Open Real Estate gains support from independents and MLS leaders

Open Real Estate, a broker-led initiative to create a shared infrastructure for residential listing data, announced it has received 826 letters of support from real estate brokerage leaders nationwide, according to HousingWire.

Independent brokerages make up the majority of this support, contributing 493 letters, or 59%, from firms ranging from single-office independents to large independent brokerages such as Atlanta Communities and Realty of America.

The initiative aims to build a national, shared data layer connecting brokerages, agents, multiple listing services (MLSs), and real estate portals, with founding members including AGNT Inc., HomeServices of America, Keller Williams Realty, and Real REMAX Group.

Open Real Estate's backers emphasize that the project is designed to complement existing MLS organizations by expanding access to listing information for brokerages, agents, and consumers rather than replacing MLSs.

Several MLS executives have expressed support for collaboration with Open Real Estate. Brian Donnellan, CEO of Bright MLS, and Art Carter, CEO of California Regional MLS, both welcomed the initiative and expressed interest in partnership and enhancing the broker-driven marketplace.