So far it would seem that your view of not being in favor of the statewide MLS is in the majority.

As history would indicate, takes years to become a successful MLS provider. Furthermore, FBS, FNIS, Marketlinx, and Rappattoni are bounding in system developments. It is a difficult fight to win MLS clients.

What is most interesting of note is that MRIS – the provider of CARETS database has done an excellent job of building the largest and most successful MLS database in history. Hurray for them – I have not heard even the slightest peep of dissatisfaction with their service.

I am not “sold” on the newly promised Statewide MLS. I am much more in favor of a regional MLS or County MLS system. I work in a rural area so the closest competing MLS is more than 30 miles away, so I really do not see the benefit of a Statewide MLS. I would much rather favor reciprocal agreements to join another Board at a greatly reduced rate, when necessary.

I’m not sold on the benefits of CAL REDD, at all. And, I don’t think I’m the only one…

I don’t think anyone gives the existing MLS leadership in California, and the rest of the country, the credit it deserves for bringing the real estate industry in to the internet age.

The core concept here is “MLS of Choice.” Associations and MLSs should always be considering what is the best service offering for their members. CalREDD is a natural consideration in California – and there are a number of other great choices which include Rapattoni, Marketlinx, Fidelity, MLSListings.com, FlexMLS and many many other popular systems in use throughout the state. (sorry for not mentioning every MLS vendor here – no slight intended).

There are three key components of being an MLS vendor – service, features, price. Putting service first and price last was intentional.

CalREDD is in the early stages of producing a suite of comprehensive MLS features. People who have seen the product report favorably on the product thus far. Service, Price and ongoing development is the focus of CalREDD today. Like all product companies, they have a product and customer development path and they are on it.

There are some tiny MLSs with limited product functionality that may be better off with CalREDD than what they have now. As CalREDD grows their system to meet the needs of the large MLSs, they may add layers of product features for free that the small MLSs cannot afford from their vendor today.

Choosing a new MLS service provider is always a risk – but hey – sometimes risk takers get the greatest rewards – and sometimes they crash and burn. I cannot recall a complete MLS failure – anyone have any war stories to share?

The tough questions should always be asked about a company’s viability, financial strength, etc… The political aspirations of a few REALTORS who want a committee appointment or a directorship should not take precedent over a sound decision making process — if only that would be the case!

Early reviews say it looks good. Many worry about scalability and service levels. Others are on the outside looking carefully and pondering how long it will take for CalREDD to be completely integrated to important third party apps?

His actual quote was – “If you only have a hammer, you tend to see every problem as a nail.”