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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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5 Questions Consumers Are Asking AI About Real Estate Agents

07/06/2026

Consumers have spent years using Google to research real estate agents. Increasingly, they’re turning to AI tools for answers as well.

Instead of visiting multiple websites, a buyer might ask ChatGPT which agents have strong reputations in a particular market. A seller might ask an AI assistant, Who specializes in luxury homes? or Which agents have the best reviews? While the technology is still evolving, it reflects a change in consumer behavior: people want answers faster, and they’re looking for tools that can summarize information for them.

For real estate agents, that brings up an important question: what information are these tools finding about you? To find out, see the top five questions consumers are asking AI about agents today.

If you’d like to learn more about how online reputation, Google visibility, reviews, and AI-driven search impact lead generation, register for ReTechnology’s upcoming free webinar, Certified Google Rated Agent.

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Nominating & Elections Committees Set

06/30/2026

The Huntsville Area Association of REALTORS® (HAAR) is proud to announce the officially approved members of the 2026 Nominating Committee and 2026 Elections Committee.

These dedicated leaders play a vital role in shaping the future of our association, ensuring a fair, transparent, and robust leadership election process for the upcoming year. Please join us in thanking them for their commitment and service to our real estate community.

2026 Nominating Committee

The Nominating Committee is tasked with reviewing and selecting a qualified slate of candidates to lead HAAR into the future, representing a diverse cross-section of our membership, brokerage sizes, and experienced past leadership.
  • Opie Balch – Past President
  • Betty Hughes – Past President
  • Robert Simons – Past President
  • Mike Sandoval – Broker Representative 
  • Walt Hennessee – Broker Representative 
  • Brian Dean – At-Large Member 
  • Khrista Dees – At-Large Member 

2026 Elections Committee

The Elections Committee oversees the voting process, safeguarding the integrity and accuracy of our annual leadership elections.

  • Sharita Whitehead

  • Zach Bingham

  • Bill Ward

Stay Tuned: More information regarding the 2026 election timeline, candidate applications, and voting instructions will be shared in the coming weeks. Be sure to check back here or watch your inbox for updates!

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Recognizing Excellence: HAAR Award Nominations Now Open

05/24/2026

HAAR Award Nominations Are Open!

It’s time to shine a spotlight on the leaders, innovators, and helping hands that make our real estate community exceptional. We are officially accepting nominations for our prestigious annual awards!
Do you know a colleague who goes above and beyond? A broker who leads with integrity? Or a neighbor who transforms our community? Now is your chance to ensure their hard work is recognized.
Deadline: All surveys must be completed by July 1st to be considered.

🏅 The Awards 🏅

  • Realtor® of the Year: Honoring a member who demonstrates the highest level of professional standards and service to HAAR.
  • Broker Excellence Award: Celebrating a broker who leads by example, fostering a culture of mentorship and professionalism.
  • HAAR Good Neighbor Award: Highlighting a member who makes a significant impact through volunteer work and community service.
  • Affiliate of the Year: Recognizing an industry partner who has shown outstanding support and dedication to our association.

🏆 How to Nominate 🏆

Please use the links below to submit your nominations. Realtors are encouraged to self-nominate. After all, who knows you better than you? 
Pro Tip: If you’re nominating a colleague, we recommend reaching out to them directly. This ensures you have the most accurate and complete information to make their candidacy stand out!

Deadline: All surveys must be completed by July 1st to be considered.
REALTOR OF THE YEAR AWARD
BROKER EXCELLENCE AWARD
GOOD NEIGHBOR AWARD
AFFILIATE OF THE YEAR AWARD

🏆 How to Nominate 🏆

Please use the links below to submit your nominations. Realtors are encouraged to self-nominate. After all, who knows you better than you? 
Pro Tip: If you’re nominating a colleague, we recommend reaching out to them directly. This ensures you have the most accurate and complete information to make their candidacy stand out!

Deadline: All surveys must be completed by July 1st to be considered.
REALTOR OF THE YEAR AWARD
BROKER EXCELLENCE AWARD
GOOD NEIGHBOR AWARD
AFFILIATE OF THE YEAR AWARD

📆 Save the Date: August 6th 📆

We will celebrate the winners and our entire HAAR family at the usual stunning location, Burritt on the Mountain, on August 6th at 11:30am.
Register now through your dashboard, because seats are limited!
Thank you for your time, your input, and for helping us celebrate the best of the best in our industry!
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Kathy Mann: A Legacy of Service, Leadership, and Excellence

02/26/2026

Broker | Instructor | Mentor | Past President

In the North Alabama real estate community, some names are synonymous with integrity and professional standard. Kathy Mann is one of them. With a career defined by a “service-above-self” mentality, Kathy has transitioned from serving her country and saving lives in healthcare to becoming one of the most influential leaders in Alabama real estate.

A Foundation of Service

Kathy’s journey began with a commitment to duty, serving as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army Reserves. This discipline followed her into her first civilian career as a pediatric oncology and neonatal intensive care nurse. After graduating cum laude from Prairie View A&M University, Kathy navigated the high-stakes environments of critical care—experiences that forged the empathy, patience, and resilience she brings to every real estate transaction today.

Breaking Barriers & Leading the Industry

Since entering real estate in 2005, Kathy hasn’t just participated in the industry; she has shaped it. Her uncompromised commitment to excellence led her to several historic milestones:
  • HAAR Past President: In 2016, Kathy served as the first Black Woman President of the Huntsville Area Association of REALTORS® (HAAR).
  • REALTOR® of the Year: In 2018, Kathy was recognized by her peers for her professional standards and contributions to the industry.
  • Broker Excellence Award Winner: In 2022, Kathy was honored for her superior management, mentorship, and dedication to the craft of brokerage.
  • RPAC Major Investor: A dedicated advocate for property rights and the real estate profession.

A Mentor and Educator

Kathy believes that the “Promise of Fair Housing” isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s a professional mission. As a regular instructor at HAAR, Kathy shares her deep institutional knowledge with the next generation of REALTORS®. Whether she is teaching her signature class, “Delivering the Promise of Fair Housing,” or acting as a guiding presence for association staff and colleagues, Kathy is a tireless mentor who elevates everyone around her.

Rooted in Huntsville

Despite her long list of accolades, Kathy remains most passionate about the people of North Alabama. She is a firm believer in the “friendly hometown atmosphere” of the Huntsville area and stays active in her local church and various charities.
When she isn’t advocating for her clients or leading a classroom, you’ll find Kathy enjoying the vibrant festivals and live concerts that make our region home, or spending well-deserved time with her family.
Kathy Mann remains a steadfast pillar of the North Alabama community—leading with heart, every step of the way.
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Missed the Weekly? Catch up now!

02/25/2026

Missed the weekly? Take a look below at what lead REALTOR® news in north Alabama and at HAAR this week!
  • A Legacy of Service
  • Happy Hour: Rum, Rhythm & Real Estate
  • January Fast Stats
  • Off-Season Marketing Plans
  • Don’t Wait for Better Markets
  • We Need You! Sign Up for 2026 Committees
  • SentriConnect vs. Access Codes
  • Education: Fair Housing, Free Floor Plans, Classes Thru April
READ THE WEEKLY
The Weekly is sponsored by Hays Farm:
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Celebrating HAAR’s First Black President & a Legacy of Service

02/16/2026

Trailblazing Excellence: Celebrating Clifton “Clif” Miller

This Black History Month, the Huntsville Area Association of REALTORS® (HAAR) is proud to honor a true pioneer in our industry and community: Mr. Clifton “Clif” Miller.
When we speak of “Black History,” we aren’t just looking at the distant past—we are looking at the leaders among us who broke barriers and set a new standard for excellence. Clif Miller is a testament to that legacy.

From Defending Homes to Defending Homeownership

Born and raised in Hale County, Alabama, Clif’s journey to success in real estate was paved with discipline and bravery.
Before he was a REALTOR®, he was a soldier. Clif dedicated over 20 years of his life to the U.S. Army, retiring at the rank of Major. His distinguished military career was marked by a Bronze Star, awarded for his outstanding service during the 1991 Persian Gulf War.
In 1995, Clif transitioned from defending homes to defending homeownership. He brought that same military precision, integrity, and heart to his second career in real estate.

A Historic Presidency & A Record of Excellence

In 2008, Clif Miller made history as our first African American President in HAAR history. His leadership during that year wasn’t just symbolic—it was transformational.
His commitment to the industry continued after his presidency to earn Mr. Miller the 2013 HAAR REALTOR® of the Year award.
This honor, one of the highest a member can receive, recognized his professional achievements, his “REALTOR® Spirit,” and his tireless work in civic and community affairs.

Leadership Beyond the Sale

Clif’s impact stretches far beyond the closing table. A man of deep faith and community conviction, he has served on numerous boards and played a pivotal role at the state level as a Commissioner for the Alabama Real Estate Commission (AREC).
His life is a masterclass in “Service Above Self.” Whether it is through his leadership in the Madison Civitan Club, his lifelong brotherhood in Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., or his active involvement in his church, Clif has spent decades building up the people around him.

A Legacy in Motion

Today, we salute Clif Miller not just for the history he made, but for the path he cleared for future generations of real estate professionals. He proved that excellence knows no color, and that leadership is defined by how much you give back to the community that sustains you.

Please join us in celebrating a veteran, a leader, and a true Alabama icon: Mr. Clifton Miller.

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 Reflections on Black History Month 

02/06/2026

A note from HAAR & ValleyMLS President Regina Mitchell on Black History Month

Dear Members of the Huntsville Association of Realtors,
As we celebrate Black History Month, I am honored to reflect on the profound impact African Americans have made—not only in our nation’s history, but within our communities, our industry, and the real estate profession as a whole.
Black History Month is a time to recognize resilience, innovation, and leadership in the face of adversity. It is also a time to acknowledge the pioneers who paved the way for equitable housing opportunities and fair access to homeownership—cornerstones of the American dream. Their perseverance laid the foundation for the work we continue today.
As an African American woman and the President of the Huntsville Association of Realtors, I am especially proud to lead an organization that values diversity, inclusion, and opportunity for all. Our strength as an association lies in our ability to come together, learn from one another, and serve our clients and community with integrity and purpose.
Let this month serve as both a celebration and a call to action—encouraging us to honor the past, engage in meaningful conversations, and remain committed to advancing fair housing and equal opportunity. By doing so, we ensure that the legacy of those who came before us continues to shape a stronger, more inclusive future.
Thank you for your continued dedication to our profession and to the communities we proudly serve.
With gratitude and pride,

 

Regina Mitchell
President
Huntsville Association of Realtors®
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Introducing the ValleyMLS Photographer Marketplace

12/19/2025

Introducing the Valley MLS Photographer Marketplace

We’re excited to bring you a powerful new tool designed to save you time and help you secure the best media for your listings: the ValleyMLS Photographer Marketplace!
We know that quickly finding a reliable photographer is critical in our fast-moving market. That’s why we’ve partnered with CubiCasa to create a centralized marketplace where you can source local real estate photographers with complete confidence.
This new Photographer Marketplace is built specifically to address your biggest pain points when sourcing listing media:
  • Streamlined Discovery of Photographers: Stop wasting time searching through general results. The Marketplace gives you a streamlined way to discover all of your local real estate photographers in one place.
  • Access to a Massive, Vetted Network: You now have easy access to a huge pool of talent! We have close to 10,000 photographers who have already created detailed profiles—many of them serving your local market—ready to take on your next listing.
  • Find a Trusted Real Estate Photographer: We make vetting easy. The directory features detailed profiles with live, daily updates of recent listing shoots, clear specialties, verified service areas, and a direct contact form. This transparency makes it simple for you to find a trusted real estate photographer and ensure you’re getting the right service every time.
Ready to Find Your Next Photographer? 📷 Your new resource is live and ready to use now at https://www.cubi.casa/find/ValleyMLS.
The CubiCasa Photographer Marketplace is also available in your MLS Technology Toolbox on your dashboard!
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2025 ValleyMLS Wrapped

12/17/2025

2025 was a governance-heavy year, marked by intentional restructuring and cleanup. The Board approved multiple bylaw revisions addressing Executive Committee authority, officer vacancies, board meeting procedures, and special meetings. A significant long-term change was adopted to transition Director terms from three years to two years, with staggered terms beginning in 2027 to improve continuity and succession planning. The ValleyMLS Director election policy was formally aligned with its bylaws to support this transition.
The Board also approved a formal title change from Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to Association Executive (AE) across governing documents, reinforcing the Association/MLS leadership structure and clarifying operational authority.

Financial Position & Oversight

Financially, 2025 was strong and stabilizing, despite elevated legal and consulting activity.
  • HAAR, ValleyMLS, and 535 Monroe Street LLC all consistently outperformed or exceeded budget expectations throughout the year.
  • ValleyMLS experienced strong net income driven by quarterly fees and controlled expenses, while HAAR benefited from steady MLS royalty income and improved investment performance.
  • Net assets increased substantially year-over-year, and investment strategy was adjusted to raise the equity allocation ceiling from 60% to 70% for long-term growth.
The Board also oversaw both a standard audit and a forensic audit covering activity from 2023 forward, reflecting a strong emphasis on transparency and fiduciary responsibility.

MLS Policy, Forms & Technology

2025 included major MLS operational and compliance updates, many driven by state law changes and industry standards:
  • Adoption and revision of multiple forms, including Exclusive Buyer Agency, Exclusive Right to Sell, Transaction Brokerage (renamed Transaction Facilitator), Inspection Addendum, and Coming Soon Addendum.
  • Adjustments to DOM rules for Contingent and Pending listings to improve data accuracy.
  • Approval of Forewarn as a new member safety benefit.
  • Transition from Zeck to OnBoard for governance management .
These actions significantly modernized MLS operations while maintaining compliance with Alabama law and NAR guidance.

Strategic Initiatives & Partnerships

A key strategic focus in 2025 was data sharing and regional collaboration. The Board authorized entering into a Data Share Agreement with FMLS and Greater Alabama MLS. A dedicated workgroup was formed earlier in the year to study the implications, risks, and benefits before approval, demonstrating a methodical approach to expansion .
Additionally, the Caravan Workgroup was approved, laying groundwork for renewed member engagement and listing exposure initiatives.

Leadership, Staffing & HR

Leadership transition and workforce stabilization were central themes:
  • An extension AE Search was approved for WAV Group consulting support through Q1 2026 to assist with the AE search.
  • A comprehensive Employee Handbook was approved, reflecting updated HR practices and compliance standards.
  • A third-party HR consulting firm was selected to support staff and volunteer leadership governance .

Education, Advocacy & Member Engagement

Education remained a core value in 2025:
  • Expanded CE offerings, GRI courses, and specialty designations (MRP, RENE).
  • Significant training related to new Alabama legislation (HB230 / HB382).
  • Continued emphasis on Fairhaven and ethics education to meet new NAR requirements .
Advocacy and outreach included ARPAC fundraising efforts, Realtor® community service initiatives, and active engagement in local elections and public policy.

2025 at a Glance

2025 was a year of correction, alignment, and preparation.
The Board focused on:
  • Strengthening governance and due process
  • Stabilizing finances and investments
  • Modernizing MLS rules, forms, and technology
  • Preparing for leadership transition
  • Positioning HAAR and ValleyMLS for sustainable growth beyond 2026
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