Sequim real estate agents: NWMLS and the new Matrix system rocks!

I've been using the new NWMLS Matrix system and it's awesome! Very fast, accurate data, nice presentation of the data with several choices of how you view the listings. I love it!

And OLS agents... just so you know, NWMLS is only $30/month, and you get way better tools, data, etc.

I've used both NWMLS and OLS for the last 4 years, and what NWMLS offers FAR SURPASSES what we get with OLS, and for 25% less!

Why are we saddled with 2 MLS systems in Clallam County, when it only makes sense to consolidate everything into 1 great system that costs less? It just makes good business sense...

What are 'the powers that be' afraid of? Why won't they let us utilize one excellent MLS data provider so that we can provide better service to our clients, help protect property values in Clallam County, and save money in the process?

Maybe the real question is this: What are they protecting and who is benefiting from keeping OLS alive?

OLS is a cumbersome and archaic system compared with NWMLS... and ironically, it's kinda funny that the 'OLS only' proponents use the 'Forms' portion of NWMLS already. Why not take the next logical step and make NWMLS the only MLS data service in Sequim? It just makes sense...

I'm a paying member of our local association, and as such I expect the Board members to support and represent the interests of ALL IT'S MEMBERS, and not what's just in the best interests of the Board.

I know I'm stirring the pot, but it has to happen. It's absolutely RIDICULOUS that a small community like Sequim has 2 MLS systems running. And we as agents continue to allow this to happen. In my past conversations with 'Board' members regarding this topic, all they have to say is 'vote in someone else if you don't like how things are done'. Really? We've been trying to do that for the last few years, and they've made that virtually impossible. It's just more of the same 'good old boy' system, small town mentality... 'It's always been that way, and that's just the way it is'. Wow, really? Unfortunately, sad but true.

And I recently heard that the Board is considering renewing the OLS contract for another 3 years! Come on people, it's time for change!

I have been a real estate agent for more than 20 years, and an appraiser for more than 17 years, I've worked in 2 different areas in Northern California, and 2 different areas in Washington state, and I've been a member of a few different MLS associations, so I have a little bit of experience with several MLS services.

I have done everything I can to let 'the powers that be' know the gravity of this situation, with specific examples of how this current MLS situation is negatively impacting property values in Clallam County.

And, honestly, how can 'OLS only' agents justify to their clients that they are providing the 'best service' and 'most exposure' to their clients' listings if they are not part of NWMLS, and are not utilizing and embracing the best real estate tools available? Something to consider... 

Anyway, these are my own opinions and these are my own experiences dealing with this frustrating situation.

Let's make the changes now and do what's best for our clients and the community of Sequim.

Marti Winkler