Northwest MLS Launches AI-Powered Home Search with Real-Time MLS Data

Kirkland-based Northwest Multiple Listing Service on Thursday launched a reimagined consumer home-search experience on its website that provides homebuyers with direct access to real-time MLS data and advanced search tools.

The new platform was developed in partnership with Broker Public Portal and is powered by its Cribio technology, according to a news release.

“Consumers deserve access to accurate, timely, and comprehensive listing information,” Justin Haag, CEO of Northwest MLS, said in the release. “At NWMLS, we believe buyers and sellers benefit most when housing inventory is broadly available through transparent, trusted platforms that connect consumers directly with real estate professionals. Consumers should also be able to clearly understand who is representing the seller and where listing information is coming from.”

The new NWMLS search differs from traditional advertising-driven portal models with a transparent, consumer-first experience, NWMLS said.

Key features, the release said, include AI-powered conversational search where buyers can search using natural language and specific lifestyle criteria to quickly discover matching homes; direct broker attribution where listings prominently feature the listing broker and firm, with no competing advertisements or lead-generation forms alongside properties; real-time accuracy powered directly by NWMLS data to ensure buyers and sellers see active, verified inventory without lag; a comprehensive directory where consumers can search for and connect directly with local NWMLS brokers and member firms; and national reach where NWMLS listings also will be featured on Cribio’s national home-search platform, providing sellers with broad exposure without third-party ad clutter.

“Home search should be built around homes and people, not advertising and lead sales,” Jill Himlie, chairperson of the Northwest MLS board of directors and designated broker/owner of Windermere Real Estate/Himlie, added in the release. “This platform gives consumers a clean, trusted search experience while giving sellers maximized visibility without competing ads next to their homes.”

The Cribio platform relies directly on MLS data as its source — a consumer-first approach that guarantees clear listing-broker attribution, prioritizes accurate property information, and fosters direct, meaningful relationships between home searchers and real estate professionals, the release added.

Dan Troup, CEO of Broker Public Portal, said bringing Cribio to Washington with Northwest MLS is a landmark moment for BPP.

“Their commitment reflects strong confidence in our consumer-first approach and in BPP’s industry-owned model,” Troup said in a statement. “This partnership will allow us to create a better home search experience for consumers while continuing to strengthen the firms and brokers who serve them every day.”