Sam DeBord

Tech. Real estate. College football. CEO @RESOstandards, author - @PwC @ColdwellBanker @NARreach @USC @UW #proptech

[Sam DeBord @samdebord]

2005, Bluetooth CEO: Next year you’ll be able to stream music to your car stereo from your phone.
Analyst: Are you stupid?

My ears are burning. @reckless and @BluetoothSIG former CEO @WirelessMike describe @RESOstandards in a parallel universe.

🧵 1/many
https://t.co/bsYgAtLFoM

[MLSFORUM @MLSFORUM1]

𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐛𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐭 𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐯𝐚𝐥𝐮𝐞𝐬, 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞.

Following the signing of our Memorandum of Understanding in Vienna, we are honored to receive the support of Lily Chang, FIABCI World President, whose vision for the future of real estate closely aligns with that of GDX.

As Lily Chang shared:

“𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘶𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭 𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘤𝘰𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘧𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘥𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘰𝘷𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘷𝘢𝘭𝘶𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘺.”

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐛𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐧 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐎𝐔 𝐢𝐧 𝐕𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐚 𝐛𝐲 Antonio Campagnoli, 𝐈𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐅𝐈𝐀𝐁𝐂𝐈 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭, 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐞𝐬.

Together, GDX - Global Data Exchange and FIABCI, The International Real Estate Federation are helping connect real estate markets through transparent, standards-based data exchange while respecting local governance, local expertise, and the diversity of every market.

This partnership reflects our shared commitment to advancing interoperability, fostering cross-border collaboration, and shaping the future of global real estate.

@FIABCI , #FIABCIEmirates, #FIABCIAustria, #ADRES, #RealtyFeed, @RESOStandards

[Sam DeBord @samdebord]

I need your help. What's the best strategy advice you've ever gotten or given?

I'm finalizing my 1st book on strategic planning (prep for your planning team). I want to incorporate the knowledge of my friends and associates. Is there a quote or idea that you think anyone participating in strategic planning should understand?

I might incorporate the idea or quote into the book, which should be published for this year's winter planning season. (2nd book, Comprehensive Guide to the MLS, is coming next.)

Thanks to those who've contributed advice and inspiration so far: Rebecca Jensen, Errol Samuelson, Art Carter, Valerie Garcia, Holly Mabery, Dirk Zeller, Stefan Swanepoel, Clint Skutchan, Diane Ruggiero, Michael Cutlip, John Smaby, David Charron

[Sam DeBord @samdebord]

@VendorAlley https://t.co/Kzffdf3D35

[Sam DeBord @samdebord]

A point-to-point global network, each node controlling its data, each partnership with its own license, each participant controlling its display: large MLSs across four continents are already onboard. Big announcements coming soon:

[MLSFORUM @MLSFORUM1]

What does it take to build a more transparent, connected, and future-ready real estate industry?

In the next episode of GDX Talks, Razan Mohamed sits down with Merri Jo Cowen, President at GDX - Global Data Exchange, Chief Vision Officer at Stellar MLS, and EVP at UCO, for a conversation on the future of MLS, trusted data, industry collaboration, and the technologies shaping real estate worldwide.

With decades of leadership experience and a lasting impact on the MLS landscape, Merri Jo shares valuable insights on how innovation and interoperability are transforming the way real estate markets operate.

🎙️ Episode Out Now on GDX Talks.
🔗 YouTube Link: https://t.co/2MiiFM8YCX

#GDX #GDXTalks #StellarMLS #MLS #RealEstate #PropTech #DataTransparency #RealEstateInnovation #GlobalRealEstate

[MLSFORUM @MLSFORUM1]

What does it take to build a more transparent, connected, and future-ready real estate industry?

In the next episode of GDX Talks, Razan Mohamed sits down with Merri Jo Cowen, President at GDX - Global Data Exchange, Chief Vision Officer at Stellar MLS, and EVP at UCO, for a conversation on the future of MLS, trusted data, industry collaboration, and the technologies shaping real estate worldwide.

With decades of leadership experience and a lasting impact on the MLS landscape, Merri Jo shares valuable insights on how innovation and interoperability are transforming the way real estate markets operate.

🎙️ Episode Out Now on GDX Talks.
🔗 YouTube Link: https://t.co/2MiiFM8YCX

#GDX #GDXTalks #StellarMLS #MLS #RealEstate #PropTech #DataTransparency #RealEstateInnovation #GlobalRealEstate

[Sam DeBord @samdebord]

Worth watching:

[@VendorAlley @VendorAlley]

Going dutch with "nora" https://t.co/cWGQCuvnHx via @vendoralley

[Sam DeBord @samdebord]

RT @RESOStandards: RESO CTO Josh Darnell recently walked through new tech tools in a recorded webinar that covered RESO's Reference Server,…

[RESOStandards @RESOStandards]

June's RESO Monthly offers signups for RESO Summer Camp, including updates on RED courses, certification, the Data Dictionary, RESO Analytics and new tools. Fall Conference registration is also open! Submit a session proposal or apply for the RPR Connections Grant. https://t.co/DImIBMzD6y

[Sam DeBord @samdebord]

@victorlund @gregrobertson @mwurzer @robhahn Right, even if we have to expand slightly, we need more clarity.
Broker private, brokers only (MLS participant-only viewable coming soon), portal coming soon/public MLS coming soon (same if we got our infrastructure right but disjointed now), active, contingent, pending, sold.

[Sam DeBord @samdebord]

@gregrobertson @victorlund @mwurzer @robhahn PLN is such a blunt instrument of a term. Single brokerage-housed PLN isn't the same as MLS-wide "participant viewable" PLN, isn't office exclusive only viewable to listing broker's agents in MLS, isn't OE submitted to MLS but not viewable in MLS at all.

We need better words.

[Sam DeBord @samdebord]

@robhahn @mwurzer @gregrobertson You say it's "broken", the majority vote with their actions and still use it (not broken), the MLS should bring ease to the cooperative's majority will and a minor inconvenience creating great flexibility to the minority. This is a weird and probably unproductive argument.

[MLSFORUM @MLSFORUM1]

🚀 "For the first time, I feel like I have control over my listings abroad.”

That’s the kind of reaction that says everything.

When we chose GDX and RESO standards, it wasn’t just about technology—it was about trust, structure, and real global opportunity.

What makes GDX different?

It’s simple… and complex at the same time.

👉 Simple—because now an Italian agent can reach international markets in a structured, reliable way

👉 Complex—because every country brings its own rules, systems, and legal frameworks

But that’s exactly where the value is.

Instead of losing control through emails and disconnected processes, agents can now:
✔ See their listings across markets
✔ Maintain control of their data
✔ Collaborate globally with confidence

And most importantly…

🌍 Listings are no longer local—they become global assets.

More visibility.
More qualified buyers.
More real collaboration.

That’s the shift.

Curious—how important is data control when working across borders in your market? Listen to Giulio Azzolini from ListingPlus in Italy in this engaging podcast.

#GDX - Global Data Exchange, @RESOStandards , #ADRES, @RealtyFeed1 , https://t.co/KIEqSAXlUU
Thanks to @hallocasam / Michael Franz

[MLSFORUM @MLSFORUM1]

🇮🇹 Announcing GDX / IMLSF Ambassador in Italy

We are proud to announce @giulio_azzolini - CEO of Listing+ - as the official Ambassador of GDX - Global Data Exchange and the International MLS Forum(IMLSF) in Italy.

Italy represents one of Europe’s most dynamic and internationally attractive real estate markets, with growing interest from buyers across Europe, North America, and beyond. In this context, the development of structured, standards-based international collaboration is becoming increasingly important.

🤝 Giulio brings strong leadership and a clear vision for supporting this evolution, helping connect the Italian market with global standards and cross-border opportunities, while preserving its local identity and governance.

His role as Ambassador will be to support the development of the GDX ecosystem in Italy by fostering collaboration, education, and adoption among local real estate professionals.

Through this growth, the Italian market can benefit from:

✔️ Greater global visibility for listings

✔️ Improved access to qualified international buyers

✔️ Faster, more standardized collaboration between professionals

✔️ Full preservation of local rules and market control

This appointment marks another step toward a more connected and interoperable real estate ecosystem—where local strength and global opportunity work together.

🚀 Congratulations Giulio, and welcome to this leadership role!

[MLSFORUM @MLSFORUM1]

We are proud to announce Alex Escudero as the official Ambassador of GDX - Global Data Exchange and the International MLS Forum (IMLSF) for Latin America.

With more than 20 years of international real estate leadership experience across the U.S., Europe, and Latin America, Alex has built a reputation for driving cross-border growth, strategic partnerships, and market connectivity across both institutional and private sectors.

He previously served as Director of Global Strategy at the National Association of REALTORS®, where he helped strengthen international real estate relations and expand global collaboration initiatives. He also served on the Executive Committee of FIABCI, supporting innovation and international cooperation throughout the industry.

Latin America represents one of the world’s most dynamic and rapidly evolving real estate regions, with increasing international demand and growing momentum toward standards-based collaboration.

Through this appointment, GDX continues its mission to:
• Expand global market access for local professionals
• Enable cross-border listing visibility through RESO standards
• Foster trusted international collaboration
• Preserve local governance through a federated model

Alex’s expertise, strategic vision, and deep relationships across Spanish-speaking markets make him uniquely positioned to help connect Latin America to a broader global real estate ecosystem.

Welcome to the GDX / IMLSF leadership network, Alex.

[MLSFORUM @MLSFORUM1]

🌍 What happens when a local market builds trust first — and then connects globally?

In our latest episode of GDX Talks, 🎙️ Eman Al Tal joins Natalie Ghazaley, GDX, and ADRES for an important conversation about the future of real estate infrastructure, global interoperability, and why trusted data is becoming the foundation of cross-border investment.

From the development of Madhmoun — Abu Dhabi’s trusted real estate backbone — to becoming the first MLS in MENA & Asia to achieve Real Estate Standards Organization @resostandards certification, this discussion explores how structured, verified data is transforming markets and enabling a new era of global collaboration through GDX.

💡 Key themes discussed:

✔️ Why trust is the foundation of modern real estate markets
✔️ How Madhmoun transformed transparency in Abu Dhabi
✔️ The importance of RESO standards for global interoperability
✔️ How GDX connects markets while preserving local authority
✔️ Why AI in real estate is only as powerful as the quality of data behind it
✔️ How trusted infrastructure can accelerate international investment

A special thank you to ADRES, @thinkprop.ae , Eman A., and Natalie Ghazaley for this insightful discussion and for helping shape the future of a more connected global real estate ecosystem.

🎥 Watch the full conversation and discover what’s next for global real estate.
https://t.co/Xi85mxuMHJ

#GDX #GDXTalks #RealEstate #PropTech #RESO #MLS #GlobalRealEstate #RealEstateInnovation #DataStandards #Interoperability #ADRES #Madhmoun #ThinkProp #AI #CrossBorderInvestment #IMLSF

[RESOStandards @RESOStandards]

This week’s new Product Updates includes a new Data Dictionary website (https://t.co/Q0JDmOIiMt) and RESO Tools dashboard (https://t.co/cSbg7Wtnm1). We also delve into workgroup progress on AI fields, offer management, disaster mitigation, smart home tech, appraisal standards and more. https://t.co/sMssL79g1s

[Sam DeBord @samdebord]

That's a good looking real estate website.

[@VendorAlley @VendorAlley]

RPR-RVM-BPP-CHA-CHA-CHA https://t.co/tQVvCvSxEO via @vendoralley

[MLSFORUM @MLSFORUM1]

We’re pleased to welcome three new education partners to the GDX Network: Global Marketing Agent and THINKPROP

Education is what turns interoperability into adoption. These new partnerships strengthen the learning layer around GDX - Global Data Exchange bringing together cross-border agent enablement, government-recognized real estate training, and internationally grounded instruction.

Global Marketing Agent, represented by Olivier Mevellec, adds a structured cross-border business model built around global marketing agreements, compliant collaboration, and co-marketing infrastructure. Its certification materials say more than 10,000 agents have been trained since 2006.

ThinkProp, led by JASEM ALHOSANI, stands out with its government-aligned education model in the UAE—playing a key role in linking professional training with licensing frameworks, regulatory initiatives, and real estate market development. This positioning is further strengthened through strategic partnerships with leading entities such as CCIM, reinforcing its role in shaping professional standards and advancing the real estate ecosystem in the region.”

#globalmarketingagent , #ThinkProp, special thanks to Audree Mevellec

[RESOStandards @RESOStandards]

Thrilled to have @homesdotcom returning as a #PlatinumSponsor for the #RESO Spring Conference! We appreciate their continued support.

[Sam DeBord @samdebord]

RESO is proud to partner with ADRES in promoting real estate standards to the world, highlighted at this year's #RESO 2026 Spring Conference. RESO's membership has grown to 30+ countries on 5 continents.

ADRES brings global leadership in proptech acceleration and development, focusing on:
- Building trust through transparent data
- Driving digital transformation
- Supporting smarter planning and policies
- Enabling international collaboration

As a RESO Platinum Sponsor, ADRES exemplifies its commitment to excellence in global real estate data proliferation, transparency, accuracy, and interoperability.

Many thanks to our lead partners, Moath Maqbol, Jasem Alhosani, ADRES, Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre, and THINKPROP.

[RESOStandards @RESOStandards]

ADRES is proud to serve as a #PlatinumSponsor of the #RESO 2026 Spring Conference.

As one of the leading global forums for real estate data and innovation, the conference brings together the minds shaping tomorrow’s market, and we’re excited to be part of that journey.

As part of our ongoing efforts to drive innovation and enhance market transparency, we are joining industry leaders to contribute to discussions on data standards, interoperability, and the evolving PropTech landscape.

At ADRES, we focus on:
- Building trust through transparent data
- Driving digital transformation
- Supporting smarter planning and policies
- Enabling international collaboration

This is more than a sponsorship; it’s an opportunity to collaborate, exchange knowledge, and drive meaningful progress across the industry.

#ADRES #RESO2026 #RESOConference #PropTech #RealEstateInnovation #DataStandards #Interoperability #DigitalTransformation #SmartCities #RealEstateData #MLS #GlobalCollaboration #FutureOfRealEstate #MarketTransparency #InnovationLeadership