Unacceptable Use Cases of MLS® Data For Vendors

MLS® data is specifically authorized for use by its members within their real estate businesses. While vendors may develop products or services that utilize MLS® data for the benefit of these members, the data can not be integrated as a core component of the vendor's primary business or services. Essentially, vendors are permitted to support member activities with MLS® data, but cannot use this data as a central element of their own business operations.

To better understand this, it's important to consider the perspective of the MLS® and its members:

• The MLS® exists to offer valuable data that empowers its members—real estate agents, brokers, and their offices. They depend on this exclusive data to gain a competitive edge.
• If vendors could freely integrate MLS® data as a core part of their business operations or share it with non-members, it would dilute the value of MLS® membership, which members pay to access.
• MLS® organizations need to maintain strong trust relationships with their members. They enforce these rules to protect members from unauthorized data use and potential business competition.

Unacceptable Use Cases

General Marketplaces:

A vendor cannot create a general-purpose real estate marketplace using MLS® data.

Direct Consumer Access:

Vendors shouldn't provide public-facing applications that offer detailed property information from MLS® data as a core feature. This would breach the agreement because it effectively becomes a competing service.

Data Services For Non-Members:

Vendors cannot distribute data, reports, analyses, or insights generated from MLS® data to entities outside of the MLS® membership base. For instance, providing detailed market reports to financial institutions or other third parties without MLS® membership would breach these guidelines.

Key Takeaway

The overarching principle is that vendors must support MLS® members in their specific business activities while ensuring the use of MLS® data does not directly compete with the services offered by the MLS® or undermine its business model. Members should retain control over how this data is shared and leveraged within the industry.

Updated on: 16/07/2025