What does the acronym "MLS" stand for in real estate?

The acronym "MLS" stands for Multiple Listing Service. This is a critical tool in the real estate industry used by real estate brokers and agents to share information about properties for sale. The MLS allows members to access a comprehensive database of properties, facilitating cooperation among agents and providing a platform to market properties more widely. This service not only enhances visibility for sellers but also assists buyers by giving them access to a broader range of available properties. The concept of a Multiple Listing Service is fundamental to how real estate transactions are conducted, ensuring that listings are easily accessible and that agents can work collaboratively to serve their clients.