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AR’s Executive Committee approved 18 new provisions for its Multiple Listing Service (MLS) Handbook, effective January 2026, after a comprehensive risk review. The updates were ratified during the NAR NXT event in Houston (Nov 14‑16). Earlier this year, NAR hired a national law firm to audit its MLS policies. President Kevin Sears then convened a Presidential Advisory Group (PAG) of MLS leaders, brokers, association executives and industry partners to evaluate the findings and draft recommendations. The PAG’s proposals were vetted by the MLS Technology & Emerging Issues Advisory Board and the Multiple Listing Issues & Policies Committee before the Executive Committee vote.

    The revisions eliminate obsolete enforcement practices, streamline administrative and operational rules, and reinforce local discretion—such as non‑member MLS access. “These changes modernize NAR’s policies and align them with how real estate professionals operate today,” Sears said, thanking PAG members for their input. This marks the most comprehensive handbook update in two decades and exemplifies NAR’s ongoing effort to assess and mitigate legal risks. Sears added that NAR will continue to review and adjust policies transparently and promptly to meet evolving member and industry needs.