Major MLS inks agreement to tap international market
The Houston Association of Realtors formed a data share partnership with the largest Latin American MLS, giving members access to listings across 22 countries.
Data sharing among multiple listing services is becoming increasingly popular, and one large association is taking it a step further by going international.
HAR expands its horizons: The Houston Association of Realtors announced that it has reached a data share agreement with Omni Multiple Listing Service, which it said is the largest MLS in Central and South America.
In a news release, the association said the agreement will allow HAR's 48,000 subscribers to access more than 60,000 listings across Mexico and 21 countries. Omni MLS members will also be able to access all HAR listings. According to its website, Omni serves more than 100,000 real estate professionals throughout Latin America.
"We are opening up new horizons for our subscribers and providing them with the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly global marketplace," said HAR.com Board Chair Mario Arriaga.
"This collaboration with Omni MLS will enhance our subscribers' abilities to serve their clients, whether they are looking to buy, sell, lease or invest in properties in Texas or abroad," Arriaga added.
Data share trend: Data sharing is picking up steam across the U.S. as MLSs look for ways to increase their value to subscribers — particularly in light of the settlement-mandated policy changes going into effect in mid-August, including the removal of the offer of compensation field from MLS platforms.
For HAR, this data share agreement is part of its "ongoing efforts to enhance our members' abilities to serve their clients and expand their businesses and referral opportunities," according to the news release.