Why Can’t I Search the Minneapolis MLS?

What do homebuyers “Google?” What search terms to they use? Names of cities or things like “Minneapolis REALTOR” are common search terms. More often than not, something like “Minneapolis mls” or “mpls mls” is commonly queried in the search engines. Not surprisingly, hundreds of competing search pages will be returned by the search engine.

However, most Minneapolis real estate buyers would be surprised that none of those results contain actual Minneapolis mls search features. The home search functions on this site and others actually display results supplied by a feed called “IDX.” In our area, this feed is generated by the Northstar Regional MLS. Participating brokers who have homes listed on the MLS can opt-in or opt-out of sharing their listings in the IDX. Only a member agent can access the actual MLS.

What is the difference? Well, as far as using them to locate a house, not very much. The actual MLS will be more up-to-the-minute and will offer more property details. However, most of the homes that are listed in the Minneapolis MLS will appear in the idx search results. Not too many Twin Cities brokers withhold their Minneapolis MLS listings from the IDX system. In most cases, this would not make sense. In most cases, withholding a listing from this type of internet exposure would not be in the best interest of the home seller.

The MLS also provides your REALTOR with more detailed information about previous sales and other archived materials as well as some statistical tools. From the home buyers perspective, however, there is not much difference. The datasets might have some differences, but the buyer can still use this site to locate almost all homes that are currently active on the Minneapolis MLS.

In light of these differences, can REALTORS say things like “Search the MLS here” on links or buttons on their websites? According to the Northstar Regional MLS board of governors, the answer is “NO!” The board forbids its members from using this kind of language on the internet. It will “shut down” member REALTORS who do not comply with this rule. Under the banner of protecting consumers, the Northstar Regional MLS has acted to protect its proprietary interests in the name “MLS” or “Multiple Listing Service.”

Is this in the best interests of the consumer? Interestingly, the Northstar Regional MLS cannot stop out-of-state referral companies from stating things like “Search all Minnesota MLS Listings Here.” Perhaps it is good that consumers know the technical distinctions between these two systems. However, the rule makes it more likely that a Minneapolis home buyer will make his first contact with an out-of-state service provider who does not know very much about the Twin Cities region.

I am a long term resident of Minneapolis. This is my core service area. I know it well. Please call me if you would like me to send customized lists of actual Minneapolis MLS data sheets to you.

In the meantime you can use this link to search for Minnesota homes for sale.

Possibly related posts:

1. Is This a “Safe” Minneapolis Neighborhood?