A Guide to Multiple Listing Services
Hiring a real estate agent to help sell a property is faster and more efficient than handling the sale on your own as a property owner. One of the most important factors is known as the multiple listing service, or MLS. Professional realtors across the United States have access to the MLS, a resource that’s unavailable to the general public, even if you’re actively trying to sell your home.
What Is the MLS?
First, let’s establish that there isn’t just one listing service available to real estate brokers. Rather, there are many listing services that can be accessed by professionals in the real estate business.
Multiple listing services are large, online databases where brokers can list and share information about properties. This service makes it far easier for agents to connect buyers to sellers, with a transaction that’s mutually beneficial to everyone involved.
The MLS features key information about for-sale properties, which includes detailed descriptions, high-quality photographs, and more. You’ll also be able to find certain confidential documents, including Seller’s Disclosures. Because the MLS is updated on such a frequent basis (regularly throughout the day), it’s possible for agents to quickly discover new listings, even if they’ve just been posted.
Thanks to the MLS, buyers have an even larger database of properties from which to choose. Additionally, their agent will be able to keep them up-to-date on all the available properties, so they don’t need to worry about missing out on their dream home. Some properties may appear on the MLS that aren’t discoverable on resources accessible to the general public.
What Do MLS Listings Include?
Depending on the listing and the broker in charge of it, you can expect to see different pieces of information about the property. That being said, some of the most common information you’ll find in an MLS listing is:
- How large the property is
- How old the property is
- How many bathrooms and bedrooms are found in the home
- High-quality photos of the home’s exterior and interior
- Details about any standout or unique features
Want to learn more about multiple listing services, and why it’s so important to hire a real estate agent when selling your home? Contact us today for support.
