State-Licensed RE agent/broker must subscribe to Realtor® brand to access Multiple Listing Service?

[Neil G.]

If so, in which states?

And if so, how does that not violate anti-trust laws clearly against monopolization?

Can't help but notice that like 99% of MLS providers' initials end in 'AR' for Association (of) Realtors®

i understand ethics requirements and good for the community and such, but arent even those intrinsic to state license issuer, not commercial brand?

[Mark Guy]

Agents in VA are not required to be members of the local, state or national associations. Membership allows one the use of the name Realtor and the Realtor trademark. Membership has nothing to do with the competency of the agent. It's their desire (or not) to pay an exorbitant annual fee for very few services.