Frequently Asked Questions

What is OpenMLS?
OpenMLS is a neutral, open platform built on top of the Internet to allow accredited Registrars to offer public MLS services.

What are Registrars?
Registrars are organizations which have been accredited by the GR8C to join and participate in the OpenMLS Network. Registrars allow registrants to register or list their listing with their MLS online.

Who are Registrants?
Registrants are online users who wish to sell and advertise their listing sellers to find and contact them.

Can only Realtors list with an accredited Registrar?
Not only can Realtors list listings with OpenMLS, but also everyone else, too! Accredited Registrars are able to accept listings from fsbo's, consultants, real estate developers, and others.

What is the Registry?
The Registry is the centralized database of all listings. Only Accredited Registrars can communicate directly with the Registry.

Is OpenMLS affiliated with the National Association of Realtors (NAR)?
No it is not. OpenMLS is administered by the Global Real Estate And Technology Consortium, a non-profit science organization. The NAR oversees separate, closed MLS's which only Realtors can access.

What is the purpose of the GR8C?
The GR8C is the global authority for OpenMLS. It oversees official MLS Number distribution to Accredited Registrars, network operations between the Registry and Registrars, standardizing ports and protocols for the Registrars and Registrants, and various related network operations.

I have already listed my property with a Realtor, can I still register my property with an Accredited OpenMLS Registrar?
Yes you can. Once it is registered on OpenMLS, everyone will have access to the listing information via a unique MLS Number URL for example: mlsn://1.1.1@32801.840.

I am a licensed real estate salesperson, is there an association fee to join OpenMLS?
No, there are no membership dues to access, search, browse, register, or list your listings with an Accredited Registrar.

When will the first Accredited OpenMLS Registrar be available?
Our goal is for Spring 2011. We currently working a test environment for potential Registrars to test their applications communicatign with the Registry.

What will it cost to register my listing with a Registrar?
Listing prices will be decided by each individual Accredited Registrar.

I am interested in becoming an Accredited Registrar. How can learn more about becoming one?
We welcome organizations not only in the United States but in other countries, too. Please visit our contact form and submit it to us.