MLS System Changing

As of January 15th, the MLS system has changed the Realtors access to the MLS.

Tokens have been distributed to the paying members of the MLS system that are in good standing. The old way of getting into the MLS system was through a user name and password. Apparently there have been those that have shared their identifying information with other non-paying agents, clients and even sold their identity or the information to others.

Since we deal with critical privileged client information that needs to be protected, the MLS system has devised a two factor authentication log in system.

Each Realtor will still use their regular user name and password but then be prompted to enter a number appearing on the token. This number is a six digit code that changes every 60 seconds and is a unique mathematical formula generated for each specific token that identifies that Realtor.

The same algorithm runs on MLS so the system knows what the token code should be at any given moment for the specific token.

By February 20, 2007 this system with the token feature will be joined with other County MLS systems as well. This new system is called Quattro and will have over 40,000 agents and Brokers involved in 3 MLS organizations. There are 15 counties within these 3 MLS organizations with a population of over 5,600,000. The Counties included are:

By combining the MLS systems for all of these areas which cover from the Pacific Ocean to the crest of the Sierra Mountains this new data sharing arrangement enhances the ability of real estate agents to effectively serve their clients throughout Northern California.

Once all of these areas have received their tokens and the MLS data is combined into one data base, Realtors will be able to access all the listings on-line by April 10, 2007 in all 3 MLS systems.
Of course, the rules for each MLS system must be followed so there will be a learning curve and in the early stages. A brief fact sheet will be available from each MLS highlighting the key differences in the rules.

Each participant will need to subscribe to an agreement to abide by the rules of each organization of the new Quattro system and the tokens will be required. Lockboxes for each of the three MLS organizations will work the same.

Im sure there will be challenges and we will all need to work together for a easy transition and remember that it is important to know the area that you are working in, so that you can best serve your client.

Running and listing or selling a house in an area that you are unfamiliar with is never in the best interest of your client nor in your best interest when he might entail a law suit. Think twice and refer to a Realtor in that area.