#1The MLS data problem in one paragraph
Multiple MLSs, multiple data dictionaries, inconsistent compliance rules, and integration latency that can break a search experience. MLS data is the most operationally critical and most operationally chaotic part of most real-estate platforms.
#2What RETS was, and why it persists
RETS standardised the dialogue between client applications and MLS servers in an era when SOAP and XML felt modern. It still works, and many MLSs still publish it, but it carries operational complexity that holds back roadmap velocity.
#3Why RESO Web API wins from here
RESO Web API is RESTful, JSON-based, OData-aligned, and continues to receive investment. New integrations should target it first; legacy RETS feeds should be migrated as MLSs publish RESO endpoints.
#4A pragmatic migration strategy
Abstract the MLS integration behind an internal contract that speaks RESO data dictionary terms. Implement adapters for RETS and RESO sources behind it. Migrate adapters one MLS at a time, never touching application code in the process.
