AHMED ELBATRAWY

AHMED ELBATRAWY

What Exactly Is Duplicate Listings, and How Can the MLS Solve This Issue?

As a real estate professional, I have come across the issue of duplicate listings multiple times. Duplicate listings are various entries of the same property in the same category. This issue can cause confusion, skew market statistics, and adversely affect Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) reports. In this article, I will explore what duplicate listings are and how they can be solved through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).

The MLS is a powerful tool that allows real estate professionals to share information about properties with each other. However, duplicate listings can cause problems for the market and real estate professionals. Understanding how duplicate listings occur and how they can be resolved is essential. In this article, I will provide information on identifying duplicate listings and removing them from the MLS.

Removing duplicate listings from the MLS can ensure that market statistics are accurate and that real estate professionals can access reliable information. By using the MLS to identify and remove duplicate listings, we can work together to create a more efficient and effective real estate market. In the following sections, I will provide more information on how to identify and remove duplicate listings and the benefits of doing so.

Understanding Duplicate Listings

As a real estate professional, I have come across the issue of duplicate listings quite frequently. Duplicate listings are entries for the same property that appear more than once in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). This can happen for various reasons, which I will discuss in the following subsections.

Causes of Duplicate Listings

Here are some of the most common causes of duplicate listings:

  • Input errors: Sometimes, agents accidentally enter the same property multiple times due to typing or other mistakes.
  • System glitches: Technical issues with the MLS system can also cause duplicate listings.
  • Multiple agents: If multiple agents work on the same property, they may inadvertently enter a duplicate listing.
  • Multiple MLSs: If a property is listed in numerous MLSs, it can result in duplicate listings.

Impacts on Market and Search Results

Duplicate listings can negatively impact the real estate market and search results. Here are a few examples:

  • Misleading information: Duplicate listings can confuse buyers and agents, who may need to know which listing is accurate.
  • Skewed statistics: Duplicate listings can also skew market statistics, making it difficult to assess market trends accurately.
  • Duplicate listings can also adversely affect Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) reports, which can impact the accuracy of property valuations.
  • Wasted time and resources: Agents may save time sorting through duplicate listings to find the correct information.

To prevent duplicate listings, the MLS should have a system that detects and removes them automatically. Additionally, agents should be trained to avoid input errors and to communicate with each other to avoid multiple entries for the same property. By addressing the issue of duplicate listings, we can ensure that the real estate market operates more efficiently and effectively.

Role of MLS in Managing Listings

As a Multiple Listing Service (MLS), we play a crucial role in managing listings and ensuring that they are accurate and up-to-date. The MLS provides a centralized platform where brokers and agents can list properties and share information. By ensuring that all parties to a real estate transaction have access to the same information, miscommunications and disputes may be avoided.

Standardization by RESO

Following the guidelines established by the Real Estate Standards Organization (RESO) is one method we assist with listing management. A nonprofit group called RESO creates and advances industry standards for the real estate sector. By using these standards, data consistency and ease of sharing across many systems are improved.

By adhering to RESO standards, we can ensure that our data is accurate and up-to-date. This can help to prevent duplicate listings and other errors that can cause confusion and lead to lost opportunities.

MLS Data Integrity Measures

Another way we help manage listings is by implementing data integrity measures. These measures help ensure that the data in our system is accurate and up-to-date. For example, we have policies in place to prevent duplicate listings and ensure that listings are removed when they are no longer available.

We also have systems to monitor our data and identify potential issues. For example, we may use automated tools to identify listings that have been on the market for an unusually long or have inconsistent data. This can help us to identify potential errors and take action to correct them.

Overall, our goal as an MLS is to provide a reliable and accurate source of information for brokers, agents, and consumers. By adhering to RESO standards and implementing data integrity measures, we can help to prevent duplicate listings and other errors that can cause confusion and lead to lost opportunities.

Technological Solutions for Duplicate Listings

I recognize the value of having current, reliable information on properties in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) as a real estate agent. Inaccurate data and confusion brought on by duplicate listings can hurt the real estate market. Thankfully, there are technical solutions out there that can assist in resolving this problem.

Automated Merge Tools

One effective solution is the use of automated merge tools. These tools can quickly and easily identify duplicate listings and merge them into one cohesive listing. This can save agents time and effort, as they no longer have to search for and merge duplicate listings manually. Additionally, automated merge tools can help ensure all relevant information, such as property details, images, and reviews, is included in the merged listing.

Innovations in Listing Management

Another solution is the use of innovations in listing management. For example, Google Maps allows agents to claim and manage their business listings directly from the platform. This can help ensure that all information about the business is accurate and up-to-date, reducing the likelihood of duplicate listings. Many MLS platforms also incorporate advanced search algorithms that can automatically identify and merge duplicate listings.

In conclusion, the MLS can benefit significantly from technological solutions that can solve the issue of duplicate listings. Automated merge tools and innovations in listing management are just two examples of the many solutions available. By utilizing these tools, agents can ensure that their listings are accurate and up-to-date, which can help improve the real estate market.

Best Practices for Realtors and Brokers

As a realtor or broker, ensuring that your listings are accurate and up-to-date is crucial. This not only helps to avoid duplicate listings but also helps to maintain the integrity of the MLS. Here are some best practices to follow:

Accurate Listing Entry

  • Ensure all necessary information is entered accurately, including property address, price, and description.
  • Include high-quality photos that accurately represent the property.
  • Upload all relevant documents, such as property disclosures and inspection reports.
  • Use clear and concise language in the property description, avoiding exaggerated or false claims.

Monitoring and Updating Information

  • Regularly monitor your listings to ensure that all information is accurate and up-to-date.
  • Update your listings promptly when there are changes, such as price reductions or new photos.
  • Remove listings promptly when they are no longer available.

By following these best practices, you can ensure that your listings are accurate and up-to-date, which helps prevent duplicate listings and maintain the integrity of the MLS.

Enhancing Visibility and Exposure

 

Strategies for Effective Listings

When creating a listing, it is essential to be thorough and accurate. Detailed information about the property can help attract severe buyers and reduce the likelihood of duplicate listings. Some strategies for effective listings include:

  • Including high-quality photos and videos that showcase the property’s unique features
  • Writing a compelling property description that highlights the property’s most attractive qualities
  • Providing accurate information about the property’s location, size, and amenities
  • Updating the listing regularly to reflect any changes in the property’s status or price

By creating a comprehensive and accurate listing, you can increase your chances of attracting the right buyers and avoid the need for duplicate listings.

Leveraging Local Search and Google

In addition to creating effective listings, leveraging local search and Google can help increase your visibility and exposure. Here are some tips for making the most of these tools:

  • Claim your business on Google My Business and optimize your listing with accurate information, photos, and reviews
  • Use local keywords in your listings to help attract buyers who are searching for properties in your area
  • Make sure your website is mobile-friendly and optimized for local search
  • Consider using paid advertising on Google to increase your visibility and reach a wider audience

These tools can increase your visibility and attract more buyers without resorting to duplicate listings.

Avoiding duplicate listings is essential for standing out in a crowded market and attracting serious buyers. Creating effective listings and leveraging local search and Google can enhance your visibility and exposure and increase your chances of success in the real estate industry.

Picture of Ahmed ElBatrawy

Ahmed ElBatrawy

Real estate visionary Ahmed Elbatrawy has successfully closed more than $1 billion worth of real estate deals. He is well-known for being the creator of Arab MLS and for being an innovator in the digital space.  Ahmed Elbatrawy is the only owner of the CoreLogic real estate software platform MATRIX MLS rights.

Ahmed ElBatrawy

Real estate visionary Ahmed Elbatrawy has successfully closed more than $1 billion worth of real estate deals. He is well-known for being the creator of Arab MLS and for being an innovator in the digital space.  Ahmed Elbatrawy is the only owner of the CoreLogic real estate software platform MATRIX MLS rights.

Shopping Basket

Arab MLS: Technology Shaping the Future Event

Register now to secure your spot at this exclusive event, and don’t forget to check your email for your attendance confirmation!