Delayed MLS Availability Costs Sellers MONEY?

This is a very hotly debated topic in the Realtor world that, in my opinion this practice negatively impacts sellers in our area. 

I am concerned about a trend I am seeing in our market. It is also present in other markets where inventory is low. We have very low inventory and homes are selling quickly, sometimes even before they are put on the multiple listing service (MLS) and before all realtors and buyers are given access to them. 

When that happens today, in our low inventory market, more than likely it is costing the seller money.

How: Most properties are selling for list price or higher, sellers need to agree to very few concessions (like closing costs, delayed closings, etc) to get their property sold. But, when a listed property is available to only one companies (Brokerage) buyers it restricts the number of offers on a property. It does this by limiting the showings to only those buyers represented by the company that listed the property. 

"Do you allow showings before my property is available to all realtors and buyers in this area?"

This is a very important question to ask your Realtor. Better yet, tell your Realtor you do not want any showings until your property has been available on the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) for at least 24 hours. This will ensure you, Mr/Mrs Seller are receiving offers from all local buyers that would be interested in a property like yours. This will also ensure you are receiving the highest price for your property.

As I said this is a very hotly debated topic but for me it is crystal clear. A Realtor is responsible to do what is best for their clients just like an attorney. This practice is not what is best for their sellers.