T
he Austin-based multiple listing service, Unlock MLS, is making a significant change starting June 1. The CEO, Emily Chenevert, emphasizes that the decision to allow non-Realtors to subscribe to the MLS is about giving users choice and flexibility in their business operations. This shift aligns with a growing trend among MLSs, as 26% of those surveyed by T3 Sixty are considering or have already opened access to non-Realtors.

    Unlock MLS has 20,000 subscribers and will no longer require them to be Realtors. The price for both Realtor and non-Realtor subscribers will remain the same. This change is part of a deliberate process by the Austin Board of Realtors to ensure its business entities operate independently. Chenevert believes that association membership benefits from choice, as members can choose to participate in advocacy work and uphold ethics.

    This move has been years in the making for Unlock MLS and its owner, the Austin Board of Realtors. While it may lead to some agents choosing not to join the association, Chenevert is optimistic about the benefits of association membership. The decision also reflects a growing trend among MLSs to offer more flexibility and choice to their subscribers.