Online House Hunting

Is there a service (like MLS) that Realtors will use for listings?

It seems that not all Realtors or Brokers use the Multiple Listing Service for their clients. Sometimes, I have to log directly into a website to get to a property and sometimes the MLS number is there; sometimes not. Some websites I use that use the MLS database system will not pull up some properties, but if I directly key in the MLS #, then the property will show up. Is there only MLS, or are there other major Real Estate databases being used out there? I'm not talking the "for sale by owner" type. I'm looking for land lots and acreage, and some properties just do not show up unless I do some search into the tax records for ownership, and try to aquire info that way. Thank you for your insite! 072307 8:45

Public Comments

1. mls.com...free after you give them your email address. good luck
2. We have two MLS here in Atlanta, so a listing may include the listing from FMLS, which would have a different number than the MLS. Your area may have more than one MLS. You also could be looking at sold properties.
3. Kim- Most realtors use a local or regional MLS system, depending upon the size of the community. When inputted they will upload to http://www.realtor.com Not all local MLS will upload land its dependent upon the local MLS rules. In larger cities there may be several MLS systems such as the Bay Area which one can belong to 3-4 systems. There is discussion in CA to have a state wide system. My belief is a MLS is good tool to expose properties to the consumer and the more the better. On the other side is some agent or sellers will opt out in not placing a listing on MLS. Thak you for your question and hope this helps.
4. As the previous Answerer stated, there are regional MLS's in any given area... In my area, I subscribe to two different ones. If a broker or their respective agent does not enter the property into their local MLS, then they are doing a dis-service to their clients. Cooperating brokers and their agents enter into an "IDX" agreement, which is the sharing of all listings so that one broker may display the other brokers' listing and vice versa. Those companies which do not subscribe to that notion (i.e. smaller/independent companies) do not share in the benefits that those who do. Most of today's buyers are on the internet looking for properties, prior to engaging the help of a REALTOR... and we all understand that! But, if you are having trouble finding what you seek, it costs you nothing to enlist the aid of an Agent sooner rather than later. If you have any questions, please let me know. Otherwise, good luck in your search!!