MLS PIN (Massachusetts) Sends Reminder
By Anthony Longo 19 04 2007
Due to Zillow’s new feature allowing agents to claim listings on their site… the Massachusetts MLS system sent out a reminder today:
Recently, the On-Line Valuation site, Zillow announced a new function being made available to advertise listings for sale on that site, whether or not you are the listing broker/agent. The MLS Rules and Regulations, STRICTLY PROHIBIT the advertising of another broker’s listings without their prior WRITTEN consent. The REALTOR® Code of Ethics, Standard of Practice 12-4 also prohibits the advertising of a listing without proper authority. Better safe than sorry; do not advertise another office’s listing anywhere without prior written approval.
I wonder if other MLS’s are on this nationwide? Anyone?
I know Sellsius and other have had posts on this lately.
Kinda funny how they CAPITALIZE “strictly prohibit” and then go on to close with “better safe than sorry”.
Umm? So is it against the rules or isn’t it? I mean if MLSPIN doesn’t know and they are the ones who both make and enforce the rules then who the heck does know? To me, it feels like they are tyring to indimidate people but that they are not sure if they can actually back their position up.
It’s like the classic real estate agent quip that something is “illegal” and then when you dig a little it always turns out the guy is confusing state law with a company policy.
Their is a bigger question that underlies all this. Is using Zillow’s “Tell Us It’s For Sale” feature actually “advertising” a listing?
The NWMLS has a similar rule prohibiting advertising other members listings without written consent. At least here, they do enforce the rule with a hefty fine. I think the position that Z is taking is that its just notifying a property is for sale rather than advertising it…but it’s a very gray area.
Ok, back from Miami now!
This is all interesting stuff. Terry….good point! I didnt pick up on that.
Seattle – Gray area it is. What is the fine amount?
I believe fine for advertising another member’s listing is $5000. But, they usually reduce it in half so long as the member does not re-offend within a certain time frame.