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Top Compliance Questions

In this article, you’ll find answers to the most common questions received by your compliance team.

Photos & Media

How many photos can I add to a listing?

You can upload up to 100 photos per listing.


Is there a minimum number of photos required?

Yes. Each listing must have at least one photo when it is entered into the MLS.


What are the rules for the primary (first) photo?

The first photo must:

  • Show the exterior of the property

  • For condos, show the exterior of the building

The following are not allowed as the primary photo:

  • Interior photos

  • Aerial views

  • Views (water, skyline, etc.)

  • Photo collages


What happens if photo rules are violated?

This is considered a minor violation and may result in a minimum $50 fine.


Days on Market (DOM & CDOM)

How Long Must My Property Sit Off Market Before DOM Starts at Zero?

  • Expired Listings - Listings in an expired status can be copy/cloned and placed back on the market with Days on Market starting at zero.

  • Withdrawn or Cancelled Listings - Listings in a withdrawn or cancelled status must sit off market for 30 days in order to be added as a new listing with DOM starting at zero.

When does Cumulative Days on Market (CDOM) reset?

Listings must be off market for 90 days before CDOM resets to zero.

This is the date the seller allows the listing to be entered into the MLS. It is used to calculate DOM.


What is the Listing Agreement Date?

This is the date the seller signs the listing agreement.


Coming Soon Listings

Can I advertise a Coming Soon listing?

Yes. Advertising is allowed once the listing is entered as Coming Soon in the MLS.

However, it will not be syndicated to public websites.


Can a Coming Soon listing be shown?

No.

  • No showings are allowed

  • No previews, open houses, or virtual tours

  • This applies to both agents and sellers


Will Days on Market accumulate during Coming Soon?

Yes, but DOM will reset to zero once the listing becomes Active.


Where can I find the Coming Soon Addendum?

It is available in your Member Portal under BR Documents.


Listing Status & Lifecycle

How long can a listing stay in Active Under Contract (AUC)?

A listing can remain in AUC until it closes.

  • Sellers may continue accepting backup offers

  • Showings may continue depending on seller preference


Do sellers have to disclose they are keeping a listing Active Under Contract?

No, this disclosure is not required.


Can a withdrawn or cancelled listing be reactivated?

Yes, it can be placed Back on Market, depending on timing and rules.


What are the rules for “For Sale” signs?

  • Only the listing broker’s sign may be displayed

  • Signs must be removed within 5 business days after the listing is cancelled, expired, leased, or closed


Listing Types & Definitions

What is a Limited Service Listing?

A listing where the broker provides limited services, such as:

  • Not scheduling showings

  • Not presenting offers

  • Not assisting with negotiations

This must be clearly disclosed in the MLS.


What is an Equitable Interest Listing?

A listing where a seller is selling only an option or assigning in interest in a contract and does not have legal title to the property.

Equitable interest listings entered into the system must be marked Equitable Interest = Yes and a disclaimer will be automatically placed in both the public and agent remarks that reads "This is an equitable interest listing where seller is selling only an option or assigning an interest in a contract and does not have legal title to the property."


What is a Brokerage Exclusive listing?

A listing that is:

  • Only visible within the brokerage

  • Not shared broadly in the MLS

  • Requires seller authorization


What is Value Range Marketing (VRM)?

A pricing strategy where:

  • A price range is listed instead of a single price

  • Must be disclosed in remarks

  • Requires seller approval


Listing Content Rules

Are agent details allowed in Public Remarks?

No. This is considered branding and is not allowed.


Can commission or bonuses be included in the listing?

No. Compensation details are strictly prohibited.


What is considered “branding”?

Branding includes:

  • Agent or brokerage names

  • Logos

  • Contact information

  • Website links


Property & Search Details

What qualifies as a bedroom?

Generally must meet standards such as:

  • Proper egress

  • Minimum size

  • Adequate ceiling height

  • Heat source (per ANSI guidelines)


What is the difference between Waterfront and Waterview?

  • Waterfront: Direct access to water

  • Waterview: Water is visible but not directly accessible


What are Seller Concessions?

Costs paid by the seller on behalf of the buyer (excluding broker compensation).


Listing Setup & Process

What is the correct order for setting up a listing?

  1. Secure a signed listing agreement

  2. Enter the listing into the MLS

  3. Add sign and lockbox


When must a listing be entered into the MLS?

Within 3 business days of signing (or within 24 hours of public marketing/signage).


Can I use “Use GPS” in directions?

Yes, but you must also include written directions.


Buyer Agreements

Can buyer agreements be customized?

Yes. Agents can structure agreements with:

  • Hourly rates

  • Flat fees

  • Percentages

  • Specific timeframes or properties


Can buyer agreements be amended?

Yes, but:

  • Must be agreed upon by the buyer

  • Must have a legitimate business reason

  • Cannot be used solely to increase compensation


Can agents have multiple agreements with a buyer?

Generally no for the same services, but separate agreements may be used if services differ (e.g., new construction vs resale).


Can a listing agent request to see a buyer agreement?

Typically no. Buyer agreements are confidential and should not be shared.

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