NAR Begins Revocation of Phoenix Realtors' Charter - The Implications for Realtors and Independents

[@JonniRealtor]

We no longer have the form SELM. So do we now use the MLSA form for coming soons? Thank you so much!

[@BalboaRealEstate]

That is notated on the MLSA form, but you are still expected to enter it into the MLS under "coming soon" status unless the seller tells you not to.

[@JonniRealtor]

@ I really appreciate your clarity and great information.Thank you!

[@GlamJouJou]

How can a real estate agent be independent without a broker? Please advise.

[@BalboaRealEstate]

A salesperson needs to affiliate with a broker, but that broker should can be independent (not a realtor or association member.)

[@CarloCoats]

Regardless if you choose the MLS Choice ($249) or the Traditional REALTOR Membership ($511), you will still need to pay the ARMLS Subscription fee. It's not offered free by joining the Traditional REALTOR Membership.

[@BalboaRealEstate]

Yes, I'm aware. But the problem is the Phoenix Realtors acts as a gatekeeper to the MLS. There is no direct MLS members without the local board getting their piece.

[@CarloCoats]

Correct, but that goes for every other local association in AZ, not just Phx REALTORS. Unfortunately, there's no way to access the MLS in AZ without joining the local, state, and national associations (all 3 memberships are mandatory for MLS access). With MLS Choice, Phx REALTORS is now allowing agents to access the MLS without forcing them to also have NAR and state association Memberships. MLS choice removes the NAR and the state associations from the picture. Essentially giving Phx agents a choice and evaluate for themselves if joining the NAR and state has any value at all.

[@BalboaRealEstate]

@@CarloCoats Yes, but you see the problem remains, MLS access is controlled by the local board and they charge for it. I get your point that it's better than nothing, but it's still not ideal and I bet NAR will shut it down. in CA we have been able to do MLS only membership as long as I remember. Surprised AZ doesn't have the same thing.

[@carmengabriel4]

I just paid the MLS choice, we'll see what happens.

[@BalboaRealEstate]

It's too bad that they don't let you go to the MLS directly without paying a gatekeeper. Are the forms you have access to with that membership the same as what Arizona Realtors are using?

[@carmengabriel4]

@@BalboaRealEstate No, they have new forms but they look better. I am watching the YT 2 hour training. With the money I saved maybe I could pay for the California RE license. I also have to pay for my LO licenses for Arizona and California and my e&o fees for 2025.

[@MR-nh9ko]

I’m a new agent and I don’t know if there is any other way around honestly I don’t want to be part of the Realtor’s association, is too expensive here in California I just pay for NAR$201 CAR$237 PSAR$180 first quarter MLS $177 Sentry lock $114

[@GlamJouJou]

Exactly how I’m feeling, I was still there $1184 altogether but we have to pay again in the MLS in April another I think $400 How do I find a broker that accepts my state MLS?

[@BalboaRealEstate]

@@GlamJouJou You can check the MLS's roster or join an independent brokerage: CavourRealty.com

[@MR-nh9ko]

I’m a new agent and IDK if there is any other way around honestly is too expensive here in California I just pay for NAR$201 CAR$237 PSAR$180 first quarter MLS $177 Sentry lock $114 And They include an additional $59 On Your invoice as “OPTIONAL“ 2025 RAF (Optional) ** 2025 CAR HAF (Optional) that if you don’t read carefully or edit the payment they will charged you for it

[@BalboaRealEstate]

I usually advise new agents to hold off paying dues until they have a client, although I know that some brokers (not me) require agents to join right away. The alternative is work with a brokerage that is independent and not a member of the association of realtors.

[@carmengabriel4]

@@BalboaRealEstate Do you charge hire fee and upfront e&o fees?

[@BalboaRealEstate]

@@carmengabriel4 Nope, just a low flat fee whenever a transaction closes. that's it.

[@MR-nh9ko]

@@BalboaRealEstate yeah I’m getting a little discouraged bc I haven’t sold anything yet and I’m spending too much on dues plus the monthly dues at the Office :( is a learning Experience thank you for your advice.