CALMLS CHOOSES LEADER FOR CALIFORNIA STATEWIDE MLS
INDUSTRY NEWS, REAL ESTATE PRACTICE, TIPS FOR BUYERS, TIPS FOR SELLERS
August 20th, 2008
Last week, the California Association of Realtors (CAR) announced that Scott Kucirek will lead the development and implementation of a statewide MLS. “The multiple-listing service is the bedrock of real estate on which so many of the other important services that REALTORS provide rests”,Kucirek said. He went to speak to the diversity of California and the need for a reliable and flexible system that will allow them access to the information they need in a timely and efficient manner.
The 17-member CALMLS board is composed of REALTORS that represent a diverse range of real estate brokers, including sole proprietors to mega real estate conglomerates. CALMLS envisions a system that will allow agents to not only access data in their local market are, but anywhere in the state. Currently, some agents must join several MLS’s to receive data on all properties in their market area. This will solve that problem along with giving agents the ability to gather information on property anywhere in the state. After all, the real estate license in California allows you to work anywhere in the state.
Sixty-six local REALTOR associations and three regional MLS’s have already tendered non-binding letters of intent to participate once the system is up and running. More than 2/3rds of the agents in California have indicated their support in writing and many more are expected to join in once they see what CALMLS is and what the cost will be. Some of the non-participants already formed regional MLS’s to address the issues that precipitated the formation of CALMLS. They may dump their system if the CALMLS product is superior.
The advantage I see for sellers is more exposure of their property. Here in Redding, we have 800-900 REALTORS that can access the listing data. Imagine if 125,000+ agents could access that data. I have to believe more exposure will lead to more sales. Buyers can meet with their favorite agent and receive information on any property listed anywhere in the state. It is unlikely the agent will attempt to sell in an area they are unfamiliar with, but a referral could always be made to an agent in that area.
CALMLS should announce in the next several weeks what the technology elements will be comprised of and a roll-out schedule for the finished product. Most REALTORS across the state embrace the concept of a statewide MLS after years of discussions and study. I make it a point to stay in tune with changes in the industry to deliver cutting edge service to all my clientele. If I can be of service for any real estate need, please contact me:
530-224-6767 or 530-941-7492
BRAD GARBUTT
REALTOR/BROKER
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS GMAC
QUARTER CENTURY LOCAL REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE
