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What is the MLS or Multiple Listing Service?

Answer:
The MLS or Multiple Listing Service is a searchable

database of property listings. There are many MLS systems, each is privately run, there is no Government or State run MLS systems and each system has it's listing members and it's set boundaries.

The MLS is essentially to help buyers find homes for sale in a more efficient manner. Before the Internet, browsing homes for sale was a timely choir. You would tell your Buyers Agent what features your seeking in your new home, they would then set up the showings. Today, with the Internet and the MLS you can browse the listings, view photos, features and characteristics to further qualify your choices thus saving a ton of time.

Listing a home for sale in the MLS usually requires membership and membership is usually designated to licensed real estate agents. There are services that a FSBO seller can purchase to have their listing published into the MLS but again it depends on the MLS system.

If you are using a Realtor to sell your home (a Sellers Agent ) they will most likely automatically list your property in the MLS. It can't hurt to ask but the majority of the time the listing service is part of the contract you sign with your Sellers Agent.