San Diego Real Estate News and Market Conditions

If you’ve done any amount of home or condo searching, you probably see the letters MLS thrown around a lot. Realtor websites use phrases like “officially registered with the MLS” and “The latest MLS listings”.

But what does that all mean?

It’s a little complicated

The MLS is a singular concept, but there’s actually hundreds of MLSs around the world that oversee different cities, states, countries, etc. They often have different rules and regulations, but the idea remains the same.

An MLS (or Multiple Listing Service) is a network of information and services that allows brokers to offer contracts, compensation, and cooperation to other real estate professionals. It is the place where houses and other properties are listing with their full information as soon as they’re available.

In other words, it is the very lifeblood of the real estate world.

Can I see it?

Unless you’re a licensed realtor or broker, you cannot get access to an actual MLS systems. These are exclusive to industry professionals.

What if a website offers full MLS listings?

Today’s realty websites often harness the power of the MLS, allowing visitors to get much closer to full access than the once could.  However, it’s not quite the same. The MLS carries both the most detailed and the most current information available. More advanced systems (like the one we use) can get very current listings, letting the customer do a little window shopping.

Can I put my own home on the MLS?

While a homeowner is fully capable of selling their own home, they’re not able to put it on the MLS without a broker’s involvement, which is just one reason why selling your own home can prove difficult.

How can I harness the full power of the MLS in my area?

To make the MLS work for you, you’ll need a licensed realtor by your side. But don’t just settle for the first realtor you see. Choose one that’s experienced in the area you’re looking at.

If you’re looking at San Diego homes for sale, contact us today at Metro San Diego Realty. We have the industry knowledge, a customer-first attitude, and of course, full MLS access.