Understanding the Unlicensed Assistant MLS Access Fee

At MetroTex, our mission is to provide the highest level of service and resources to everyone who relies on the MLS, including REALTORS® and the unlicensed assistants who support their work every day. Assistants play a vital role in helping REALTORS® serve clients efficiently, and we’re committed to equipping them with the same secure, professional support that our MLS subscribers rely on.

As the role of unlicensed assistants has grown, so has their use of MLS support services. In fact, assistants often contact our staff for technical help, compliance questions, and account support at a higher rate than our licensed subscribers. Additionally, unlicensed assistants attend our MLS classes, which we provide as a member benefit. Until now, these services have been provided at no cost, while requiring considerable time and resources.

At the same time, it’s critical that we protect the security of our MLS. Inactive or outdated assistant accounts represent a serious vulnerability, leaving open doors to sensitive data long after someone has left a brokerage. By ensuring that every account is tied to an active user and promptly deactivated when no longer in use, we safeguard sensitive information, protect our members, and strengthen trust in the system.

That’s why we have made the decision to implement an unlicensed assistant MLS access fee of $50 per assistant account. This step aligns access fees with usage and helps ensure:

• Fairness: Every MLS user, licensed or unlicensed, contributes to the cost of maintaining services.
• Security: By introducing accountability, inactive or outdated accounts are more likely to be identified and closed.
• Sustainability: MetroTex can continue providing the high-quality MLS services and staff support that members expect.

This change is about protecting the MLS and ensuring every user shares in the responsibility of keeping it strong. We know change is never easy, but we believe this adjustment will ultimately make the system fairer, more secure, and more sustainable for everyone.

Quick Reference: FAQ

Why is my assistant being billed?

Unlicensed assistants utilizing MLS services often contact our staff for help with technical support, compliance, and account services at a higher rate than licensed subscribers, and outdated assistant accounts represent a serious security vulnerability. This fee aligns access fees with usage, ensuring fairness, security, and sustainability.

What does the fee cover?

The fee helps support MLS resources, administrative support, and security measures required to maintain assistant accounts, so you and your team continue to receive the high level of service you expect.

What if my assistant leaves?

If an assistant is no longer working with you, they should deactivate their account (which can be done through their Member Portal). Removing inactive accounts not only helps assistants avoid any outstanding invoices or late fees, it also minimizes risk and ensures the MLS remains secure and up to date. Should you or your assistant have any questions or need assistance deactivating, you can contact Member Services at memberservices@metrotex.com.

Does this change assistants’ access to MLS tools?

No. Unlicensed assistants will continue to have full access to the MLS tools they need, and REALTORS® can be confident their assistants’ access is secure, professional, and fully supported.