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ealty ONE Group, a global brokerage with over 20,000 real estate agents, has given its Phoenix-area agents the option to leave the National Association of Realtors (NAR) while retaining access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Starting January 1, 2025, agents at eight Phoenix locations can join Realty ONE Group AZ, a newly created subsidiary that allows them to disaffiliate with NAR and sign up for Phoenix Realtors' MLS Choice program. This move follows a costly settlement and rule changes implemented by NAR in 2024.

    MLS Choice is a lower-cost membership program announced by Phoenix Realtors in November, which enables brokers to access the MLS and legal forms without joining a Realtor association. Realty ONE Group's decision to offer this option reflects its commitment to giving agents choice and flexibility in their business operations. "Choice and opportunity will always be number ONE for us," said Kuba Jewgieniew, founder and CEO of Realty ONE Group. Pat Kelly, president of brokerage operations, added that the company wants its agents to have a choice and know they always have a home with them, regardless of whether they affiliate with NAR.