MLS Subscription Changes

We believe in giving brokers and agents maximum flexibility. That’s why we’re updating Unlock MLS Rules by removing the requirement for REALTOR® association membership. This change empowers Unlock MLS subscribers to freely choose the business tools that best suit their needs. When there is increased choice, the result is a more dynamic, competitive, and healthy marketplace for everyone.

Not at all. We recognize and respect the value REALTOR® associations provide. This change is about offering choice—brokers and agents can decide for themselves if association membership aligns with their goals without impacting Unlock MLS access.

The most effective and meaningful communities are those where everyone is intentionally engaged. We want ABoR to be a community where every member joins because they recognize and want to benefit from the immense value that the Association provides, not because they’re obligated to join to access MLS services.

No. Only real estate agents licensed by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) are eligible to subscribe to Unlock MLS. While REALTOR® Association membership will no longer be a prerequisite to access Unlock MLS services, we will always require subscribers to be licensed real estate professionals.

Yes. Unlock MLS subscription changes have now been implemented. However, to subscribe as a licensed sales agent you need to join a non-Realtor® office.

A non-REALTOR® office is a firm whose principals do not hold membership in a REALTOR® association. Under our expanded MLS subscription options, this firm will be able to subscribe to Unlock MLS but will not be tied to NAR’s membership rules.

NAR’s definition of “principals” and membership requirements for a REALTOR® office are in its Bylaws. Locally, Unlock MLS will reference the brokerage of record data provided by TREC to confirm principal ownership.

Unlock MLS recognizes that any policies that restrict how your business can be structured can seem overly prohibitive and antiquated. Our goal is to offer as much choice as possible while operating within the framework of NAR’s existing policies.

Since you already paid your 2025 ABoR association fees, you would continue to benefit from the services and support ABoR provides through December 31, even if you change to a non-REALTOR® office during the year. However, you would lose immediate access to Texas REALTORS® benefits (such as ZipForms) and NAR benefits (such as REALTORS® Property Resource or use of the REALTOR® trademark).

All dues and subscription fees are non-refundable.

No. According to the NAR Bylaws, joining a local REALTOR® association in Texas also requires joining Texas REALTORS® and NAR.

There are three things you need to know about NAR’s policy requirements in this area: 

• If the brokerage principals opt to be REALTORS®, the firm must pay a non-member assessment fee for all affiliated licensees.

• Conversely, if the principals choose not to be REALTORS®, no licensees in the firm may hold REALTOR® membership.  

• If your firm chooses that its principals will not be REALTORS®, the broker of record will need to set up a new Unlock MLS registration for the firm, so that you can access Unlock MLS as a Non-Member Licensee (without a REALTOR® membership). 

To set up a non-REALTOR® office with Unlock MLS, designated brokers should: 

• Designate the office as non-REALTOR®: 

  • Ensure the Designated Broker for the office is not a REALTOR® which includes membership at all other local associations across the state. 

• Inform Unlock MLS: 

  • For existing Designated Brokers choosing to terminate their REALTOR® membership, please login to the member portal and complete the Office Election Transition form. The form is located under Subscriptions>Subscription Actions. 

  • For all new Designated Brokers, go to our standard application form which will guide you through the joining process and allow you to subscribe to the MLS as a non-REALTOR office. 

• NAR’s rules on office structure and membership are available in its Bylaws and Membership Policy & Procedures page.

• TREC’s requirements for setting up and managing brokerage offices are detailed on their website.

If you have additional questions or concerns regarding the Unlock MLS subscription changes, our team is available to assist at support@abor.com. For questions related to licensing, please contact TREC directly at 512-936-3000 or via email here.