I have often asked myself that question... to some degree the requirement to belong to the local and state association and even to the NAR ro be a member of our MLS feels like enforced unionization to me.

no. I don't even like their classes

The primary value is access to the multiple listing system for the region.

Good morning Sally. It definitely had lots of meaning when I was in the real estate business, but as I observe the business these days, for many it just doesn't have much meaning at all.

 I can not imagine not having access to the MLS. 

When an organization occupies a monopoly position they have no hope of being anything other than an impediment. The local board is about turf protection, and from my experience, does little of tangible benefit, to the real estate agents business. (A honest broker will tell a different story regarding their business)

Let's be clear, as a REALTOR, I can not exist without the local board. However, as a non-member, an agent has the agility to serve a meaningful purpose.....but that would be PROHIBITED by the MLS and the respective brokers of which REMAX is one.

Board membership provides access to the MLS.

IMHO, NO! I only need MLS access!

Sally K. & David L. Hanson Access to the MLS and lockboxes.

Yes. We have a great Bucks county Board. 

MLS access, training, PAC's I think are all good things that help my business.

Acess to the MLS is essential and they basically control it. It can be beneficial if you participate. Most do not!

My board is very effective and very helpful.

The classes have been good, though I will admit that most of what they teach is how to be a "salesman", not how to be a good Realtor. My two cents anyway, I know many of my peers disagree.

To the average client...NO!

Wayne is a pretty active member of the local board. One of the values it brings is street credibility and increased visibility.

I couldn't imagine real estate without our local board.  They are the glue that keeps our careers in tact.  They give technical support, answer questions, give direction, educate. 

NO...it does not and for the money they take in, you would think otherwise.

After being a member of two boards for 26 years thge answer is yes and the reasons would be a blog post and not an answer here.

Board membership out here provides access to the MLS and discounts at the association store for some items.  They also provide some good training and support for things like the supra e-key.

They also mandate membership in the state association, which has some benefits.  They also mandate membership in NAR, which I have yet to see a benefit except that the state board pulls contact information from the national system.  If I could drop NAR, I would.

I think of it as one of the fees to stay in the business...

Nope...but they should. Not only do they allow us access to MLS, but they should be policing the practices of all their members to the betterment of how the public sees us. 

Access to our MLS.  There are several I could join if I didn't belong to the local Association.