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WAV Group: ValleyMLS, others recognize the power of controlling their own Data Destiny

07/07/2026

Originally posted at wavgroup.com by | June 30th, 2026

For years, MLSs have been told that their data is their greatest asset. But in too many markets, MLSs do not have the level of direct control, visibility, flexibility, or monetization power they need to fully protect and leverage that asset.

That is beginning to change.

More MLSs are recognizing that if they want to drive a profitable, secure, and innovative future, they need to take greater control of their own data infrastructure. They need the ability to know exactly where their data is going, who is using it, whether it is being used appropriately, and how it can be licensed in ways that create new value for the organization and its customers. In WAV Group Strategic Planning sessions we talk about the need to control your own data destiny. We talk about this highly technical topics in plain English so that non-technical MLS volunteer leaders understand the key benefits delivered when the MLS controls its own destiny. 

ValleyMLS, serving nearly 5,000 real estate professionals across North Alabama, has become the latest MLS to recognize the strategic importance of controlling its own data destiny. Through its new partnership with SourceRE, ValleyMLS will implement SourceRE’s MLS Data Exchange framework and list its data in the SourceRE Data Marketplace, creating a stronger foundation for data sovereignty, governed distribution, and long-term operational independence.

This is not simply a technology upgrade. It is a strategic infrastructure decision.

By establishing an independent, RESO-aligned database that sits alongside its existing vendor systems, ValleyMLS is creating a centralized source of truth for its data. That gives the MLS more flexibility to support multiple vendor relationships, pursue data-sharing opportunities, and give brokers and agents access to MLS data through their preferred front-end systems.

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HAAR & ValleyMLS Welcome Tiffany James as Incoming CEO

06/26/2026

Welcome to the Rocket City, Tiffany! The Huntsville Area Association of REALTORS® and ValleyMLS are […]

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ValleyMLS Partners with SourceRE for Data Security and Distribution

06/23/2026

North Alabama’s leading MLS partners with SourceRE to centralize data operations, modernize vendor distribution, and establish true data independence.

HUNTSVILLE, AL — June 22, 2026 — ValleyMLS today announced a strategic partnership with SourceRE to establish independent control over its data infrastructure. ValleyMLS will implement SourceRE’s MLS Data Exchange (MDX) framework and list its data in the SourceRE Data Marketplace, creating a unified foundation for data sovereignty, governed distribution, and long-term operational independence.

By deploying the MDX, ValleyMLS will establish an independent, RESO-aligned database that sits alongside its existing vendor systems, consolidating fragmented data operations into a single, centralized source of truth. ValleyMLS will be able to support multiple vendor relationships simultaneously and pursue partnerships and data-sharing initiatives. Agents and brokers retain access to MLS data from their preferred front-end system, with full view, edit, and write capabilities.

The partnership also enables ValleyMLS to benefit from SourceRE’s broader security infrastructure, including proprietary Data Dye forensic tracking technology, which embeds invisible identifiers into distributed listing data to detect and document unauthorized use.

“Data sovereignty has been a priority for ValleyMLS, and this partnership with SourceRE puts us in a position to act on it,” said Rhonda Ricketts, Director of MLS Operations. “The goal is building an independent data infrastructure that we control and modernize how we distribute and license that data to our vendor partners. These tools give us the visibility and authority over our data that we’ve been working toward.”

“ValleyMLS is making the kind of infrastructure investment that positions an MLS as ready for the future wave of technology” said Andrew Coca, CEO at SourceRE. “SourceRE data infrastructure will provide the tools they need to demonstrate value, gain leverage, and achieve complete data sovereignty.”

Additionally, via the SourceRE Data Marketplace, ValleyMLS vendors will gain streamlined onboarding and RESO-certified API access, while ValleyMLS retains full authority over who receives its data, under what terms, and at what cost.

For more information, visit sourceredb.com.

About ValleyMLS

ValleyMLS, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Huntsville Area Association of REALTORS® (HAAR), is North Alabama’s most accurate and comprehensive multiple listing service. Serving nearly 5,000 real estate professionals across nine counties, ValleyMLS delivers innovative technology, reliable data, and superior support, empowering real estate professionals across the region to serve their clients with confidence and professionalism. For more information and to search homes, visit ValleyMLS.com.

About SourceRE

SourceRE is redefining how the real estate industry accesses, manages, and monetizes data. Guided by RESO standards and protected with best-in-class security, including proprietary Data Dye forensic tracking, SourceRE for the MLS provides future-ready MLS infrastructure. The SourceRE Data Marketplace delivers governed data distribution and licensing for MLSs and data providers, helping organizations maximize the value of their data with secure, standards-based access.

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NAR Directors Elect 2027 Leadership; Keep Annual Dues at $156

06/18/2026

Capping off the REALTORS® Legislative Meetings, the National Association of REALTORS® Board of Directors met to approve the association’s 2027 budgeted membership number and dues level and to elect the 2027–28 treasurer. The rest of the 2027 Leadership Team advanced via a consent agenda approved by the board. 

2027 Leadership Team

  • President Christine Hansen (FL) 
  • President-elect Colin Mullane (OR) 
  • First Vice President Pete Kopf (OH) 
  • Treasurer Patti Fitzgerald (FL) 

Appointed positions are Vice President of Advocacy Chris Beadling (PA) and Vice President of Association Affairs Mary Dykstra (VA).

2027 Regional Vice Presidents

  • Region 1: Dawn Ruffini (MA) 
  • Region 2: Dave Legaz (NY) 
  • Region 3: John Powell (VA) 
  • Region 4: Mike Inman (KY) 
  • Region 5: Gia Arvin (FL) 
  • Region 6: Sara Lipnitz (MI) 
  • Region 7: Tommy Choi (IL) 
  • Region 8: Jason Miller (MN) 
  • Region 9: Natalie Moyer (KS) 
  • Region 10: Leigh York (TX) 
  • Region 11: Hubert Hill (NM) 
  • Region 12: John Blom (WA) 
  • Region 13: Dave Walsh (CA) 

2027 Liaisons

  • Association Leadership, Margy Grant (FL) 
  • Commercial & Industry Specialties, Fernando Arencibia (FL) 
  •  Global Real Estate, Steven Pagan (NJ) 
  •  Housing Issues, Matt Silver (IL) 
  •  Law & Policy, Todd Beckstrom (SC) 
  •  Broker Relations, Rick Davidson (UT) 
  •  MLS & Data Management, Michelle Bailey (ID) 
  • Member Engagement, Debra Beagle (TN) 
  • Member Services, Elizabeth Monarch (KY) 
  • Public & Federal Issues, Drew Coleman (OR) 
  • Realtor Party Director, Steve LaRue (KS) 
  • Realtor Party Community Engagement, PJ Johnsen (CA) 
  • Realtor Party Disbursement, Marvin Jolly (TX) 
  • Realtor Party Fundraising, Beth Dalton (VA) 
  • Realtor Party Member Involvement, Tiffany Meyer (OR) 

 

Directors also heard a report on the REALTORS® Relief Foundation from RRF President Greg Hrabcak (OH) and a report on RPAC fundraising from Vice President of Advocacy Asa Fleming (NC). In brief comments, CEO Nykia Wright thanked the Leadership Team for their continued outreach to members and thanked state and local associations; Institutes, Societies and Councils; and the brokerage community for their engagement. In July, NAR will report on Q2 2026 progress on the strategic plan. 

Distinguished Service Award

The 2026 Distinguished Service Award winners were announced. They are Robert J. Bailey of Aptos, Calif., and Judy Moore of Lexington, Mass. REALTORS® who receive the award have shown exceptionally meritorious service for at least 25 years and have been recognized as local leaders whose performance and involvement in political and community activities have been extraordinary. 

 

Directors also recognized Rebecca Grossman, CEO of Scottsdale REALTORS®, 2025 William R. Magel Award of Excellence recipient. The award is presented annually to an individual who has excelled in his or her role as a REALTOR® association executive.  

Finance Committee

Directors approved four Finance Committee recommendations: 

  • NAR dues will remain at $156 per member for 2027 
  • Budgeted membership will remain at 1.2 million for 2027 
  • $35 of the $45 Consumer Advertising Campaign assessment for 2027 will be allocated to operating budget and $10 will be allocated to the CAC. The reallocation strengthens NAR’s overall financial stability and ensures funding is prioritized toward core programs, while still preserving a portion of CAC for its intended purpose.
  • Acceptance of the 2025 audited financial statement for NAR, its subsidiaries and affiliated Institutes, Societies and Councils. 

Treasurer Craig Sanford reported to the board that membership, as of June 18, stood at 1,439,163—but the 1.2 million forecast “represents an appropriate expense planning baseline, reflecting a prudent decrease in response to the continued market uncertainty and external pressure on membership.”  

Rather than passing a budget at these meetings, the board will be asked to review the 2027 budget at NAR NXT in November. 

Professional Standards

Directors voted on two recommended changes to the Code of Ethics Standards of Practice, referring one back to committee and approving the other: 

  • Proposed Standard of Practice 1-17—intended to clarify the broad language under Article 1 of the Code of Ethics—was referred back to the Professional Standards Committee for reconsideration. The Standard would have added language that specified a duty to disclose if a member lacked the knowledge, information or skills about a property type or geographical area to adequately protect and promote the client’s interests. The decision to refer the motion back to the committee doesn’t change members’ obligations under Article 1.
     
  • Directors approved an amendment to Standard of Practice 16-11 to require REALTORS® to make any request for compensation from a seller of unlisted property no later than when an offer is being presented rather than at first contact. This amendment acknowledges the post-settlement environment and ensures that a potential buyer’s negotiating position is not compromised by a premature request for compensation at an NAR’ member’s first contact with an unrepresented seller. 

Credentials and Campaign Rules

Directors approved two revisions to the Campaign and Election Rules Manual: 

  • Clarifying that potential candidates must meet the “required criteria” as of April 1 of the year prior to the election year, consistent with the new application submission period, and that potential candidates for Regional Vice President must meet the “required criteria” by April 1 of the year prior to the election of officers by the Board of Directors at the REALTORS® Legislative Meetings. These clarifications ensure transparency to candidates as to when they must meet the required criteria for elected office. 


  • Clarifying that required service criteria referenced in specific sections is of the manual [subsections 1(a)(vi)(f) and (g), 2(a)(vi)(f) and (g), and 3(g)(vi) and (vii)] is at the NAR level. The changes ensure transparency in the requirements to serve in the offices of president, president-elect, first vice president, treasurer, and regional vice president, and clarify eligible service qualifications for chair, vice chair, and liaison roles. 

Earlier this week, the Executive Committee approved four recommendations from the Federal Taxation Committee and eight recommendations from the Legal Action Committee that didn’t require a board of directors vote. 

 

Today’s meeting concluded the REALTORS® Legislative Meetings. The board meets next during NAR NXT, which takes place Nov. 6–8 in New Orleans

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FMLS, Chattanooga REALTORS, ValleyMLS Expand Regional MLS Network w/ New 3-Way Data Share

04/29/2026

Reciprocal access now spans most of Alabama, Georgia, and Eastern Tennessee - creating new opportunities for brokers, agents, buyers, and sellers.
ATLANTA, GA, UNITED STATES, April 29, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — First Multiple Listing Service (FMLS), Greater Chattanooga REALTORS®, and ValleyMLS today announced a new three-way MLS data share that connects their markets through an expanded regional partnership, giving brokers and agents broader access to listings and market data across key areas of Alabama, Georgia, and Eastern Tennessee.
This collaborative agreement strengthens ties among three forward-thinking MLS organizations committed to helping members better serve clients in an increasingly active regional marketplace. By combining reciprocal access across their systems, the partnership creates more efficient tools for real estate professionals while increasing exposure and opportunity for buyers and sellers.
Through this enhanced partnership, brokers and agents gain seamless access to a broader inventory of listings and market data directly within their native MLS platforms – eliminating the need for multiple logins while improving efficiency and client service. Sellers benefit from expanded exposure to a larger network of real estate professionals, while buyers gain greater visibility into available inventory across a wider regional footprint.
“This is exactly how MLS organizations should work together, by removing barriers and helping real estate professionals serve consumers wherever opportunity exists,” said Jeremy Crawford, FMLS President & CEO. “We have already seen the value these partnerships create, and expanding that success across parts of Tennessee and northern Alabama is a smart, strategic move for our members and their clients.”
“This expanded partnership gives our members more opportunities to serve clients, market listings, and access critical data across a broader regional footprint,” said Carol Seal, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS’ CEO. “Real estate does not stop at state lines, and neither should the tools our professionals rely on.”
“ValleyMLS is proud to be part of a collaboration that delivers practical value to our members every day,” said Cindi Peters-Tanner, ValleyMLS’ Chair. “This expanded regional network strengthens cooperation and gives brokers and agents the tools they need to better serve buyers and sellers throughout North Alabama and beyond.”
“FMLS is committed to expanding these types of partnerships with other like-minded MLS organizations throughout the Southeast and anywhere in the United States, Canada, and around the world,” added Jeremy Crawford. “When MLSs work together, we create more transparent, efficient marketplaces that ultimately benefit consumers, brokers, and agents alike.”
The enhanced agreement reflects a growing industry movement toward MLS cooperation, regional efficiency, and better consumer outcomes through broader access to accurate, timely listing data.
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BE AWARE: Local Scam Compromises REALTOR Safety

04/28/2026

MEMBER ALERT: Safety and Security Warning

We have received a report from a local member regarding an encounter with an individual displaying highly suspicious behavior and using fraudulent financial documentation. We are sharing the details of this incident to help you remain vigilant and prioritize your personal safety during showings.

Incident Details

The individual, identifying himself as John, contacted an agent regarding a listing. While he provided a local phone number and had a social media profile that matched his appearance, several red flags emerged during and after the showing:
  • Behavioral Red Flags: The individual expressed surprise that the home was occupied rather than staged. During the tour, he insisted the agent lead him through the entire house while he remained positioned behind her at all times.
  • Inconsistent Narrative: He claimed his fiancée was currently in Ukraine due to a family emergency and would be part of the purchase process.
  • Vague Threats/Personal References: Following the tour, he sent text messages referencing the agent’s specific social media content, creating an unprofessional and uncomfortable dynamic.
  • Fraudulent Documentation: The individual provided highly irregular and “bizarre” documentation as proof of funds that did not meet any standard banking or financial criteria.
  • Criminal History: A subsequent background check via Forewarn revealed multiple convictions for Theft by Deception (over $2,500).

Safety Reminders for All Members

This incident serves as a critical reminder that while we strive to provide excellent service to potential clients, your safety is the top priority.

1) USE YOUR TOOLS: Utilize services like Forewarn to vet prospects before meeting them in person. If a name or number returns a history of financial crimes or violence, reconsider the meeting or ensure you are not alone.

2) STANDARDIZE YOUR SAFETY PROTOCOLS:
  • The “Buddy System”: Whenever possible, bring a colleague to a showing, especially if you have a “gut feeling” that something is off.
  • Lead from Behind: Never lead a prospect into a room (especially basements or small spaces). Gesture into the room and let the client enter first.
  • Park for an Exit: Always park on the street or in a position where your vehicle cannot be blocked in the driveway.
3) TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS: If a prospect’s behavior makes you uncomfortable, you have the right to terminate the tour or leave the premises. Discernment is one of your most valuable professional tools.

4) REPORTING SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY: If you encounter this individual or experience a similar situation, please notify the local authorities and report the incident to the Association. Keeping our community informed is the best way to keep our members safe.
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Introducing the ValleyMLS App!

03/02/2026

Faster Than a Speeding Search — Try the ValleyMLS App!​

Mobile App Highlights!

  • Intuitive search filters
  • Save and share listings
  • Calculate mortgage rates
  • Device notifications for listing changes

ValleyMLS App FAQ’s

What makes ValleyMLS different from Zillow or other national apps?

ValleyMLS is powered directly by our local MLS, meaning listings update in real time with the most accurate information on homes in North Alabama. Zillow and other national apps often experience delays, so a home that looks “available” there may already be under contract here.
Do I need to be a REALTOR® to use ValleyMLS?

No! ValleyMLS is free and available to anyone searching for homes. It’s the same trusted data REALTORS® use daily—now available at your fingertips.
Can buyers connect with REALTORS® through ValleyMLS?
 
Yes! ValleyMLS not only gives you the most accurate, real-time listing updates, but it also helps buyers easily find and connect with local REALTORS®—trusted experts who know North Alabama best.
Is the ValleyMLS app only for homebuyers?

 

No! While it’s great for buyers, renters and home sellers can benefit too. The app includes rental listings and tools like the valuation feature to help sellers understand their home’s market value.
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Anti-Money Laundering Rule Aimed at All-Cash Buyers Goes Into Effect March 1

02/27/2026

Closing and settlement agents will be responsible for submitting a new report to the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).
To help members under the rule and provide best practices, NAR is hosting a no-cost webinar featuring a FinCEN official at 2 p.m. ET on Wednesday, March 11. Members can register here. An FAQ page has just been published and a Window to the Law video will follow next week.
A new federal residential real estate rule aimed at cracking down on money laundering goes into effect Sunday.
Under the rule, when entities or trusts buy residential real property without financing, including all-cash sales and sales involving non-regulated lenders, a report listing the names of the entity or trusts’ individual beneficial owners, addresses, Social Security numbers and more, must be reported to the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). Exceptions are included herepdf.
In general, a closing or settlement agent is responsible for collecting the information and submitting the Real Estate Report to FinCEN by a date 30-60 days following the transaction’s closing. If a closing or settlement agent is not involved there’s a line of succession to whom the responsibility falls.
While real estate agents and brokers won’t be involved in the reporting process, it’s important they’re aware of the change to educate buyers so that their clients are prepared. Title companies and closing attorneys likely will not close one of these transactions unless all required information is collected prior to closing.
To help members under the rule and provide best practices, NAR is hosting a no-cost webinar featuring a FinCEN official at 2 p.m. ET on Wednesday, March 11. Members can register here. An FAQ page has just been published and a Window to the Law video will follow next week.
The reports, which the agency says will be maintained in a secure database and inaccessible to the public, are designed to deter bad actors from exploiting loopholes in the real estate settlement process.
“Although there are many legitimate reasons to use legal entities and trusts to own residential real property, illicit actors intent on laundering funds through residential real property often use legal entities and trusts to disguise their identities and make the proceeds of crime more difficult to identify,” FinCEN says. “Illicit actors often favor non-financed transfers (including ‘all-cash’ sales) of residential real estate to avoid scrutiny from financial institutions that have anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism program and Suspicious Activity Report filing requirements under the Bank Secrecy Act.”
It’s difficult to approximate how many transactions this rule will impact. The National Association of REALTORS® has estimates for residential all-cash buyers and residential purchases by entities (including trusts), but not both.
Last year, roughly 28% of buyers did not finance their home purchase, according to an average of the NAR’s monthly REALTORS® Confidence Indexes. In addition, nearly 22% of residential purchases were bought by an entity (including trusts), the association found.
In its notice of proposed rulemaking, FinCEN said about 800,000–850,000 transactions annually will need a report.
The rule got off to a bit of a bumpy start. It was originally slated to take effect back in December 2025, but FinCEN postponed it in September to “provide the industry with more time to comply.” Just last week, however, it withstood a challenge in court filed by a title insurance company. The judge found in favor of the U.S. government that the rule was within the authority of FinCEN and did not violate the Fourth Amendment.
For more information FinCEN published an extensive FAQ on its website: https://www.fincen.gov/rre-faqs
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BHM26: A note from HAAR’s Diversity Committee Chair

02/02/2026

A note from HAAR Diversity Committee Chair Demberia Grandy:

As we kick off Black History Month, I find myself reflecting on more than just the dates and figures in our history books. To me, this month is a profound reminder of the resilience that is woven into the American fabric. It is a time to honor the ancestors who turned ‘no’ into ‘not yet’ and ‘impossible’ into ‘watch me.’
For us as REALTORS, Black History Month carries a unique weight. Our industry sits at the very heart of the American Dream: homeownership. We cannot ignore that for many Black families, the journey toward that dream was paved with systemic obstacles. But we also celebrate the victories—the trailblazing Black brokers and agents who fought for Fair Housing and the families who built generational wealth against all odds.
Determination shouldn’t have an expiration date. While February gives us a focused spotlight, the ideals of the struggle and the joy of the victory must be our North Star all year round. Inclusion isn’t a monthly theme; it is a daily commitment to ensuring every member of the Huntsville community feels seen, heard, and empowered to own a piece of the land they call home.
We have an incredible year planned, filled with education, advocacy, and community building. But we can’t do it alone. We need your voice, your energy, and your perspective.
If you are interested in joining the Diversity Committee or simply want to learn more about our upcoming initiatives, please reach out.
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Chicago brokers share how to scale real estate teams and win in 2026

01/21/2026

At A and N Mortgage’s first Power Hour of the year Jan. 15, Matt Laricy, managing broker at Americorp Real Estate and team lead of The Laricy Team, and Jill Silverstein, president of the JS Group at Compass, pulled back the curtain on how top-producing teams can scale without losing their edge. The panel, titled “Scaling Smart: When to Hire, When to Outsource, When to Grind,” drew agents looking for concrete strategies to grow in the Chicagoland market. 

Planning in Q4 for 2026 

Laricy opened by stressing that success in January is built months earlier. He reviews every lost listing and client who chose another agent, saving their feedback and using it to rebuild his playbook for the coming year. “I’m planning January in September, October, November,” he said, explaining that weaknesses identified in the prior year become targets for improvement so they can turn into strengths in 2026. 
Anticipating a surge in demand, Laricy has grown his team ahead of the curve, hiring and training agents and adding virtual assistants in the Philippines to handle late-night scheduling and logistics. That move, he said, protects his in-office staff from burnout while ensuring every opportunity is captured during peak season. 
He also pushes buyers to think strategically about timing, often advising January and February shoppers with spring leases to extend to late summer or fall so they can skip “waiting in line like a club to get into a property” and buy when competition eases. 

Coaching buyers to compete 

Silverstein focused on front-line execution with buyers, especially in multiple-offer situations. She coaches clients to treat every showing as an audition: dress well, introduce themselves to the listing agent, and come across as “warm, easy, rational, fair” so they stand out when offers pile up. In a market where most offers are over asking, “as is,” and accompanied by appraisal waivers, she said the difference is often in presentation and process, not just price. 
Her team’s offers are packaged with a buyer profile, JS Group accolades, and a tailored cover letter that humanizes the deal while staying within fair housing guidelines. Strong terms on earnest money, timing and flexibility around the seller’s needs round out the strategy. 
On the agent side, both Laricy and Silverstein criticized “text-only” negotiators; Silverstein tells her team, “Call the agent. Call the agent. Call the agent every time,” while Laricy admitted he’ll take a lower offer with a strong, responsive agent over a higher offer from someone who won’t pick up the phone. 

Hire before you feel ready 

 On hiring and scaling, Silverstein said while it’s good to understand what you’re good at, it’s also to know what you’re bad at.  
“I worked to be able to hire an assistant because I knew that was going to be the ticket to help me scale,” she said. 
Silverstein hit $11 million in volume in her first year, largely from open houses and relentless networking, then hired an assistant just 10 months in so she could focus on prospecting and brand-building. A later hire — a dedicated transaction manager — was “pivotal,” allowing her to hand off contract-to-close and stay in growth mode. 
Laricy, meanwhile, described his hiring filter as simple but strict: undying loyalty, work ethic and cultural fit. Candidates meet him, then existing team members, because “we’re like a family,” he said, and he refuses to carry agents who treat real estate as a part-time hobby.  
For agents in Chicago, the message from both panelists was clear: plan early, hire before you feel ready, outsource the noise — and grind where your unique value is highest. 

Reprinted from: https://chicagoagentmagazine.com/2026/01/15/chicago-brokers-team-growth-2026/

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