How to get MLS access

Question

Hi

How does one get MLS access? I had a realtor set up a search with some parameters but i’d like to be able to go in and set up searches with different criteria and not have to go through an agent for that.

Is that possible?

Marcus Auerbach · Answer

MLS systems are regional and run on different software plattforms. Our Milwaukee MLS has a new client portal with an improved mobile version that allows you to set up your own searches.

We tested it for a while and then went back to the old platform, which has a clunky user interface, only works on desktop and you can not set up your own searches. But it has the most in depth data and that's what our investor clients preferred so I asked MLS to switch us back.

However, there is a lot that can be done. I have some clients set up on multiple searches. You can give access to "delayed" and also to "sold" or any other status. You can also enable access to documents like RECR - most agents don't seem to know how to do that, maybe some want to hold that back, but I think that is silly.

If you set up the searches right you get 90% of the benefits of full agent access to MLS.

Joshua Janus · Answer

In most cases you would need to be licensed in order to access the MLS as you need to become a REALTOR.

Charles Renn · Answer

Hey @Ryan Hasan, in order to have access to the MLS you'll also need to join one of the local real estate boards and pay the dues. There are a number of them in the LA area. CLAW, CRMLS, etc.

Hope this helps!

Dwayne Poster · Answer

I use several Realtors from different markets to feed me MLS data. For them it's a marketing tool. If you are not asking them, it's unlikely they consider you a real player. I dont always buy and sell, but I am always keeping an eye on the market, and the Realtors I work with a more than happy to use data as a way to stay in contact.

Eliott Elias · Answer

Why not just set up that search on Zillow? The MLS doesn't have properties that any online inventory site doesn't have. The biggest plus to the MLS (depending on your state) is looking at comps.

Jonathan Oh · Answer

If you’re just looking for homes on market Redfin/Zillow should be fine. The platform is powered by mls.

David Avetisyan · Answer

You can obtain access as a licensed broker. It’ll run you somewhere to the tune of about 1500-1800 dollars a year. You may be better off just utilizing the search portals online. It may not provide you seller notes, expired listing or other information, but these are things you may not need anyway.

To your success!

Gregory Chadwell · Answer

Try www.realtor.com that feed is from the NAR and local Mls's

Zachary Inman · Answer

It's honestly best to leverage a realtor to set up the searches for you. It's good for them because they have a chance at your business, good for you because you get access to the MLS feed.

Ty Ash · Answer

Hi @Ryan Hasan,

Totally understand you want to do some research and don't want to bug the agent you've chosen to work with. I'd personally like my clients to reach out so that I know that they are serious and continuing to take the next step in the process over time so that I can make sure to assist them along the way.

However, if you'd like to be more self sufficient and are trying to run some numbers in an area you've identified, try this. Go to any free real estate listing site like Zillow. Search the neighborhoods that you'd like to invest in. Change the filters to Sold, Property Type you're looking to invest in (single or multi for example), and then update the "Sold in Last" in the more section to 90 days. This will give you some really good data to explore:

1) What the investments you're looking at are actually selling for vs looking current inventory that's being listed and going well above asking in less than a week in most markets. This gives you a more realistic purchase price.

2) How many of those properties sold in the last 3 months. This is how many opportunities you can expect to have in the next 3 months in that neighborhood within your criteria. This is your "funnel" that gets mentioned in the podcast all the time.

Take a look at your target area and let me know your thoughts. Is your criteria realistic or should you move your focus elsewhere? Did your agent arm you with this kind of information to set your expectations? Best of luck and hope to hear back on how you're investment journey progresses!

How to get MLS access

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