Several MLSs have recently launched MLS photographer programs. Under such a program, the MLS works directly with photographers to increase market options and transparency, reduce risk for involved … Read more about MLS photographer program considerations
Copyright office proposed fee increase
The Copyright Office proposed new fees for copyright applications (see here). The proposed fee for the type of applications MLSs submit constitutes a 488% increase. We thought that was unreasonable. … Read more about Copyright office proposed fee increase
MLS terms of use changes and copyright FAQ
This post is the result of a collaborative effort amongst the Council of Multiple Listing Services, The Realty Alliance, The National Association of REALTORS®, and Larson Skinner PLLC. -- Many MLSs … Read more about MLS terms of use changes and copyright FAQ
MLS Direct Syndication Negotiation
In my last blog post I promised that, “In a future post, I will take a closer look at the direct syndication model. Why? It’s more complex, it’s more interesting, it gives MLS’s more flexibility, and … Read more about MLS Direct Syndication Negotiation
MLS syndication strategy
As MLSs reevaluate their strategic planning going into the New Year, we’ve been getting many questions about how to approach the dynamic world that is listing syndication. We thought it might be … Read more about MLS syndication strategy
Public futility? MLSs should focus on broker needs, not fear government regulation
In a post last week, my buddy Rob Hahn speculated about the likelihood of MLS being regulated by the government as a public utility. He and I had had an exchange of tweets during sessions at the … Read more about Public futility? MLSs should focus on broker needs, not fear government regulation
Keep it simple, stupid
No, I’m not talking to you. I’m thinking out loud. Please do not be offended. It is easy for me lose sight of the “big picture” when dealing with data distribution legal issues on a day-in and … Read more about Keep it simple, stupid
SM/IDX: What counts as a social media platform?
I proposed back on November 18 that we should have an open discussion about social media and IDX. Enough folks responded here and on Facebook, etc., that they'd like to see the discussion. In later … Read more about SM/IDX: What counts as a social media platform?
Copyright ownership of MLS listings – a refresher
There are new industry grumblings of websites infringing MLS and broker copyrights. We have received several emails regarding the alleged infringement, and I am communicating with one website owner on … Read more about Copyright ownership of MLS listings – a refresher
Follow the listing record
It's easy to lose track of where listing records go. From IDX sites to VOWs to third party aggregators to data licensees, the path of listings can be confusing. Hopefully this simplified* chart will … Read more about Follow the listing record
Q&A with NAR policy staff on proposed IDX policy changes
Update late Nov. 10: Be sure to see some additional comments from Cliff Niersbach at NAR below. He corrects what may be a mistake in the way that I've described this. -BIn this afternoon's NAR legal … Read more about Q&A with NAR policy staff on proposed IDX policy changes
Strategic view of proposed NAR social media, RSS, mobile policy
In Anaheim next week, NAR will likely pass the social media (and RSS etc.) policy proposed by its newest PAG on the topic. Elizabeth has summarized some of the tactical details on the social media … Read more about Strategic view of proposed NAR social media, RSS, mobile policy