NorthstarMLS Invests in Next-Generation Consumer Home Search with Broker Public Portal

Minneapolis, Minn. — NorthstarMLS today announced a strategic partnership with industry-owned technology alliance Broker Public Portal (BPP) to power a next-generation MLS consumer search platform designed to deliver a more transparent, accurate and broker-connected home search experience.   

The initiative represents a significant step in NorthstarMLS’s long-term technology strategy. By aligning with an industry-owned home search platform, the MLS enhances its ability to deliver modern digital tools that prioritize accuracy—such as Cribio’s AI-powered natural language search, which is used exclusively to help buyers find agent-verified, objective facts about properties. This approach ensures consumers can trust the information they find, supports broker attribution, protects the integrity of listing data and fosters meaningful engagement with today’s homebuyers. 

“We are keeping real estate professionals front and center to the consumer home search experience,” said Tim Dain, NorthstarMLS CEO. “This partnership reflects a deliberate strategy to invest in a consumer search platform built on accurate MLS listing data, fair display principles and direct connections between buyers and listing brokers.” 

Through this partnership, NorthstarMLS will utilize BPP technology to elevate its consumer-facing home search experience, empowering brokers and sellers with greater choice. Listings will benefit from increased visibility on Cribio.com, BPP’s national home search platform, expanding reach across a trusted, industry-led network that emphasizes data accuracy and transparency.  

“Broker Public Portal keeps the relationships brokers and agents have with their clients at the forefront,” said NorthstarMLS Board of Directors Chair Claire Shaw. “It positions them to compete more effectively while reinforcing the value of the MLS in an increasingly digital marketplace.” 

“NorthstarMLS is setting the pace for AI innovation in real estate, taking decisive action rather than waiting for others to move,” said Dan Troup, CEO of Broker Public Portal. “While many organizations remain cautious, Tim Dain and his team are actively investing in advanced tools that leverage AI, strengthening broker value and building consumer trust. As more MLSs look to modernize their digital presence, partnerships like this help define the future of home search. One where accurate listing data, fair display, and direct broker connections are foundational, not optional.” 

About NorthstarMLS

NorthstarMLS provides multiple listing services, technology solutions and market insights to real estate professionals across the Upper Midwest, including a majority of Minnesota and parts of Western Wisconsin and North Dakota. In 2025, the organization provided real estate professionals access to more than 97,000 listings, facilitating over 75,000 real estate transactions, contributing nearly $30.4 billion to the regional economy. NorthstarMLS is committed to innovation, data accuracy and delivering tools that help brokers and agents succeed in a competitive real estate marketplace. For more information, visit www.northstarmls.com. 

About Broker Public Portal

Founded in 2014, Broker Public Portal (BPP) is a nationwide alliance of MLSs and brokerages working together to reshape how people search for homes online. Built on transparency, trust and the Fair Display Guidelines, BPP delivers a consumer-first home search experience powered by the most accurate, up-to-date data directly from the source. Its flagship product, Cribio, is the smarter way to search for your next home. For partnerships, please visit www.brokerpublicportal.com, and for property search, visit www.cribio.com. 

Media Contacts

Monika Sollee | for BPP
Monika@wavgroup.com 

Dorothy Lewis | for NorthstarMLS
dlewis@northstarmls.com