MLS or “multiple listing service” means that if you see the symbol for MLS listings in Houston on an ad for a home for sale, it means that it is listed by a real estate agent in a shared listing of data about homes for sale. Realtors and other professionals are authorized to access the MLS to get info on a home such as the address, square footage, number of bedrooms and baths, school district, financing, etc. This means that whoever the listing agent is, your agent can obtain all the pertinent information on the property you are interested in through the MLS listing.
MLS Listings are Online for Easy Real Estate Agent Access
While MLS listings Houston realtors once used were only printed in huge books, it is now online for easy access and certainly more up to date. The public is not able to get access to MLS listings, but your realty agent will be happy to access it so they can give you the info you need on a home you are interested in.
Advantages of MLS Listings Include Lower Fees
Some listings under MLS have a lower fee for the selling commission, which is a good deal for the buyers, but not so much for the agent. However, an agent is not allowed legally to refuse to show MLS listings in Houston if a potential buyer wishes information on such a home.
MLS is seen by the Department of Justice as a viable option to save a buyer money, though some realtors believe it is risky for their business because a seller often looks for assistance from a buyer’s agent.
MLS Listings Searches Can Be Customized
If you get your realtor to set up an MLS Listings Houston search, another advantage is that it can be customized. This can include filters of such things like listing price reductions, zip code location, specific streets or subdivisions, price range, number of bedrooms or baths, square footage, types of amenities, etc. It all depends on your needs.
All in all, it is up to the buyer if they want to deal in the MLS listings Houston system of narrowing down their choices to buy a home in the Houston area.
