The Value of Connection: Building Lasting Relationships Through MLS
March 21, 2025
In real estate, your success isn’t just about listings, transactions, or even market trends—it’s about long-lasting relationships. A home purchase isn’t just a financial decision; it’s a life-changing moment for buyers and sellers alike. For you, every deal is an opportunity to build trust, create lasting connections, and be a guide through a truly memorable milestone.
At Stellar MLS, we understand that connection is at the heart of everything you do. That’s why we don’t just provide data; we create the conditions for you to succeed, thrive, and serve your customers with confidence. Real estate isn’t just about a single transaction, it’s about building lasting relationships. You likely work with the same customers through multiple life stages, from purchasing a first home to upgrading, downsizing, or even investing. By fostering these long-term connections, you don’t just complete deals; you become a trusted advisor, ensuring repeat and referral business that strengthens your career over time.
Connecting Agents and Brokers to What Matters Most
A strong Multiple Listing Service isn’t just a tool, it’s a bridge. It connects agents and brokers with the right opportunities—matching buyers with homes, sellers with serious buyers, and professionals with a powerful network that keeps the real estate industry moving. With over 84,000 subscribers, Stellar MLS is one of the largest and most influential MLSs in the country, meaning more opportunities to collaborate, share insights, and ensure properties are seen by the right people at the right time.
But connection isn’t just about scale. It’s about trust. With Stellar MLS, agents and brokers gain access to the most accurate, up-to-date data, ensuring they can confidently guide their customers through the real estate journey. We safeguard this community with compliance standards that create fairness and certainty in the marketplace because trust isn’t just given; it’s earned.
More Than Data: A Culture of Service
At Stellar MLS, we believe in more than just providing listings and accurate, transparent data. We believe in being a true partner to our customers, delivering tools and support that make their jobs easier and their businesses stronger. That’s why we offer 30 + products—from prospecting tools to post-close solutions—as part of every subscription. It’s why our bilingual support team is available six days a week. And it’s why we’re always innovating, never settling for the status quo.
Because behind every transaction, there’s a story. A first-time homebuyer taking a step toward their dream. A family searching for their next chapter. An investor finding the right opportunity. And behind every story, an agent or broker is working hard to make it happen.
Why Connection Matters More Than Ever
Real estate is constantly evolving. Markets shift. Technology advances. Customer expectations change. But one thing remains the same: people need people. Buyers and sellers rely on their real estate professionals for expertise, guidance, and reassurance in uncertain moments. And real estate professionals rely on their MLS to empower them with the tools, insights, and network to serve their customers well.
At Stellar MLS, we stand for clarity, stability, and support. Because when you have the right connections, you have the power to turn dreams into reality.
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MLS expert UCO is leading the movement in U.S. and international conversations to shape the future of transparent, efficient real estate markets
It’s Monday morning, and you’re juggling multiple listings, responding to client inquiries, and preparing for a big showing. Time is of the essence. You log into your MLS, expecting the usual routine of bouncing between tabs, hunting for tools, and piecing together the resources you need. But today, something is different. Welcome to the new and improved Stellar Central—your streamlined gateway to everything you need to power up your productivity. Innovation Designed with You in Mind At Stellar MLS, we know that your success hinges on efficiency. Every second spent searching for tools or navigating a cluttered interface is a second you could be using to connect with customers, close deals, and grow your business. That’s why we’ve reimagined Stellar Central , making it more intuitive, organized, and powerful than ever before. This isn’t just an update—it’s a transformation driven by your needs, built to help you work smarter, not harder. Because we succeed when our brokers do. This Dashboard Works for You! Gone are the days of digging through multiple menus to find what you need. With the latest Stellar Central Dashboard update, you can now: View listings at a glance – Your active listings are now front and center on your dashboard homepage. No extra clicks. No wasted time. Just instant access to what matters most. Tools at your fingertips – The entire Stellar MLS product suite is now easier to navigate than ever, allowing you to manage listings, search and showcase properties, and access market data seamlessly. Because when your tools are right at your fingertips, you can focus on what truly matters—guiding buyers and sellers through one of the biggest decisions of their lives. We provide the certainty and stability you need to do your job with the confidence you deserve. Security You Can Trust You work hard to build your business, and protecting your data should never be an afterthought. That’s why Stellar MLS is continuing to prioritize security. With the implementation of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Stellar Central adds an additional layer of protection to help safeguard your account from unauthorized access. This extra security measure helps protect your listings, customer information, and market insights—so you can focus on closing deals with greater peace of mind. More Than an MLS—A True Partner Real estate is more than transactions—it’s about people, trust, and aspirations . At Stellar MLS, we don’t just provide data and tools; we provide the foundation for your success. From hands-on onboarding to dedicated local, bilingual support, we’re here to make sure you feel confident, supported, and empowered—so you can focus on what you do best: changing lives, one home at a time. Our culture is built on service , designed around you. We listen before we speak, ensuring that every update, every feature, and every decision we make is with your needs in mind. Always Looking Ahead At Stellar MLS, we believe innovation never stops. The launch of Stellar Central’s enhanced interface is just one step in our ongoing commitment to making your experience better, faster, and more intuitive. We never accept the status quo . We’re always listening, learning, and looking for ways to help you succeed in an ever-evolving market. So, as you log in today and experience the upgraded Stellar Central for yourself, know that this isn’t just about software—it’s about you . Your productivity. Your security. Your success. We’re for you. Welcome to the future of seamless MLS access. Welcome to Stellar Central. Want to see the new updates in action? Log in to Stellar Central today and experience the difference for yourself!
Every great organization is defined by the caliber of its leadership, and Stellar MLS is no exception. Today, we’re thrilled to share exciting news that highlights the excellence, innovation, and dedication of our leaders who continue to raise the bar in the real estate industry. Merri Jo Cowen: A Visionary Leader on the SP200 List Stellar MLS CEO Merri Jo Cowen has been named to the prestigious Swanepoel Power 200 (SP200) list, which recognizes the most influential leaders in real estate. This honor is a testament to Merri Jo’s steadfast commitment to clarity, stability, and innovation in an industry defined by constant change. Her leadership ensures that Stellar MLS remains not just a service provider but a true partner to our customers. From guiding Stellar MLS through transformative periods to championing the needs of real estate professionals across our expansive footprint, Merri Jo exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose, with poise and with overwhelming positivity. Her recognition on the SP200 list among many other industry recognitions solidifies her role as a trailblazer who continually redefines what’s possible in organized real estate. Stellar’s Leadership Shines Bright Merri Jo’s recognition is part of a broader narrative of excellence at Stellar MLS. Our leadership team’s recent accolades showcase the collective impact of their vision, dedication and commitment: RISMedia Hall of Fame: Stellar MLS’s culture of service and commitment to the real estate community has earned well-deserved recognition. Stellar MLS CEO Merri Jo Cowen has been inducted into the prestigious RISMedia Newsmakers Real Estate Hall of Fame, cementing her as an industry leader and beacon of innovation year after year. This award is a testament to her enduring contributions to Stellar MLS customers and the industry at large. Additionally, both Merri Jo Cowen as well as Shayne Fairley, Stellar MLS COO, have been honored as RISMedia 2025 Real Estate Newsmakers. This accolade not only highlights visionary leadership but also reflects Stellar MLS’s growing influence in shaping the real estate industry both domestically and, more recently, on the global stage. Through its innovative tools, forward-thinking initiatives, and active collaboration with industry leaders worldwide, Stellar MLS continues to set new benchmarks for clarity, efficiency, and service, empowering real estate professionals and redefining the MLS landscape. Inman Power Player and MLS Reinvented Award: Merri Jo Cowen stands at the forefront of real estate innovation, her influence resonating across the industry. Named a 2025 Inman Power Player, she joins an elite group of leaders whose visions are shaping the future of real estate. But her impact doesn’t stop there. Honored with the Inman MLS Reinvented Award, Merri Jo has redefined the boundaries of what MLS systems can achieve, crafting solutions that empower the real estate community and set a new standard for excellence. Her work is not just transformative—it’s a blueprint for progress. HousingWire Tech Trendsetter: Shayne Fairley, Stellar MLS’s Chief Operating Officer, was recently named a 2024 HousingWire Tech Trendsetter . Shayne’s innovative approach to technology underscores Stellar’s promise to deliver superior tools and data that empower real estate professionals. His leadership ensures that our customers always have access to cutting-edge solutions that simplify their work and drive success. Leadership in Membership Care Award: Stellar MLS was honored at the International MLS Forum in Milan for its outstanding commitment to member support alongside its subsidiary, Universal Consulting Opportunities (UCO). With a combined 100 years of experience, UCO’s leadership team, which includes Marion Weiler, VP of Marketing, Communications and Global Markets, and Dr. Mathew Kallumadil, VP of Technology, Innovation and Global Markets, has demonstrated its dedication to empowering real estate professionals on a global scale. This prestigious recognition underscores Stellar's influence and continues to drive innovation, setting new benchmarks in the industry. A Reflection of Stellar Values These achievements are more than individual accolades; they reflect some of the core values that define Stellar MLS: We are Leaders: We thrive on innovation and actively embrace leadership by defining, participating in, and chairing industry initiatives that support brokers both now and in the future. We deliver Stellar service: Our customers are at the heart of everything we do. Their confidence, trust, and partnership inspire us to continually provide exceptional service and unwavering support. At Stellar MLS, we believe that great leadership creates the conditions for everyone to succeed—from our 84,000 subscribers to the communities they serve. The Stellar MLS leadership team embody this belief, proving that by investing in innovation, integrity, and service, we can elevate the entire real estate ecosystem. Looking Ahead As we celebrate these achievements, we remain focused on our mission: to create a housing market where clarity, stability, and fair access are foundational principles. Stellar MLS’s leadership honors not just our past successes but also our ongoing commitment to empowering the real estate professionals who depend on us every day. Congratulations to Merri Jo Cowen, Shayne Fairley, and the entire Stellar MLS leadership team for these well-deserved honors. Your unwavering commitment motivates us to reach greater heights and accomplish extraordinary things. Sources: Merri Jo Cowen RisMedia 2024 Real Estate Newsmaker Merri Jo Cowen SP200 List Merri Jo Cowen SP200 List 2025 Rank 47 Housingwire Shayne Fairley Tech Trendsetters 2024 Stellar MLS: IMLS Award
Ahmed Elbatrawy (UAE/EG), Founder & CEO, ArabMLS
Carlos Grass CEO, Stratus Data Systems & Amplify, US and Igluu Director/Investor
In 2024, real estate professionals faced a dynamic year filled with fluctuating interest rates and evolving buyer preferences that reshaped the housing market. Looking ahead, 2025 promises to bring its own set of possible changes and innovations. Now is the perfect time to prepare, set goals, and leverage the tools and insights available to ensure continued success in the year ahead. Reflecting on 2024: Key Trends Shaping the Market Economic shifts and consumer behaviors shaped the real estate landscape in 2024. According to U.S. News , the housing market demonstrated resilience despite fluctuating mortgage rates and inventory challenges. Key trends included: • Increased Demand for Affordable Housing: Buyers gravitated toward more affordable markets as higher interest rates impacted purchasing power. • Emphasis on Sustainability: Green features became a priority for buyers, reflecting broader environmental consciousness. • Tech Adoption: Virtual tours, AI-powered property matching, and digital transaction tools gained traction. In fact, 47% of real estate firms reported that keeping up with technology was one of their biggest challenges, underscoring the rapid adoption of digital tools to stay competitive ( CertifID ). What to Expect in 2025 Looking forward, industry experts anticipate several trends to prepare for: 1. Moderation in Housing Prices: As noted by Bankrate, home prices are expected to stabilize in 2025, with growth rates slowing to around 3% annually. This moderation creates opportunities for both buyers and sellers to navigate a more predictable market environment. 2. Continued Growth in Secondary Markets: Cities outside traditional urban hubs will remain attractive, driven by remote work and lifestyle shifts. 3. Focus on Mental Resilience: Success depends not only on market knowledge but also on mindset, as highlighted by HousingWire . With these trends in mind, let's highlight strategies agents can position themselves for success in the coming year. Possible Strategies for Success in 2025 To thrive in the evolving market, agents must approach 2025 with clear goals, actionable strategies, and the right tools. Here’s how: 1. Define SMART Business Goals Start with specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) objectives. Well-defined goals provide direction and focus, helping you turn aspirations into actionable plans. For example, instead of saying, "I want to grow my business," set a SMART goal like, "I will increase my transaction volume by X% by Q3 of 2025 by focusing on secondary markets." This approach ensures clarity and keeps you on track to achieve tangible results. 2. Leverage Market Data Market insights are essential for staying ahead. Use resources like Stellar MLS’s Market Reports to identify trends, understand buyer and seller behaviors, and guide your customers with confidence. 3. Embrace Technology Digital tools are no longer optional—they’re a necessity. Stellar MLS offers an extensive suite of products designed to enhance every stage of the transaction process, from lead generation to closing. With over 30 tools included in your subscription, you have everything you need to streamline your business and deliver exceptional service. 4. Prioritize Client Relationships As Luxury Presence emphasizes, building trust and rapport with customers is critical. Use Stellar MLS’s tools to personalize your approach, whether through targeted market insights or tailored property searches. TIP: Set reminders in your CRM to follow up with past clients on key anniversaries or milestones—it’s a simple way to nurture long-term relationships. Why Choosing Stellar MLS Empowers Your Real Estate Business Stellar MLS is much more than a technology provider—we’re your partner in success. Our commitment to delivering accurate data, exceptional service, and innovative solutions ensures you’re equipped to navigate the complexities of the real estate market. How Stellar MLS Supports Your Growth, Including: • Unmatched Data Integrity: Confidently guide your customers with reliable, accurate market information. • Comprehensive Tools: Access an unparalleled array of resources, from prospecting tools to post-close solutions. • Exceptional Support: Our bilingual support team is here to assist you six days a week, ensuring you get the most from your subscription. Closing the Year Strong Before turning the page to 2025, reflect on your 2024 wins and challenges, and use these lessons to fuel your new strategies. Celebrate your achievements and embrace the lessons learned. Use these insights to set ambitious yet attainable goals that align with your vision. With the tools, support, and expertise offered by Stellar MLS, you’re not just prepared to navigate an ever-changing market—you’re positioned to thrive in it. Together, let’s make 2025 a year of new heights and bold successes. Sources: • Housing Market Predictions for the Next 5 Years – U.S. News • Emerging Trends in Real Estate – PwC • Housing Market in 2025 – Bankrate • Winning the Mental Game – HousingWire • How to Succeed as a Real Estate Agent – Luxury Presence • 10 Real Estate Technology Trends to Know About in 2024 • Stellar MLS Q3 Stats Report
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