Paragon Connect
How to choose the right MLS platform for you
The top 10 "must-haves" when considering your front-end of choice.
1. Freedom of movement
Real estate agents are constantly on the go. From paperwork at the office, to showing a home, to staging open houses and broker tours, agents never stand still. So, ask yourself: Can you take your MLS with you and have the same experience no matter where you’re working from? Do you have the same workflows on your desktop as you do on your phone? Or are you using different systems for each location, wasting time training on and learning several pieces of software that weren’t designed to work together. Look for a system that delivers the same seamless experience from one device to the next.
2. Powerhouse searching
Search is the most-used feature of any MLS system, an outdated search technology can make it cumbersome and confusing with continuous scrolling to find the information to enter and search for your buyers and sellers. Don’t settle for anything less than intuitive search functionality. You should be able to completely customize your searches to search the way you want and get matches in a snap.
3. “Near me” search
The right MLS system offers users more than one way to search. Another must-have option is near me search. If your client doesn’t like a current property, but loves the neighborhood, then “near me” search enables you to quickly find other listings in the same area that might be just what they’re looking for. This type of search provides a more personalized experience for users and saves time, gas and effort in the property search process by finding properties in close proximity.
4. Advanced mapping
Helping guide buyers to their future neighborhood is key to a successful real estate transaction. The best MLS has advanced mapping tools that provide a visual representation of property listings on a map interface. This visual aid helps users understand the location of properties in relation to amenities, schools, transportation, and other important landmarks – because when buyers can see the possibilities, everything feels more real for them. Armed with MLS and public records data, agents can make more informed decisions when marketing or searching for properties.
5. Speech-to-text
Real estate agents are busy, and the last thing they have time for is manual data entry. Look for a MLS platform that has speech-to-text fields enabled for your most common tasks to save you time and effort every day. If your mobile MLS doesn’t allow this functionality, you’re missing out.
6. Power sharing
Get your homes in front of buyers, so you can get buyers into homes. Gain exposure for your listings with power sharing, so your properties can show up on as many channels as possible. The right MLS promotes sharing listings the way your client prefers via email, text message, and social media.
7. Simple Competitive Market Analysis (Easy CMA)
You’re at a party and the question comes up: “Hey, aren’t you a real estate agent? I’m thinking about selling my house.” You reach for your phone, knowing that because you chose the right MLS, you can capitalize on that opportunity before hors d’oeuvres are done. When you use a front-end system that delivers competitive market analysis in the palm of your hand, you’re only ever moments away from showing a potential customer all that you can do for them.
8. Buyer and seller connection
Relationships are built on good communication with your buyers and sellers. The right MLS helps buyers find homes they’re interested in, while keeping open lines of communication. And it helps sellers see activity on their listing. The right MLS has a buyer and seller portal for your clients to communicate with you along with push notifications to keep you up to date along the way.
9. Property watch
Information is power, and staying on top of pricing trends, competition, and market conditions can help you deliver the best possible experience for buyers and sellers. Of course, real estate agents can’t spend their days watching properties like a hawk – but the right MLS can, helping you get the latest scoop on properties in your area, meeting your clients’ needs, achieving a competitive edge, and representing your sellers efficiently. The right MLS will have the ability to monitor properties no matter where you’re working from, so you can jump on opportunities the minute they arise.
10. Security
Don’t get caught flat-footed in the security department. Make sure your MLS platform adheres to industry standards for data security and is continually investing in the latest security updates. The right MLS places a premium on security, and knows that in a digital market, data protection is paramount.
Did you know?
All of these capabilities, and more, are available in the next-gen MLS system – Paragon Connect.
