What is this MLS I hear about?

It's full name is the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). It's a collection of all the properties listed for sale in a geographic area.  Most agents choose to be a member of the MLS. Having your property listed in the MLS is a big advantage because it means that all the agents in the area will know about your property and be able to show it.

The MLS contains all of the information about your property including how agents should show it (example: agents should use side door to enter) and all of the other features and details of your property. The MLS helps agents connect your property to potential buyers.

When a real esate associate finds a buyer they will search the MLS for properties that meet their criteria.  Typically buyers search by price, location, number of bedrooms, and square footage.

If the buyer is looking for a house like yours the real estate agent knows to show your house.  And because you hired a real estate agent and your house is in the MLS it will be searched for by dozens of agents. Not just the office you listed with.

Your listing agent will make sure other agents know about your property. That's their job.

The MLS database is shared with several websites making it readily available online.  This means a person moving in from out of state can still find your property online.