Milestones: Utah MLS launches data company; CRMLS inks partnership
MLSs have a new way to give researchers quality data — and manage the process securely. Plus, CRMLS to share data with other Western MLSs, and more news.
Editor's note: From regional and statewide players to locals focused on a single market, multiple listings services and Realtor associations are the backbone of residential real estate. Here we highlight some of the latest news about the organizations that are shaping the future of the industry.
UtahRealEstate.com offshoot aims to simplify MLS data distribution
UtahRealEstate.com recently announced the launch of reDataExport LLC, a company that distributes multiple listing service data for research purposes.
reDataExport is a software platform that can provide non-MLS users with data in bulk form while keeping MLS systems secure. This will allow MLSs to share data with universities, public agencies and economists with more confidence, because they won't need to give users access to proprietary software, according to a news release.
"reDataExport provides a simple and easy-to-use solution for complex data requests," said Brad Bjelke, CEO of UtahRealEstate.com. "When MLSs can partner with local entities to be the expert in real estate data, they receive more recognition in the local market and establish powerful relationships that increase their value."
Distributing data via reDataExport serves two purposes, Bjelke said: It allows access to "quality data while also ensuring that the data is not misused or improperly distributed."
Founded in 1994, UtahRealEstate.com is one of the largest multiple listing services in the Western U.S., serving around 20,000 real estate professionals.
CRMLS partners with neighboring MLSs on data access
California Regional MLS, the nation's largest MLS with more than 100,000 subscribers, announced that it has entered into data access agreements with two other large Western MLSs.
Northwest MLS, which has more than 30,000 subscribers across much of Washington state and part of Oregon, and Western Arizona Realtor Data Exchange (WARDEX), which covers an expansive region along the California, Arizona and Nevada borders, have partnered with CRMLS, allowing their respective members to view listings on all three MLS platforms.
Having access to a broader pool of listings has become increasingly valuable in an era of remote work, "helping agents and brokers serve clients looking to move to further away areas," CRMLS said in a news release.
"CRMLS is always looking to innovate and help our users be evermore valuable to their clients," said CRMLS CEO Art Carter. "More data from more markets will only help consumers looking to move up north or out east, or those who wish to join us over here in California."
MLS leaders in the region have witnessed a lot of movement in recent years. "In 2024 alone, over 32,000 Californians moved to Arizona, while 16,000 relocated from Arizona to California," said WARDEX CEO Kim Everett. "By creating a collaborative environment for agents in each state, we can significantly enhance the buyer and seller experience."
Justin Haag, President and CEO of NWMLS, added that the partnership "provides access to listings, market data, and professional networks, creating new opportunities for collaboration and growth."
Houston MLS unveils virtual design tool for prospective buyers
The Houston Association of Realtors recently introduced a new AI-powered tool called Redesign, which lets consumers virtually customize the interior of homes listed on the association's website — one of the country's largest regional home search portals.
The tool, available for use on more than 70,000 HAR.com listings across Texas, gives home shoppers the ability to adjust the design of various rooms based on their personal preferences, then compare before-and-after photos.
"Redesign allows consumers to visualize a home's possibilities before they even step foot through the door," said HAR.com Chairman Mario Arriaga. "This innovative tool is one of many ways that HAR is using AI to enhance the home search experience, and it reflects our ongoing commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation in the real estate industry."
More MLS and association news
Bluegrass Realtors announces new leadership: Todd Hyatt, a longtime leader with Northern Kentucky's Bluegrass Realtors, has been installed as 2025 president of the Lexington-based association. Hyatt previously served as director and treasurer, and along with his wife, Lois Ann Disponett, owns the independent brokerage Lois Ann Disponett Real Estate.
Metrolist deal fuels Home Value Lock expansion: Since Sacramento-based Metrolist teamed up with Home Value lock late last year, the insurance product — which covers up to 10% of a home's value for the first three years after purchase — has partnered with Century 21 Select Real Estate and Stanford Mortgage, the MLS announced. Home Value Lock also has expanded to cover VA loan applicants.