MLS CEO Speaks to Mergers and the Power of Data Sharing in a Changing Market
This summer there will be a sea change in real estate representation and the processes that support that business. On top of that, mergers and data sharing are becoming increasingly common, making it crucial to have the right tools in place.
At Triangle MLS, we're fortunate to partner with exceptional vendors who support our network and help us manage these changing requirements. When faced with a challenge, we actively seek the best solutions. Recently, RPR (Realtors Property Resource®) proved to be the answer we needed.
The Challenge: Seamless Data Integration
In 2023, a neighboring MLS voted to merge with Triangle MLS. Merging our data was projected to take a while as neither system was RESO Compliant and on different MLS platforms. The project was completed, but the tight deadline forced us to find a faster approach.
RPR, a trusted vendor with existing data for both parties, offered a solution.
A simple call to RPR confirmed that a back-end adjustment could easily remove the data sharing barrier. This eliminated months of delays, granting our combined user base faster access to crucial real estate property data, analytics, and reports. Plus, data sharing through RPR comes at no cost to the MLS. See: What makes RPR data sharing different?
"Our experience with RPR during the merger highlights the platform’s potential as a powerful tool for streamlining data sharing and enhancing REALTOR® capabilities."
Our experience with RPR during the merger highlights the platform’s potential as a powerful tool for streamlining data sharing and enhancing REALTOR® capabilities. In fact, this week we met with another MLS and pointed out that we could use RPR to speed things up. They were receptive to the idea.
Data Sharing Leads to Growth
Why is Triangle MLS committed to extending the reach of its listings through data share?
Simply, the decision delivers four key benefits:
Our choice to display on-market listings nationwide through RPR, or engage in reciprocal data sharing with other MLSs, transcends traditional boundaries of protectionism while nurturing a deep-seated need for collaboration among industry participants. We believe this breakdown of barriers prioritizes the needs of both REALTORS® and consumers.
Yet, our MLS’s thriving relationship with RPR extends well beyond data sharing. The platform’s suite of tools equips our 14,500 subscribers with CMAs, customizable reports, in-depth property research, prospecting resources and market trend insights—everything they need to win listings and close deals faster.
As a NAR member, utilizing RPR is a strategic advantage you shouldn't miss.
Matt Fowler, Executive Director
Triangle MLS
About The Author
Matt Fowler currently leads Triangle MLS, the 8th largest MLS in the South Atlantic Region and 33rd largest in the US, as its Executive Director.
In 2024, Matt received the MLS Reinvented Award by Inman News. A commercial appraiser, a cancer survivor, and an advocate for land stewardship and fair housing, Matt also steered a technology company onto the Inc. 500 list not once, but twice.
What makes RPR data sharing different?
RPR View™ is a unique program that allows MLSs to securely share listing data (on-market and/or off-market) with fellow REALTORS® nationwide. This fosters collaboration and expands referral networks by granting MLSs control over the extent of data they share.
Display Active Listings Nationwide via RPR
As an MLS, you can help your subscribers expand the reach of their listings to REALTORS® throughout the nation, simply by displaying your on-market listings within RPR.
- Nationwide Exposure
Listings gain visibility among 1.5 million REALTORS® across the country. - Enhanced Referrals
Increased exposure feeds referral pipelines for Brokers and REALTORS®. - Market Expertise Identification
Agents actively working in specific markets become easily identifiable. - Wider Audience Engagement
Brokers and REALTORS® can target a broader audience, especially in contiguous markets or with MLS reciprocity agreements.
RPR's Data Sharing Advantage
- Cost-Free
There are no additional costs associated with data sharing through RPR. - Customization
MLSs control which listing statuses and MLSs to share data with. - Simplified CMA Creation
REALTORS® can easily create CMAs and market data reports for contiguous markets.
Consider RPR as a strategic tool to navigate the evolving real estate landscape. Contact RPR’s Industry Relations team today.
