What is MLS & How Does It Work?

Multiple Listing Service (MLS) works as a clearinghouse through which more than 500 real estate firms exchange information on homes that they have listed for sale. It assures home sellers of the widest possible exposure to prospective buyers. It gives homebuyers the greatest possible selection to choose from.

Once your property is listed for sale in the Multiple Listing Service, a description of your property, along with a photo is immediately sent to the MLS office. Here it is entered into a computer database and quickly made available to all other MLS members in daily reports, bi-weekly listing books, and through the office computers. Your property (with photo) is also displayed on our website, which will expose it to the broadest scope of potential buyers possible. You are not only served personally by your own REALTOR®, but almost 3,000 real estate associates who are prepared to suggest your home to prospective buyers.

Are all real estate brokers members of MLS?

Indeed not! The great majority of Rhode Island area brokers belong to MLS, but not all of them participate in this valuable service. If you do not see the MLS service mark on display, be sure to ask if this important service is provided.

Unlike many real estate agents who are simply licensed by the state to do business, all MLS member brokers are REALTOR®s who have taken additional steps to become members of the local Board of REALTOR®s and have agreed to act under and adhere to a strict Code of Ethics. this membership obligates them to be fair to all parties involved in a transaction, be it buyer, seller, or cooperating agent. Be sure your real estate agent is a REALTOR® .