Choosing a MAR Membership
Realtor® vs. Non-Member MLS Subscriber Benefits
We understand that access to NorthstarMLS may be a core tool for your business. At MAR, MN licensed brokers have the option to choose non-member subscriber access to the MLS. Brokers can now make this choice on behalf of themselves and their agents.
Above all, MAR’s role as your local association is to support you in the success of your business and offer a top-notch community of support, tools, and resources. In a rapidly changing industry, we’re committed to evolving alongside those changes, providing choice and support for different needs.
If you would like to change your brokerage to a Non-Member MLS subscription please reach out to our team at in**@*********or.com or 952-933-9020.
| MAR Offerings | Realtor® Member | Non-Member MLS Subscriber |
|---|---|---|
MLS Access Including MLS Help Desk and Rules & Regulations | x | x |
| ShowingTime | x | x |
Electronic Lockbox & eKey Access | x | x |
Tools & Discounts Transaction Desk (Authentisign), RPR, Realtor® Store, Partner Discounts | x | |
Broker Legal Resources MNR Legal Hotline & Arbitration | x | |
| Market Data You Can Trust | x | |
Exclusive Events & Education Timely and relevant CE courses, free Realtor® requirements (as available through MAR), networking events and more | x | |
Direct Member Support Staff ready to assist with questions on your business and third party tools | x | |
Advocacy to Support Your Business Advocating for homeownership, the industry and private property rights | x | |
Forms Over 70 MNR contracts and agreements | x | |
Professional Standards Code of Ethics and resolution of Realtor® disputes | x | |
| Use of Realtor® Trademark | x |
Realtor® vs. Non-Member MLS Subscriber Pricing
| Dues & Fees | Realtor® Member | Non-Member MLS Subscriber |
|---|---|---|
| MLS Fees | $632 ($158 per quarter) | $680 (billed annually) |
| Annual Realtor® Dues | $651 (MAR $200, MNR $250, NAR $201) | N/A |
| 2026 Annual Total | $1,283 | $680 |
| Unlicensed Staff or Assistant | +$150/user/year | +$150/user/year |
Move your brokerage to a Non-Member MLS Subscription
If you wish to choose a Non-Member MLS subscription instead of MAR Realtor® Membership on behalf of yourself and all the agents in your office, please fill out the following forms and submit to in**@*********or.com
BROKER FORMS:
- Non-Member MLS Subscriber Application
- Residential Multiple Listing Service Application
- Salesperson MLS Subscriber Certification Form
AGENT FORM:
Only applicable to Non-Member MLS Subscription Brokerages.
FAQs
Why did Minneapolis Area Realtors® (MAR) choose to make this policy change?
This decision was made to provide brokers in the Minneapolis area more choice around the tools and resources they want to invest in for their business.
Did MAR make this option available because of the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) settlement?
No. The NAR settlement was focused on commissions, the MLS, and buyer agreements. This change is because we’ve heard the feedback that brokers want more choice in how, or if, they engage with the benefits and community provided by MAR, the state and national associations.
Can I still call myself a Realtor® if I become a Non-Member MLS subscriber?
No. You will need to remove all references to the Realtor® brand or MAR from your marketing and materials. The Realtor® name and logo is a protected trademark, and improper use by a Non-Member will be reported and enforced by NAR.
Can I join MAR as a Realtor® member and not NAR?
We’re so glad you see the value in MAR membership, but unfortunately, no. We are still part of the three-way agreement between local, state, and national associations. To be a Realtor® member at MAR, you must also be a part of a state and the national associations. However, that means you are also receiving support, resources, and advocacy at all three levels for you and your business.
If I switch to a Non-Member MLS subscription, who do we receive MLS customer support from?
Since you would no longer be a MAR member, you would work directly with the vendor (i.e., ShowingTime or NorthstarMLS).
Can Non-Member MLS subscribers show properties?
Yes, but they cannot access Supra in the same way that a Realtor® member can.
Can I still use my Supra lockboxes and access others’ lockboxes for showings if I make the switch to a Non-Member MLS subscriber?
Yes. Licensed MN agents can continue using Supre eKey access. Unlicensed affiliates or assistants would need to complete a background check.
Can I come to MAR events and/or classes if I’m a Non-Member MLS subscriber?
Yes, you are welcome to join us at some MAR classes and events purchased at the non-member rate. However, select classes and events are reserved for only members.
What is the price difference between being a Realtor® member and a Non-Member MLS subscriber?
Please see the information below for pricing and benefits of full Realtor® membership vs. an MLS subscription.
Do Non-Member MLS subscribers adhere to the NAR Code of Ethics? If not, what is the recourse if I have a complaint about a Non-Member MLS subscriber?
The NAR Code of Ethics is for Realtor® members, so by nature of not being a member, those brokers and agents have not committed to abide by this standard. As such, you must consult with your broker on how to handle the complaint.
If you are a Realtor® Broker, you could consult the Minnesota Realtors® (MNR) legal hotline. However if you are a Non-Member Broker, you would need to consult your own legal counsel as the MNR legal hotline is available only to members.
What if my broker wants to stay a Realtor® brokerage, but I don’t want to be a Realtor® member?
As has always been the case, a broker gets to choose the type of membership they need to support their business and protect not only their license, but yours. You should talk with your broker about what options may be available to you.
What if my broker wants to switch to a Non-Member brokerage and I want to stay a Realtor® member?
You should talk with your broker about why this is your wish so they know you value your Realtor® membership. That being said, your broker decides how their brokerage operates. As an agent you can choose the brokerage that aligns with your goals and values.
Can Appraisers apply for non-member MLS access?
Yes. Any licensed real estate broker or appraiser can make the decision to subscribe as a non-member to the MLS at MAR. They would be foregoing all Association member benefits, however (including Supra).