A Quiet Rule Change Just Shifted Power in Real Estate — Especially in New Jersey

Something major happened this week in real estate.
It didn’t hit national headlines, but it will change how real estate works in New Jersey — starting now.


The Big Change: MLS Access No Longer Requires Being a REALTOR®


On November 17th, NAR removed its long-standing rule that required agents to be REALTOR® members to access the MLS.

That decision now belongs to each local MLS.

In New Jersey, this affects the systems you hear all the time:


  • GSMLS
  • Bright MLS
  • CJMLS

  • Monmouth/Ocean MLS (MOMLS)



HousingWire put it clearly:

Local MLSs can now decide access requirements on their own. — HousingWire, Nov. 202

Some NJ MLSs may keep the membership requirement.
Some may drop it.
Some may create new models.

This is a major shift.


A Second Key Change Almost Passed


NAR’s Board approved a rule to increase transparency around referral fees and dual compensation — but the Delegate Body narrowly voted it down for now.

Make no mistake: more transparency rules are coming..


Why This Is Happening

  • Clearer compensation explanations
  • More consumer transparency
  • Modernized rules

These changes are part of a bigger national shift.


What This Means for the Public in NJ

More clarity


Consumers will start hearing simpler explanations of how agents get paid.

More access options

If MLSs open access, you may see more agents able to show you homes.


What This Means for Agents in NJ


MLS access rules may change locally

GSMLS, Bright, CJMLS, and MOMLS may all take different paths.

Compensation transparency is here to stay

Even if the rule didn’t pass this round, it’s clearly coming.

Agents will fall into two groups

Builders who prepare early
vs.
Bystanders who wait

Right now rewards the Builders.


What NJ Agents Should Do This Week


✔ Add a simple “How my compensation works” page to your buyer & seller presentations
✔ Ask your broker:
“What’s our plan if MLS access separates from association membership in NJ?”
✔ Send your clients a short update explaining what changed and how you protect them