Interesting news – Connecticut has enacted new legislation that requires agents marketing 1–4 unit residential properties for sale to share it with the general public through either the MLS or another publicly accessible listing platform.  Right now, that is a Berkshire MLS rule, but this now makes it a law in the state of Connecticut.  There is a carve out, just as we have – if a seller chooses not to publicly market the property, they must sign a state-prescribed Public Marketing Opt-Out Form acknowledging the decision.  They are trying to ensure homes are available to consumers and not “pocketed” without the seller’s understanding of the impact of that decision and lawful instruction to proceed in that manner. Violations may result in: fines of up to $5,000 per violation, suspension or revocation of a real estate license or other disciplinary action by the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.

Bravo to Connecticut REALTORS®, which submitted testimony in favor of the bill during the legislative process.  Why this matters?  Connecticut joins a growing number of states that have adopted statutory requirements governing the public marketing of residential listings. While MLS organizations and REALTOR® associations across the country continue to discuss topics such as office exclusives, delayed marketing, and seller choice, Connecticut has addressed these issues through state law rather than relying solely on MLS policy. Interesting New England development!