Independent brokerages join Open Real Estate data-sharing initiative

Open Real Estate, a national residential real estate data-sharing initiative, has gained momentum as independent brokerages sign on, HousingWire reported.

Samson Properties and Iron Valley Real Estate have joined the initiative, which was launched by AGNT, HomeServices of America, Keller Williams Realty, and Real REMAX Group, all RealTrends Verified brokerages.

The initiative is not a national MLS nor intended to replace local MLSs, but seeks to streamline property information distribution and support a more open, competitive housing marketplace.

Donny Samson, CEO of Samson Properties, said joining was a clear decision due to his belief that consumers should have access to all housing options, noting frustrations with listings not fully visible to the public in the D.C.-Maryland-Virginia market.

Samson emphasized the importance of making every listing available to benefit both sellers and buyers, and expressed pride that his firm is among the first participants.

Iron Valley Real Estate also signed on shortly after the initiative's launch, signaling growing support among independent brokerages.