What Is Multiple Listing Service (MLS)?
Multiple Listing Service (MLS): The database real estate brokers use to share listings, which feeds most home search websites.
Also called: MLS
A multiple listing service (MLS) is a database run by local real estate associations where brokers share homes for sale. Hundreds of regional MLSs cover the U.S.
What it means for buyers
Most consumer home search sites get their listings from MLS feeds, so you can see nearly every home listed by a broker without an agent.
Sold data
MLS records of recent sales are a major source of comparable sales. Public records and home search sites also show sold prices in most states.
Good to know
Some homes are sold "off-market" or for sale by owner, without appearing on the MLS.