Inside RESO Spring Conference 2025

By MLSPropTech.com | April 21, 2025

Last week, the RESO Spring Conference brought real estate’s brightest minds to the slopes of Tucson for four days of insights, deep conversations, and (of course) more than a few margaritas. Set against the backdrop of the JW Marriott Starr Pass, with an open lobby bar with sunset views that practically demanded you linger around the fireplaces, the event this year was charged with anticipation. 

 

You may have seen our team on site connecting with familiar faces and making our way to the coffee tables outside the room every other session (can you blame us?). Here’s what stood out to us about the conference.

 

A Clearer Focus on AI, Data Sovereignty, and Interoperability

 

This year’s sessions zeroed in on the emerging crossroads of AI and MLS operations, as well as data sovereignty; a topic gaining traction across MLSs. There was a renewed urgency around governance of data, not just in how it’s structured, but in who controls it and how it’s monetized.

 

On Wednesday, the Interoperability Workgroup with Chris Haran (MRED) and Catharine MacIntosh (Listed) tackled how systems can better communicate with each other, while the popular Data Dictionary Workgroup—led by RESO mainstays Rob Larson and Kevin Tranby—dug into the structure for the real estate industry's universal language for technology.

 

Rounding out the day, the Web API Office Hours, sponsored by SourceRE, provided attendees direct access to MLS vendors to talk about RESO-certified Web API services. And, of course, the signature open bar and those sweet prickly pear margaritas made an appearance. 

 

MLS Data Exchange Takes Center Stage

 

One session that sparked big conversations in the hallways was “Agile MLS Data Exchanges and Structures,” presented by Daniel Jones (CEO, Hive MLS), Bill Fowler (President, SourceRE), and Andrew Coca (CEO, Modern.tech and SourceRE).

 

This session offered a glimpse into the future of MLS data management and collaboration, introducing the MLS Data Exchange (MDX) model as a scalable, standards-based solution to the fragmentation MLSs are facing.

 

In fact, you may have seen the MDX Whitepaper as the cover feature in your copy of the MLS-PropTech Digest, which made its way to every chair in the room. 

 

As for the takeaway of the session, the MDX model is a strategic framework that allows MLSs to regain control over their data and build stronger, more agile relationships with other organizations.

 

If you missed the session, you can read the full whitepaper here. 

 

Connections That Matter

 

As much as the sessions drove value, so did the conversations that spilled over into the hallways, patios, and yes, the lobby bar overlooking downtown Tucson. Between the southwestern menu, warm breezy weather, and panoramic views, it was easy to relax and let the conversations flow.

 

For us at MLSPropTech.com, it was also the perfect setting to share news of our own: our site now features a new integration with RESO, bringing RESO membership badges to our MLS and PropTech directories. 

 

What’s Next?

 

After flying back to our respective hometowns and shedding the blues of letting Tucson go, one thing is clearer than ever: this is a moment of alignment. 

 

MLSs are evolving, PropTech companies are growing up, and RESO is doubling down on its role as the connective tissue of this ecosystem.

 

We’re already looking ahead to what’s next. Until then, cheers to a well-run conference, new partnerships, and one very memorable margarita recipe.