3 Western MLSs launch ‘Orion’ data exchange 

The growing trend of data sharing among multiple listing services is continuing, with a new agreement announced this week by three big players in the Western U.S.

Meanwhile, one of Florida's largest MLSs has announced an expansion into yet another county in the Sunshine State.

3 MLSs launch Orion Real Estate Data Exchange

On Sept. 23, MetroList, Northern Nevada Regional MLS (NNRMLS) and Oregon Data Share unveiled a multi-state data share initiative called the Orion Real Estate Data Exchange. The program's geographic area includes portions of California, Nevada and Oregon.

'Practical access' now …: The goal of the initiative, according to a joint news release, is to "deliver a modern, secure, and scalable platform" — one that could see other MLSs opting in down the line.

"We're starting with practical access today while building the infrastructure for a much deeper level of data sharing tomorrow," NNRMLS CEO George Pickard said. This initial phase, he added, will provide members of each MLS "access to listing information across participating markets in a professional user environment" using Rapattoni-powered MLS tools.

… and 'a more seamless experience' later: The next phase of Orion "will bring that data directly into each organization's primary MLS system in a structured way, creating a more seamless experience for our members," according to Pickard.

California, Nevada and Oregon share a fair amount of consumer mobility, the announcement noted. Citing U.S. Census Bureau data, the trio of MLSs estimated that around 129,000 people moved between the three states in 2024, with California accounting for the biggest share of movers.

The Orion initiative should help the members of participating MLSs strengthen referral connections with other real estate professionals who serve the markets their clients are moving to, the MLSs said.

Stellar MLS now operating in 19+ counties

Also this week, Stellar MLS has announced that it is expanding into another Florida county.

Stellar will become the exclusive MLS provider for the West Pasco Hernando Realtors (WPHR), a new organization that formed in the wake of the recent merger between the West Pasco Board of Realtors and the Hernando County Association of Realtors. Hernando County's single-association MLS is discontinuing as part of the recent developments, according to a news release.

WPHR CEO Brenda Rabbitt said the partnership reflects her organization's "direct commitment to providing the advanced resources and expansive market reach our Realtors asked for, ensuring a more transparent, connected, and superior experience for the consumers and communities we serve."

"By bringing our organizations together," added Stellar MLS CEO Shayne Fairley, "we are creating greater opportunities for West Pasco Hernando Realtors members and existing Stellar customers through broader access to inventory and enhanced technology across a highly connected real estate network."