New Agent? Here’s What You Need to Know About the MLS
- CHSMLS
- May 21
- 5 min read
Welcome to the Lowcountry real estate community! Starting your career as a real estate agent is exciting—and maybe a little overwhelming. One of the most essential tools in your toolkit will be the MLS, or Multiple Listing Service.
If you're brand new to the industry, you might be wondering what the MLS actually does, how to access it, and why it's considered such a critical asset for real estate professionals. Whether you're based in Charleston, Summerville, Walterboro, or anywhere in between, this blog will walk you through what you need to know about working with the CHS Regional MLS (CHS MLS).
WHAT IS THE MLS?
The MLS is a centralized database where real estate professionals share information about properties for sale or rent. It’s a cooperative system, meaning participating agents and brokers agree to share listings—and in doing so, gain access to the entire pool of listings from other members.
For 8 large counties within South Carolina, your MLS is CHS Regional MLS, and it’s more than just a listing service. It provides real-time data, powerful tools for analysis, and integrations that help you communicate better with your clients. It’s a daily workspace and a strategic advantage rolled into one.
Without the MLS, you'd be left searching dozens of platforms to track market activity, input your listings manually into multiple websites, and guess at pricing and trends. The MLS streamlines all of that—keeping you efficient, compliant, and informed.
WHY THE MLS MATTERS FOR NEW AGENTS
As a new agent, getting comfortable with the MLS will boost your confidence and set you up for long-term success. Here's how it helps:
Professionalism: You’ll gain access to accurate, up-to-date property information that you can rely on when talking to clients.
Efficiency: Manage listings, run CMAs (Comparative Market Analyses), and generate client-ready reports—all from one place.
Market Knowledge: Stay on top of inventory, price trends, and days-on-market averages in your area.
Competitive Edge: The MLS can help you look like a seasoned pro, even in your first few months.
HOW TO GET STARTED WITH CHS MLS
1. Log into Flexmls
CHS MLS uses Flexmls, a powerful and customizable system that supports both desktop and mobile use. Once you’ve completed your online intro class, and we’ve verified your license, etc., you’ll receive login credentials. CHS MLS uses single sign-on (SSO) technology which allows you to login with one set of credentials, but access all of your MLS tools without needing to login to each additional tool.
Flexmls will be your go-to app there, and allows you to:
Create and manage listings
Run searches with advanced filters
Save custom searches for buyers
Set up email alerts for clients
Generate professional reports and CMAs
2. Bookmark the QuickStart Hub
The QuickStart Hub on the CHS MLS website is a great go-to resource for training videos, how-to guides, and software updates. It’s especially helpful if you're still getting familiar with Flexmls and need to troubleshoot or expand your knowledge.
3. Browse Trainings in Our Library
Not sure where to start or want to brush up on something specific? Our site links to a robust on-demand training video library designed to fit your schedule. These short, focused videos cover everything from beginner basics to advanced features in Flexmls and related tools.
Whether you want to learn how to:
Set up auto-emails for clients
Build a CMA
Use map overlays
Navigate the mobile app
Or simply refresh your knowledge on inputting a listing
—you’ll find helpful walkthroughs available anytime, at your pace.
COMMON MLS TOOLS YOU'LL USE
Once you’re in the system, here are a few features you’ll be using regularly:
Saved Searches & Auto Notifications
Set up tailored searches based on your clients’ criteria and let the system automatically alert them (and you) when a matching property hits the market.
Client Portals
Flexmls offers customized portals where clients can view listings you send, favorite properties, and communicate back with you.
Listing Input & Management
You'll enter your own listings into the system, making sure to follow CHS MLS rules about accuracy and completeness. This is how your listings get syndicated to major websites like Realtor.com (if your brokerage participates), and beyond.
Market Reports & CMAs
Run side-by-side property comparisons, price trend graphs, and neighborhood stats to help clients understand value and make informed decisions.
IMPORTANT RULES FOR NEW USERS
As a new agent, download the fines cheatsheet and make sure you're aware of CHS MLS's basic rules and compliance standards:
Listing Accuracy: All listings must be entered with full and accurate data. Misleading or incomplete listings can result in fines or suspension.
Timely Updates: Status changes (under contract, sold, etc.) must be updated within set timeframes.
Photo & Media Standards: There are guidelines around what kinds of images and videos can be used in listings.
Fair Housing Compliance: Avoid discriminatory language and ensure that your listings are inclusive.
If you’re ever unsure, the CHS Regional MLS Rules & Regulations and support team are there to help you stay compliant.
LEARNING NEVER STOPS: ONGOING TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES
Take advantage of live webinars, on-demand videos, and one-on-one support to deepen your skills and stay on top of updates to the system.
Whether you want to master creating a branded CMA or set up custom map searches for buyers, there's always more to learn—and the support is just a phone call or email away.
Contact MLS Support:
📞 843-760-9410
PRO TIPS FROM EXPERIENCED AGENTS
To wrap up, here are a few real-world tips from agents who have been in your shoes:
Practice Daily: Spend a little time each day clicking around in Flexmls. You’ll get faster and more confident.
Use Saved Searches for Yourself: Not just your clients—keep tabs on your farm area and what’s moving.
Bookmark the Rules: Keep the CHS MLS Rules & Regulations PDF handy. It’ll save you from unintentional violations.
Customize Your Dashboard: Tailor your Flexmls home screen so you see your most-used tools first.
Build Relationships: The MLS is a cooperative system. Treat your fellow agents with professionalism and respect—they might be on the other side of your next deal.
Getting familiar with CHS MLS isn’t just a box to check—it’s a power-up for your real estate career. The more you use it, the more value you’ll provide to your clients and the more confident you’ll feel navigating Charleston’s vibrant market.
Take the time to learn the platform, explore its tools, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. We’re here to support you every step of the way. Welcome to the community!
