It's a story we have heard countless times. A friend or client calls you up about a listing they saw online. I already know what you are thinking, "I bet this one is under contract." You look it up, and sure enough, under contract. Your friend is disappointed but guess what? It's a great reason to guide them to the MLS! 

 

Multiple Listing Services (MLSs) are independent broker marketplaces that focus exclusively on residential real estate in local real estate markets. It is the #1 source for up-to-date home listings in your area. And it's one of the best tools REALTORS® have for finding you the best homes available in your market. 

 

There's often a lag between when a house goes on the market and when the 3rd party gets it onto their site. If an agent is doing well, they may not sign up for the 3rd party's listing services. This means that home will NEVER be listed outside the MLS. 

3rd party sites also aren't as accurate in their information. Oftentimes, listings that are already under contract will show as "active" on 3rd party sites in order for these sites to obtain buyers leads which are often sold to other Homes and may also not be "publicly" listed due to sensitive situations such as a divorce or death in the family. 

Sellers may ask their agent to sell the home as an "off-market deal." Your REALTOR® can find this home through their own personal network, which is why it pays to work with a local REALTOR®. 

 

Browsing online is fun, but if you're ready to get serious about your home search, gaining access to the MLS is the best, most accurate way to find the property you want. And the best way to access the MLS is through a REALTOR®! 

 

Marc Hedlund, FMR Director.