Flexmls, is a standards-driven technology platform connecting real estate professionals to their customers with collaboration tools that deliver timely and accurate information. FBS products serve 185 organizations and 2,000-plus agents in the real estate sector.   Under Wurzer’s leadership for the past 20 years, FBS has worked to constantly evolve and embrace change. They were among the first to build a web-based system, striking a balance between the stability of being an established company and creating a culture of innovation. Today he examines the Upstream pivot in detail, discussing how the Upstream messaging has evolved over time, the pain points the initiative was working to address, and the need to foster collaboration among industry players.   What’s Discussed:    The major players in the Upstream initiative How the Upstream messaging has evolved over time The major Upstream pivot announced at NAR’s Legislative Meetings How the pivot was influenced by feedback from experienced MLS professionals Greg’s take on the fundamental change in premise of the Upstream initiative The pain points the Upstream project was working to address Ability to sync listings Integration with third party products The buy-in for Upstream from big brands Upstream’s explanation for its delayed progress The need to foster collaboration among industry players rather than assigning blame All focused on solving broker problems The CMLS campaign to highlight the value of the MLS The controversy over RPR’s team of developers The confusion re: the meaning of a ‘live demo’ The ability to enter a listing from third-party system as a RESO objective The evolution of technology in the real estate software space ‘We’re building the airplane as we’re flying it’ Success stories in MLS system consolidation The beauty of competition in shaping market dynamics Zillow’s next steps in light of the Upstream pivot The need for clarity of communication re: syndication What the Upstream pivot means for AMP Wurzer’s prediction of what’s next in real estate tech innovation Upstream as ‘another option’ rather than a revolution   Resources:   Realtor Magazine Article   “Upstream Returns to Earth” by Matt Cohen   Connect with Michael Wurzer:   Email mwurzer@flexmls.com Twitter Blog  

Rebecca Jensen is very busy.  She's the President and CEO of Midwest Real Estate Data LLC (MRED), the real estate data distributor for the greater Chicago area. She also serves on the boards of Broker Public Portal (BPP), a national consumer-facing property search experience powered by MLS data, and the Council of Multiple Listing Services (CMLS), the trade association dedicated to strengthening the MLS industry. Jensen began her career working the tech support line for what is now UtahRealEstate.com. She rose through the ranks by creating her own positions in the small company, eventually serving as CEO at the age of 29. Under her leadership, the company developed a new in-house MLS platform, including an integrated public-facing website and mobile apps. Jensen also served a full term of six years on the board of the Real Estate Standards Organization (RESO), acting as Board Chair from 2011 to 2015. During her tenure, the organization went from being a project within the NAR to a standalone nonprofit with support across the industry. On this episode of the podcast, she shares her journey from tech support to CEO. Click and listen to find out what drives Jensen, her take on the role of organizations like RESO, COVE and CMLS, and the direction of the MLS industry. What’s Discussed: How implementing best practices from other fields can enhance your business  -  Jensen applied principles of Agile product development to identify priorities How “creating the opportunity to say no” helped Jensen land her gig at MRED The restructuring of RESO during Jensen’s tenure on the board Jensen’s aspirations regarding the direction of CMLS Cultivate think tank atmosphere to generate ideas Add policy creation arm to implement solutions What drives Jensen to achieve The promise of big data in real estate tech Jensen is intrigued by a remine product that correlates data to drive better business decisions Jensen’s take on the future of MLS and real estate tech Integrated software and business entities Streamlined electronic transactions The non-traditional partnership between BPP and Homesnap Resources:   Remine Website   Connect with Rebecca Jensen:   MRED Website