The “natural language” buzzwords have been resurfacing regularly for at least the last 20 years or more in the database community. I’m with Michael on that issue.

As a database architect, I’m a big proponent of consistent data, as well as a single source.

I just checked and we have access to 8 different MLS systems that all use FlexMLS in our region in northeastern PA. This gives us a unique ability to work on making data more consistent and maybe eventually using the same property ID to identify the same property even when it’s listed in different MLS systems.

I just joined the MLS Committee with Lisa and I know that these matters are getting addressed and are not trivial. I’m going to work as hard as I can on this issue where it makes business sense.

For example, there are some communities where we overlap with an adjoining MLS yet we have to enter the information in both systems separately. As a database person, that makes no sense at all. However, I’m not sure how we could merge into a single MLS because their rules are SO different from ours.

All bets are off with our neighbors to the south who use the other system mentioned above. I too thought it was a cool MLS system until I looked closely and found that it was based on a way out of date version of the software, which is why it only works in IE, not even Firefox.

I used to give it ALL away. The result was no listings and many a successful FSBO accomplished through my good offices. The FSBO wouldn’t have worked without me but I came away with nothing. Been there, done that.

I give away market reports, neighborhood information and the like. Since our area is very diverse and a half a block can be world apart, this information is of significant value. Anything more – you show me yours and I’ll show you mine. Want listings? SIGN UP! Want to know EVERYTHING about how I will go about selling your home? Here’s a contract!

Its most unfortunate that I feel I have to operate this way. But I’ve had some pretty bad experiences over the past couple of years. Heck I’ve even had people pump me so their cousin who just got a license could list their house. I know one agent friend who staged the whole home, brought in repair people, city officials to legalize a deck, you name it she did it. Then the seller told her “Thank you so much, but Sally Jones is my usual REALTOR. She doesn’t do that much, so thank you for your help – but she can take over now and list the house.”

Happens all too often….

Like Jonathan said, they can’t compete with a good agent/broker website for data and views.

A National MLS – the idea has been tossed about for a while and still, I don’t see the value. It may help the consumer compare areas or agents who are licensed in two or more states, but the local knowledge is found at a local level.

Monica: I agree with all of your points. Yes, some of these ideas have been around for awhile but the taste for change has finally taken hold, I think. I am excited by the possibilities!

Ruthmarie: I am fortunate to not have issues like you do with my local MLS but I have heard complaints like yours before. There are great MLS vendors out there, your Board just needs to find them.

Matthew: Thanks for the compliment but I cannot take credit for the idea. This post is a summary of discussions by the panels at Inman Real Estate Connect. I just took notes and made big stars on the page when something sounded brilliant! I should have recorded it so I could give credit where it is due.

Jonathan: I’m not convinced about Nationalization but Regionalization is something being talked about in my area. We have a bunch of small boards here that have begun a data-sharing arrangement, but I can see how something more solidified could have benefits. It’s not for everyone, which is why I said the conversations have to take place at the local level.