The conversation around artificial intelligence in real estate has moved beyond speculation. MLSs are now facing practical questions: Which AI features should we deploy? How do we protect our data? And what infrastructure decisions will define our role in an AI-driven market?
To explore these questions, we sat down with Lucie Fortier and Jeff Fullbright from Intercontinental Exchange (ICE), the company behind Paragon® Connect MLS, a platform serving MLSs across the country. Our discussion covered everything from agent-facing AI tools to emerging data access models like MCP servers, and what “AI sovereignty” really means for MLSs.
Why This Matters Now
Paragon isn’t new to AI integration—they’ve worked with partners like Restb.ai for years. But the current moment represents something different. As Fortier and Fullbright explain in our conversation, MLSs are moving from curiosity to deployment, and the questions they’re asking have evolved from “Should we use AI?” to “How do we govern it?”
The interview explores:
- Agent use cases: Which AI-powered features are being prioritized, listing input automation, CMA creation, client assistance and how they’re being integrated into daily workflows
- MLS collaboration models: How Paragon is designing AI capabilities that can work for anyone; from small MLSs with limited tech teams to some of the largest MLSs in the country
- Data governance and control: What protections are in place when AI systems access listing data, and how MLSs maintain control over their data assets
- Emerging infrastructure: The potential role of MCP servers as a new data access layer designed specifically for AI systems, distinct from traditional IDX feeds and WebAPIs
- Strategic positioning: How AI features can drive agent adoption and engagement, not just serve power users
The Data Access Question
One of the most compelling parts of our conversation centers on a challenge many MLS executives are facing right now: AI vendors are approaching MLSs asking for data access, but the traditional IDX framework wasn’t built for AI systems. Fortier and Fullbright discuss whether MCP servers could offer MLSs a way to provide secure access with usage tracking, licensing terms, and granular controls.
This isn’t just a technical question. It’s a strategic one about how MLSs position themselves as AI transforms real estate workflows.
Who Should Listen
This recording is essential for:
- MLS executives and board members evaluating AI strategy and vendor partnerships
- Technology directors responsible for platform decisions and data governance
- MLS leaders thinking about competitive positioning and agent value propositions
- Anyone involved in MLS data policy who needs to understand how AI is changing data access requirements
The tone is conversational and practical, not a vendor pitch, but a substantive discussion about the real decisions MLSs are facing as AI capabilities mature.
Ready to dig deeper? The full interview offers specific insights into Paragon’s roadmap, lessons from pilot partners, and Fortier and Fullbright’s perspective on what every MLS should be thinking about today.
Questions or want to continue the conversation? This interview is part of an ongoing series exploring how AI is reshaping MLS infrastructure and strategy. We welcome your thoughts and feedback.
