T
he Phoenix REALTORS association has reached an agreement with the National Association of REALTORS (NAR) to resolve a dispute over its non-REALTOR membership option. The local association will continue to sell certain products to non-members, but must comply with NAR's Constitution and Bylaws.

    The disagreement centered on concerns that the Phoenix REALTORS' offering created a new membership category outside of the REALTOR organization, potentially causing confusion for consumers and weakening the REALTOR brand. Under the agreement, Phoenix REALTORS has eliminated its "MLS Choice" option but will continue to offer non-member MLS access with certain products.

    NAR had raised concerns that the Phoenix REALTORS' offering was not in compliance with NAR's governing documents, which require real estate professionals who join a local association to also join the state and national association. This three-way agreement streamlines adherence and accountability on all levels, creating alignment around member communications, benefits, and advocacy efforts.

    As part of the agreement, Phoenix REALTORS has taken steps to come back into compliance with NAR's Constitution and Bylaws. NAR stated that its non-REALTOR MLS offering is not a membership in the REALTOR organization and does not grant access to local, state or national REALTOR associations or benefits.

    NAR has also issued guidelines for state and local associations on providing products and services to non-members, clarifying what constitutes compliance with NAR's Constitution and Bylaws. The guidelines emphasize that non-member products and services may not be marketed as a membership, made available in exchange for annual dues, or associated with membership rather than MLS participation.

    The agreement allows Phoenix REALTORS to continue offering certain products to non-members while maintaining its commitment to the REALTOR brand and the three-way agreement.