Industry Insights, Reports & Thought-Leadership
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Why MLSs Need MCP Servers: Maintaining Control in the AI Era
The Biggest Shift in MLS Infrastructure Since IDX is just beginning—Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers are emerging as the new standard for powering AI-driven real estate tools. While some brokerages and technology companies are already exploring independent solutions, MLSs have a unique opportunity to lead this evolution by providing AI-ready access without giving up control. This WAV Group report explains how MLSs can implement MCP servers to stay at the center of innovation, while maintaining the governance, compliance, and data protections that define their value.Inside this report, you’ll learn:
- What MCP servers are—and why AI tools depend on them
- How MLSs can support modern workflows without compromising compliance
- The business case for MCP: reducing costs, enabling innovation, and attracting partners
- A practical roadmap to pilot and implement MCP safely and strategically
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This national survey of 400 U.S. homeowners reveals how concerns about natural disasters are shaping real estate decisions — and what MLSs and brokers can do to help their agents address those concerns. The findings show that rising insurance costs, questions about property value, and uncertainty around disaster response are top of mind for consumers. Most importantly, the majority of homeowners believe it’s the real estate agent’s responsibility to disclose flood risk. That expectation puts agents on the front line for risk conversations and makes MLS and broker support critical. Inside, you’ll find actionable recommendations for providing agents with the data, education, and disclosure best practices they need to meet consumer expectations. From integrating risk information into listings, to offering training on interpreting flood maps, to developing member resources for disclosure compliance, this 10-page report offers practical steps you can implement immediately. Download your copy today and use it to strengthen trust, improve transparency, and position your agents as informed, reliable guides in an era of heightened risk awareness.
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Get a free copy of the report with discount code FLOOR PLAN at checkout! Listings with floor plans aren’t just a nice touch—they’re a proven driver of results. Our new WAV Group Floor Plan Consumer Interest Survey reveals that adding a floor plan can mean higher engagement, more time spent on the page, and stronger buyer interest. In today’s market, where every click and every lead counts, this is one of the simplest ways to give your listings an edge. You wouldn’t upload a listing without a picture, would you? Floor plans are the next step in consumer demand as technology has improved and the results speak for themselves. The data is clear: 82% of consumers want the real estate industry to require floor plans on every listing. This report breaks down what features buyers value most, how floor plans influence perceptions of professionalism, and how leading MLSs are already making them standard. If you’re looking for actionable insight to improve listing performance and deliver what consumers are asking for, you’ll find it here. Download for free with code - Floor Plan - at checkout.
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Site licenses have created a circumstance where the many (all MLS subscribers or brokerage agents) are paying for services used by the few that use a service.
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The 2021 WAV Group Transaction Management Interoperability Study revealed brokers have strong interest in the ability for Digital Transaction Management systems to pass data seamlessly for the brokerages representing two sides of a transaction. Today, brokers have to enter data in as many as 9 or 10 systems, creating inefficiency, added cost and increased chances of inaccurate data. According to the study, nearly 3/4 of brokers would like to enter data into one system, either at the MLS or brokerage, and then seamlessly pass the information to other systems. Use Promo Code: WAV2022 through the end of the year to get free access to this report.
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In this paper WAV Group provides an overview and analysis of the five key tools available today to enable MLSs to provide Data Distribution Services: Trestle (CoreLogic), Spark (FBS Data), Bridge Interactive (Zillow Group), The MLS Grid, and MLS Aligned.
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Ocusell is a new technology firm that is solving an old problem for the real estate industry. Learn more about their solution by using the free coupon code - Ocusell
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Brokers continue to invest thousands in productivity tools designed to help agents succeed—but many of those tools go underused. This new WAV Group study explores the growing disconnect between the technologies brokerages provide and the agent experience of accessing and using them. Based on a national broker survey, the findings reveal how fragmented systems and multiple logins are holding back adoption, training, and overall effectiveness. The report also highlights growing interest in centralized dashboards that provide single sign-on access to essential tools and real-time business insights. Nearly two-thirds of brokers believe a dashboard that consolidates listings, commissions, financial performance, market share, and other key metrics in one place would create a powerful competitive advantage. If your brokerage is serious about helping agents win and maximizing your technology investments, this study offers a clear path forward. Use discount code "Dashboard" at checkout for your free copy.
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The WAV Group 2023 Brokerage Technology Study is a comprehensive survey that provides insights about the impact and perceived business generation value of their respective technology suites. This report is an essential resource for brokers and MLSs looking to stay ahead of the competition by improving their technology solutions, addressing issues with data integration, and increasing technology engagement. This study covers technology offerings, satisfaction, perceived value, interoperability, and technology awareness and engagement. The 2023 Brokerage Technology Study is now available for purchase, providing access to valuable insights and actionable recommendations that can help drive business growth. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain a competitive edge in the real estate market. Order your copy of the WAV Group 2023 Brokerage Technology Study today! For a look at how technology trends have changed, previous editions of the WAV Group Brokerage Technology Study can be found found here: 2014 WAV Group Brokerage Technology Study 2010 WAV Group Brokerage Technology Study
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Unlocking the Power of Virtual Office Websites for Real Estate Success
The real estate industry is entering a new era where data access, client relationships, and online engagement are more important than ever. Virtual Office Websites (VOWs) give brokers and agents a unique advantage, offering consumers richer MLS information while building stronger, more direct relationships. WAV Group’s latest report explores how VOWs transform traditional websites into dynamic platforms for lead generation, client service, and sustainable business growth.
Download the report to discover how a VOW can help you stay compliant, serve your clients better, and secure your position in today’s evolving market.
