With an open system like ours, the broker controls the data flow. Basically, ERA and Coldwell have built a Web-based front end that communicates with a legacy back end. Mitchell offers other advantages to the Internet solution. A primary advantage is the low cost to the brokers for data handling and error checking. Another feature is you can do a preview of what the listing looks like.
Agents can catch their own errors at that point.
If you have a property in Brentwood, it really is in Los Angeles. MLSs have always viewed the Internet as a threat rather than an opportunity. They are slow to the party to roll out open standards. The MLSs can still control it and distribute it to anyone they want. The politics just get in the way.