MyStateMLS leader Dawn Pfaff on the future of MLSs
Dec 18, 2023
auto_awesome
Dawn Pfaff, President of MyStateMLS, discusses the future of MLSs and the mistakes agents make in protecting their data. She explores the value of MLSs, buyer broker compensation lawsuits, and the possibility of MLSs disassociating from NIR. Pfaff reflects on going nationwide, creating a technology vault, and supporting agents through free education.
Clear cooperation is not required on My State MLS, but brokers must follow state laws and honor commitments made to clients.
Buyer's agents play a vital role in real estate transactions, providing expertise and guidance, especially for inexperienced buyers.
Deep dives
My State MLS: Nationwide MLS with Different Rules
My State MLS is a nationwide MLS that allows listing property anywhere a broker is licensed. Unlike other MLSs, it is not affiliated with any realtor board and has different rules. While clear cooperation is not required, following state laws and honoring commitments made to clients is mandatory. The CEO of My State MLS, Dawn Fath, founded the MLS because she was frustrated with the system in New York and its high costs. She also highlighted the importance of representation for buyers, even for experienced individuals. My State MLS operates its own software, allowing brokers to maintain control and copyright of their data.
Buyers Agents' Importance in Real Estate Transactions
Dawn Fath emphasized the vital role of buyers' agents in real estate transactions. She believes that buyers are willing to pay for the assistance of a buyer's agent during the complex and high-stakes process of purchasing a home. Fath mentioned that being unfamiliar with the laws and processes in a new state prompted her to seek representation in Florida, even with her extensive experience as a broker. She stated that inexperienced buyers especially need the guidance of a buyer's agent to navigate the various aspects of the transaction, such as applying for an HOA or negotiating repairs. Fath also stressed the importance of buyer's agents in bringing expertise and ensuring smooth transactions.
Data Ownership and Copyright Awareness for Brokers
A key topic discussed in the podcast episode was the ownership and copyright of data in the real estate industry. Fath expressed her passion for brokers owning their data and not relinquishing the copyright to MLSs. She cautioned brokers against ticking a box that gives the MLS copyright ownership, as it can potentially lead to the sale of the data in certain situations. Fath recommended that brokers verify who owns their data and take steps to regain their copyright if required. She also highlighted the importance of brokers owning the copyright of listing photos and advised brokers to work with photographers who provide them with copyright ownership. Fath suggested that brokers prioritize protecting their data and copyright by utilizing technology solutions that give them control over their listings.
Believe it or not, there will be winners when it comes to the commission lawsuit outcomes. That's the crux of our conversation with Dawn Pfaff, president of MyStateMLS, a nationwide MLS that is not affiliated with any Realtor board. Pfaff shares her opinions on the value of the MLS (Realtor affiliated or not), what the future might look like and the mistakes many brokers and agents make when it comes to protecting their data.
The RealTrending podcast features the brightest minds in real estate. Every week, brokerage leaders, top agents, team leaders, and industry experts share their success secrets, trends, and lessons learned navigating this ever-changing industry. Hosted by Tracey Velt and produced by Elissa Branch.