President’s Page: Thank You for Your Feedback on Bright MLS Off-MLS Policy

On October 3rd, we shared with you in our weekly newsletter that the National Association of REALTORS® was seeking input from members requiring brokers to share listings with other brokers in the MLS. On October 16th, we received official notification that Bright MLS announced a new policy requiring agents to submit a listing within 1 business day of marketing to the public.

Given the level of feedback received from members, the DAAR Board of Directors met in an emergency meeting on Thursday, October 18th to review and discuss the concerns you shared with us.  Following that meeting, we launched a formal survey asking for your perspective on how the new policy impacts your business. I would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the 400 members who took time to share their feedback and provide suggestions. Your level of engagement on this issue speaks to the passion you feel about your real estate career path and the industry we all support. I am so proud to be a DAAR member and can’t thank you enough for jumping into the trenches with us.

On Tuesday, October 22nd, we met with Bright leaders and other shareholder associations to express concerns. Bright MLS Board of Director Member Boyd Campbell from Maryland shared with me personally about the opportunity to suggest improvements to the policy moving forward.  The Board of Directors met a second time on Thursday, October 24th to discuss that conversation and to review additional feedback and many solution-oriented options provided by our members. As a result, the Board of Directors began work on consideration of potential policy tweaks that aim to strike a balance between the needs of agents, their clients and the marketplace.   We plan to communicate with you in the near future on the outcome of those discussions.

In the meantime, you can expect further communication about this policy to help keep you in compliance.   Please take time to review the latest resources, including updated questions and answers, regarding this new policy here.

Thank you for your continued membership and support of the Dulles Area Association of REALTORS®. We strive to provide you with full line of business benefits, excellent service and support throughout your real estate career. Our number one priority is you as we work to advocate on your behalf.