These rules are the heart of of Our MLS system.
Listing Rules
- Every listing must have a signed listing agreement.
- No listing may be uploaded without owner authorization.
- Listings must include accurate price, location, size, ownership type, and status.
- Duplicate listings are not allowed unless approved.
- Status must be updated within 48 hours.
- Sold, withdrawn, pending, and under-offer listings must be marked correctly.
Cooperation Rules
- Listing agent must state whether the listing is open to co-broking.
- Buyer agent commission must be confirmed in writing.
- MLS should not fix commissions. Let members negotiate compensation separately to avoid anti-competitive risk.
This is very important because modern MLS systems internationally are under pressure around commission rules and competition. Reuters reported continuing antitrust litigation around MLS/pocket-listing policies, and AP reported major changes to old commission practices in the US.
Data Rules
- MLS owns the database structure.
- Agent/broker owns their listing content.
- Seller grants permission for display.
- No scraping, copying, or republishing without consent.
- Public display can be limited by seller instruction.
Enforcement
- First breach: warning
- Second breach: EC$250 fine
- Serious breach: suspension
- Repeated false listings: removal from MLS
