MLS, or multiple service listings, can be a key guide for individuals looking to sell or buy New York real estate. Anyone in the real estate business should know how to avail him or herself of this extremely useful real estate market tool.

How Does the New York Multiple Listing Service (MLS) Work?

If you have a home for sale in New York, your real estate agent can list that home on the local MLS database if he is part of that network. Similarly, if you are looking to buy a home in New York, your real estate agent can search the MLS database to find what homes are available to meet your needs. How do you know if your real estate agent has access to a New York MLS database? Ask.

What Does the New York MLS Have to Do With REBNY?

If you are interested in buying or selling real estate outside the Manhattan area, such as in one of the outer boroughs or in Long Island, there is access to the MLS database through your real estate agent. If you are dealing with real estate in Manhattan, you will have to go through REBNY. REBNY is the Real Estate Board of New York, an elite real estate trade organization dealing with New York City real estate. Rather than participating in an MLS database, Manhattan has the RLS, the REBNY Listing Service. If you are interested in taking advantage of a multiple listing service in the city of Manhattan, you will have to work with a real estate agent who is affiliated with REBNY.

How Can a New York Home Buyer or Home Seller Take Advantage of the MLS or RLS?

There is no direct access to the MLS or RLS — these are listings available exclusively to real estate agents. If your real estate transaction will be taking place with Manhattan property, you will want to select a real estate agent affiliated with REBNY. This real estate agent can then list your property on the service if you are selling, or find you a property if you are buying. Outside of Manhattan, you will simply have to find a real estate agent who has access to a New York MLS. Your best bet will probably be to go with an officially accredited Realtor, a member of the National Association of Realtors. Their website at Realtor.com can help you get started.

Does One Really Need the New York MLS Listings?

Selling your home in New York without access to the RLS or MLS can be difficult, since agents look to these listings first to find homes. Similarly, buying New York real estate without access to multiple listings will make it hard to know the breadth of options that are available and difficult to gauge how much you should expect to pay for the home. Before signing with any real estate agent, make sure he or she has access to multiple listings for a more prosperous real estate experience.