CMLS adds policy pro to C-suite, Bright launches data share
The MLS trade association has appointed Rene Galicia as chief operating officer to oversee key strategic initiatives; Bright’s partnership with CVR goes live.
Editor's note: From large, regional players to locals focused on a single market, multiple listings services are the backbone of residential real estate. Here we highlight some of the latest news about the 500-plus MLSs that are shaping the future of the industry.
Bright MLS exec moves to CMLS
The Council of Multiple Listing Services has a new chief operating officer. Rene Galicia is joining CMLS — an organization supporting 230 MLSs across North America — to help members navigate "complex landscapes while championing transparency, efficiency, and pro-competitive practices," CMLS said in a news release.
An attorney and MLS veteran, Galicia most recently served as EVP, Policy Counsel & Strategic Partnerships at Bright MLS. In addition to providing strategic and legal support, he led customer engagement and policy initiatives at Bright. Previously, he was director of MLS engagement at NAR, and he also held multiple roles at California Regional MLS spanning compliance, licensing and operations.
As he steps into his new role, Galicia said he is looking forward "to driving CMLS's mission of fostering a healthy real estate marketplace." A key focus for the COO will be strengthening CMLS's position as "the engine behind a fair, transparent, efficient housing market," the organization said.
Galicia's "extensive experience in MLS policy, operational excellence, and his passion for advancing the industry make him the perfect leader to help us deliver exceptional value to our members," CEO Denee Evans said in the announcement.
Bright + CVR partnership goes live
Bright MLS, which serves more than 100,000 subscribers across the Mid-Atlantic region, and Richmond, Virginia-based CVR MLS will now be sharing listings data.
Bright announced on May 14 that the data share had been activated and is available to members of both organizations. Data share agreements "reflect our commitment to optimizing the MLS experience for our subscribers, ensuring you're able to serve your clients with ease across city and county boundaries and tap into key business opportunities within a broader service area," Bright said in the announcement.
A partnership with Williamsburg MLS, which covers additional Virginia counties, is expected to be finalized later this summer, Bright added.
Data sharing has proven to be a popular strategy for MLSs that want to expand their reach while retaining autonomy. Several other partnerships have been announced this year: