Universal Consulting Opportunities (UCO) Advising Arab MLS in Efforts to Enhance Real Estate Practices Across the Arab Region

October 4, 2024

UCO Advises Arab Region’s Leading Multiple Listing Service to Further Drive Innovation and Transparency, Benefitting Real Estate Professionals and Consumers

FLORIDA, USA (Oct. 5, 2024) – UCO, a subsidiary of Stellar MLS, a leading multiple listing service (MLS)

in the U.S. and the fastest-growing in the world, has announced an agreement with Arab MLS to enhance

the real estate practices across the Arab region and beyond. UCO will advise Arab MLS to further drive

their commitment to deliver efficiency, transparency and quality user experience, and redefine the way

people connect with properties and elevate the entire real estate journey, starting with Egypt, Dubai,

Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.


Arab MLS is at the forefront of revolutionizing real estate in the Arab region with an MLS that serves as

the foundation for smooth and efficient property transactions and a vision to transform the real estate

landscape into a connected and empowered ecosystem. They represent a forward-thinking approach in

the MENA region and the Arab world to implement the MLS system, hence modernizing the real estate

industry. Arab MLS not only provides an MLS solution but also offers a comprehensive marketplace

hosted on a governmental domain. They have developed other integrated systems around the MLS and

marketplace, designed to better serve their clients and the broader real estate ecosystem. Having the

backing of key governmental entities and significant financial institutions further demonstrates the

strength and reliability of Arab MLS’s platform.


Through UCO, Stellar MLS brings its expertise and experience to augment Arab MLS’s innovative

solutions and comprehensive suite of services, which create a future where everyone can easily navigate

the world of real estate, making informed decisions and achieving their aspirations of finding the perfect

home by setting new standards for efficiency, transparency and user experience. UCO will serve as a key

advisor to Arab MLS, including technology, business strategy, and operational efficiencies to scale the

fast-growing membership and vendor management.


“Our relationship with Arab MLS stems from a shared vision of fostering a modern and accessible real

estate ecosystem that enhances trust and transparency,” said Merri Jo Cowen, CEO of Stellar MLS and

UCO. “We are excited to bring our experience to the table with the goal of elevating the real estate

industry in the Arab region and globally.”


“Our collaboration with UCO marks an important milestone in our mission to drive innovation and

transparency within the real estate industry,” said Ahmed Elbatrawy, Founder and CEO of Arab MLS. “By

combining our expertise and culture awareness of the marketplace with UCO’s experience and forward-

thinking approach, we aim to create a more efficient and accessible marketplace that benefits real estate

professionals and consumers alike, setting a new standard for the real estate sector in Egypt and beyond,

ensuring a future where trust, technology, and growth go hand in hand.”


“Arab MLS understands the diverse needs of the real estate sector in the Arab region,” said Marion

Weiler, UCO Vice President of Global Markets and Stellar MLS Vice President of Marketing and

Communications. “We are excited to share ideas to further leverage their innovative tools and

technology. Together, we are reaffirming our commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions and

forward-thinking strategies to ensure that real estate professionals and consumers alike benefit from an

enhanced industry landscape.”


UCO has been actively engaged in global forums in France and Germany to support a forward-thinking

approach to transforming the real estate industry. In October, UCO is a title partner of the International

MLS Forum in Milan, where representatives of 45+ global markets will meet to understand and develop

the MLS concept to bring about trust and transparency. UCO’s presence is supported through its

partnerships with CEPI, the European Association of Real Estate Professions, and FIABCI, the

International Real Estate Federation.


About UCO

With a mission to support real estate professionals across the globe, UCO offers expertise including but

not limited to market entry, MLS development, and cross-border transactions. This expertise stems from

a management team with over 100 years of combined experience in the real estate industry, including

globally recognized business leaders who have worked with world-class organizations, and international

professionals with 40 years of collective global experience, many of whom are fluent in multiple

languages. By collaborating with global organizations like CEPI and FIABCI, UCO delivers tailored

solutions to help real estate markets thrive globally, with an emphasis on trust, transparency, innovation,

and sustainable growth. Whether you are enhancing existing operations or building new ones from the

ground up, UCO is committed to helping real estate markets thrive – UCO specializes in meeting clients’

unique needs, wherever they may be in their MLS journey.


About Arab MLS

Arab MLS is at the forefront of revolutionizing real estate in the Arab region. Our main product, the MLS,

serves as the foundation for smooth and efficient property transactions, connecting buyers and sellers

seamlessly. Beyond MLS, we offer a comprehensive suite of services, including IDX solutions for

advanced property searches, insurance for added security, property data solutions for valuable market

insights, mortgage solutions to facilitate financing, enterprise solutions to optimize real estate

businesses, real estate AI for data-driven decisions, and geo-fencing for location-based insights. With a

focus on innovation and expertise tailored to the unique demands of the Arab real estate market, we

are committed to empowering your success in this dynamic industry.


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Universal Consulting Opportunities (UCO), a Stellar MLS Subsidiary, Signs Agreement with NAR India As Advisor to Develop a National MLS

By Warner Ransone • November 14, 2024
FLORIDA, U.S. (Nov. 14, 2024) – UCO, a subsidiary of Stellar MLS, a leading multiple listing service (MLS) in the U.S. and the fastest-growing in the world, has entered into a landmark agreement with the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) India as an advisor to successfully launch an MLS across India. This milestone signifies Stellar MLS’s commitment to enhance the real estate industry on a global scale, expanding UCO’s presence worldwide, and furthers NAR India’s journey to modernize and elevate the Indian real estate industry. Founded in 2008, NAR India is a nonprofit organization that facilitates the professional development of its members and promotes the highest standards and accreditation in the national real estate industry. It is one of only two countries to hold the NAR designation; Canada is the other. UCO will consult with NAR India’s team to guide in areas including the establishment of an MLS, technology, business strategy, organizational setup, and vendor management. “We are delighted to align with NAR India, a highly respected organization that shares our values of quality customer service, trust and data integrity to benefit the burgeoning real estate market in India,” said Merri Jo Cowen, CEO of UCO and Stellar MLS. “This is a significant nationwide initiative, and we are proud to share our expertise in establishing the MLS concept across India and be a part of NAR India’s mission to utilize the power of collaboration, transparency and an efficient marketplace.” Cowen also noted the alignment’s potential benefits to Stellar MLS’s Florida customers, such as through referral opportunities: Florida is home to many Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). Current trends highlight the increasing influence of NRIs in shaping India’s real estate landscape, driven by both emotional connections to their homeland and the pursuit of investment opportunities. On the flipside, India is one of the largest foreign investors in Florida real estate, with $5.4 billion in investments in 2020. “The partnership between UCO and NAR India marks a pivotal moment for the Indian real estate industry,” said Amit Chopra, President, NAR India. “It brings cutting-edge MLS expertise to India, fostering transparency, trust, and professionalism in our market.” Tarun Bhatia, Vice Chairman and Chair-Global, NAR India, added: “It also creates exciting opportunities for Indian REALTORS® to showcase properties to a global audience, particularly NRIs, fostering stronger international connections.” Sumanth Reddy, Chairman, NAR India, concluded: “We are proud to embark on this journey with UCO and look forward to the transformative impact it will have on our members and the industry as a whole, opening up new avenues for growth and collaboration.” Dr. Mathew Kallumadil, UCO Vice President of Global Markets and Stellar MLS Vice President of Technology and Innovation noted the shared synergies between UCO and NAR India. “India is a complex, diverse market with different languages and cultures within the country, and UCO’s experience in accommodating regional differences and helping build scalable MLS systems will be invaluable in developing a sustainable MLS framework,” Dr. Kallumadil said. “Indian society is very highly digitized, and that is critical to a successful MLS and the ecosystem around it.” The partnership with NAR India expands UCO’s presence to South Asia, in addition to Europe and the Middle East. UCO recently entered into other strategic global consulting opportunities, including with MLS Leader (Romania) and Arab MLS (Middle East) to optimize real estate practices across their respective regions, and with Igluu, a Prague-based digital technology firm, to expand the MLS concept in Europe. Furthermore, UCO has been actively engaged in global forums to support a forward-thinking approach to transforming the industry and its presence is supported through its partnerships with CEPI, the European Association of Real Estate Professions, and FIABCI, the International Real Estate Federation. For information about UCO and Stellar MLS, visit stellarmls.com/global .

The Secret to Successful Home Searches: How Stellar MLS Bridges Dreams and Reality for Buyers and Agents

By Jillian Lugo • November 8, 2024
In real estate, finding a home is more than checking boxes; it’s about bringing dreams to life, aligning aspirations with reality, and creating a space where memories will flourish. Stellar MLS is here to support agents and their customers, turning dreams into real-life experiences and guiding them through one of life’s most meaningful journeys. More Than Listings: Creating Pathways to Homes Many buyers find the home search process daunting. From envisioning the perfect home to navigating endless listings, it can be overwhelming. Stellar MLS, however, offers more than data; it provides the clarity and assurance that agents and their customers need to make pivotal decisions with confidence. Agents connected to Stellar MLS access the most comprehensive and trustworthy home information available, enabling them to build lasting trust with their customers—transforming the home search experience and making it feel seamless. This connection empowers agents to help buyers find homes that match their aspirations in every way. Real Agents, Real Value: Turning Dreams into Reality Stellar MLS equips agents with tools that translate wish lists into real options. With data on communities, property histories, and local market trends, agents guide their customers through each stage with insight and clarity. This approach builds strong relationships and reassures customers that their agent is fully committed to finding the perfect fit for them. For example, when working with a young couple seeking their first home, an agent can use Stellar’s extensive data to identify options that not only fit their budget but also meet their desire for a community with top-rated schools and easy access to work. With Stellar’s support, this agent can transform what could have been an overwhelming journey into an enjoyable, rewarding experience, providing reassurance at each step and helping the couple find a place they can truly call home. Supporting Agents, Fulfilling Aspirations At Stellar MLS, we understand that a home search is a significant life event. Stellar MLS customers gain access to a community dedicated to clarity, stability, and success. Through extensive product support and unmatched data quality, Stellar enables agents to help their customers move forward with complete confidence. Offering 30+ complimentary products, Stellar MLS equips agents with the tools needed to exceed expectations, from prospecting tools to post-close solutions. Stellar’s reliable data serves as a foundation, allowing agents to provide accurate, real-time insights that help their customers achieve their real estate goals with peace of mind. A Reliable Partner in Real Estate In an ever-evolving industry, Stellar MLS stands as a reliable partner, understanding the dreams and goals tied to each property. This trusted support allows agents to focus on building lasting relationships with their customers that extend well beyond the closing process. Stellar MLS brings stability, consistency, and a long-term commitment to success that resonates with agents and customers alike. With Stellar, agents know they’re backed by an organization dedicated to their success and to the happiness of the buyers they serve. It’s not just about closing a deal; it’s about helping each buyer find a place to truly call home. Stellar MLS isn’t just a platform; it’s a promise—to offer stability in times of change, to be a dependable partner, and to create a home-search experience where every customer’s vision has a path forward.  It’s your journey, it’s our mission because at Stellar MLS we're for you.

Reflections on the Innovative Paths of MLS Founders, International MLS Forum 2024

By Warner Ransone • October 30, 2024
Pioneers of MLS: The Innovative Journeys of MLS Founders Dr. Mathew Kallumadil, Moderator International MLS Forum, Milan, Italy October 28, 2024 The International MLS Forum, held in the vibrant city of Milan, Italy, brought together pioneers in the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) industry to discuss their innovative journeys and the future of MLS. As the moderator of this esteemed panel, I had the privilege of guiding a discussion that delved into the unique challenges and triumphs experienced by these trailblazers. Our panelists, Carlos Grass, Ahmed Elbatrawy, and Sorin Udrea, each shared their compelling stories, shedding light on the evolution of MLS in their respective regions. 

Universal Consulting Opportunities (UCO), a subsidiary of Stellar MLS, Takes Center Stage at International MLS Forum in Milan

By Warner Ransone • October 22, 2024
ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. (Oct. 22, 2024) – UCO, a subsidiary of Stellar MLS, a leading multiple listing service in the U.S. and the fastest-growing in the world, joined leaders from around the world this month in Italy for the second annual International MLS Forum. Having doubled in attendance due to a global movement toward increasing trust and transparency in real estate transactions, the event provided a unique platform for industry leaders across the globe. Organized by the Real Estate Standards Organization (RESO) and the European Association of Real Estate Professions (CEPI), and heavily supported by UCO as its only title partner, the forum brought together professionals, thought leaders, and innovators Oct. 7-8 at the Spazio Antologico event facility in Milan. The agenda included two full days of critically relevant content from real estate experts worldwide. The forum focused on a range of topics, from MLS culture and brokers’ views to the role of MLSs as service stores, distinctions between MLSs and portals, differentiations in business models worldwide, government regulations and licensing, and emerging technologies. The UCO team played a vital role in the event’s success and the value to attendees by participating in and moderating panels as well as hosting one of the two conference days with a full agenda of sessions fostering innovation, transparency and efficiency in the industry. Dr. Mathew Kallumadil, UCO Vice President of Global Markets and Stellar MLS Vice President of Technology and Innovation, led a panel of MLS pioneers in a discussion focusing on stakeholders and decision-makers in emerging markets, which offered insights for those at the verge of launching the MLS concept globally. “We’re excited to have stood alongside global leaders in advocating a forward-thinking approach to transforming the real estate industry,” said Merri Jo Cowen, CEO UCO and Stellar MLS. “As a title partner of this year’s International MLS Forum, it was our honor to support worldwide collaboration to explore and enhance the MLS concept, promoting trust and transparency in the process.” At the conclusion of the International MLS Forum, Stellar MLS, the parent company of UCO, was awarded the Leadership in Member Care award. According to the Forum’s Advisory Board, the award “recognizes an organization who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication, particularly during challenging times. By providing live, up-to-date information and educating members, the members remain informed and resilient. With the highest satisfaction rate based on member feedback, this organization excelled in maintaining strong communication and transparency. Additionally, prompt and efficient response to members' queries showcased an unwavering commitment to supporting the community and addressing their needs swiftly and effectively.” "We are honored to have been recognized and selected for this award. Leadership guides member care at Stellar MLS, and client care at UCO is at the foundation of who we are and what we do,” said Marion Weiler, Vice President of Global Markets at UCO and Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Stellar MLS. “I’m excited to see how the discussions in Milan will take shape and how UCO can support the needs of our global community to fuel progress in markets around the world, meeting them wherever they are in their MLS journey." In addition to the International MLS Forum in Milan, Stellar MLS and UCO have actively participated in other global events and initiatives and will continue to support a forward-thinking approach to transforming the real estate industry on a global scale. UCO has recently entered into several agreements to share best practices for growing the MLS concept providing trust and transparency, including: as exclusive MLS strategic advisor to MLS Leader in the Romanian real estate market; advising Arab MLS to enhance real estate practices across the Arab region and beyond; and exploring synergies with Igluu, a Prague-based digital technology firm, to expand the MLS concept, empower real estate professionals, and enhance value for consumers in Europe and throughout the world. For information about Stellar/UCO visit stellarmls.com/global .  PHOTOS Credit: https://mlsforum.org/

Universal Consulting Opportunities (UCO) and Igluu Further Mission to Elevate Global Real Estate

By Warner Ransone • October 8, 2024
Universal Consulting Opportunities (UCO), a Stellar MLS Subsidiary, and European MLS Technology Pioneer Igluu Agree to Collaborate to Further Enhance MLS Concepts in Europe

Universal Consulting Opportunities (UCO) Advising Arab MLS in Efforts to Enhance Real Estate Practices Across the Arab Region

By Warner Ransone • October 4, 2024
UCO Advises Arab Region’s Leading Multiple Listing Service to Further Drive Innovation and Transparency, Benefitting Real Estate Professionals and Consumers
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