In a landmark move set to reshape the real estate landscape, the Miami Association of Realtors and Broward, Palm Beaches and St. Lucie Realtors (RWorld) have officially merged. This strategic union creates the largest local Realtor association in the United States, boasting a combined membership of approximately 93,000 professionals. The merger aims to enhance services, streamline data access, and bolster South Florida’s position as a global real estate hub.
Key Takeaways
- Unprecedented Scale: The new entity, provisionally named Miami and South Florida Realtors, is more than double the size of the next largest local association in the U.S.
- Enhanced Member Services: The merger promises broader and more fluid access to data, tools, and services, simplifying operations for members.
- Leadership Transition: Key leadership roles have been established, with a plan for a smooth CEO transition and historical appointments.
- MLS Consolidation: The integration of MLS platforms is expected to create the third-largest MLS in the country.
A New Era for South Florida Realtors
The merger, effective May 11, 2026, brings together the 56,000-member Miami Realtors with the 37,000-member RWorld. This consolidation is expected to significantly benefit the 93,000 collective members and their clients by removing the limitations and complexities of multiple memberships. Alfredo Pujol, chairman of the board of Miami Association of Realtors, will serve as the first chairman of the combined association’s board. RWorld President Jonathan Dolphus will assume the role of 2026 chair-elect and 2027 chairman of the board, marking a significant moment as the first African American chairman for both legacy organizations.
Streamlined Operations and Global Reach
Under the proposed name Miami and South Florida Realtors, pending approval by the National Association of Realtors, the new organization will offer members access to two MLS platform options, Flexmls and Matrix. The merger also includes the integration of their respective MLSs, which will eventually form the third-largest MLS in the nation. This combined entity will also gain access to 11 data exchanges with major MLSs in the U.S. and Canada, and plans to join the Global Data Exchange (GDX) for cross-border listing data.
Teresa King Kinney, CEO of Miami, and Dionna Hall, CEO of RWorld, will serve as co-CEOs. Kinney is set to retire at the end of 2026 after a 33-year career, after which Hall will continue as the sole CEO. The operational structure will maintain division boards, with Evian White De Leon and Kim Hansen serving as COOs for their respective divisions.
Industry Consolidation Continues
This significant merger aligns with a broader trend of consolidation within the real estate industry. The move addresses criticisms regarding the fragmentation of the MLS landscape in the U.S., aiming to create a more efficient and connected ecosystem for real estate professionals. The combined entity’s substantial membership and expanded data access are poised to enhance profitability and success for its members in an increasingly global marketplace.
Sources
- Mega-merger in Florida creates largest local association in US, RealEstateNews.com.
- Florida Associations Miami Realtors and RWorld Announce Merger — RISMedia, RISMedia.
- Fla. Realtor Groups’ Merger Will Reach Across County Lines, Law360.
- MIAMI REALTORS® and Broward, Palm Beaches & St. Lucie Realtors® to merge in May, South Florida Agent Magazine.
- Florida Realtors Group to Merge, Creating New Mega-Association, Weekly Real Estate News.