Pending Status Follow-Up

We have had quite a bit of response from the membership regarding our Pending Status post a couple of weeks ago, which you can find here.

A few points of clarification – First, please review the previous post for the policy about changing a status to either include a contingency or to pending.  Second, please remember that this policy is to be followed by all MLS subscribers and their associates.  The practice of leaving a listing as active, without a contingency added, when there is a signed purchase and sale contract in place is in direct violation and the MLS Board of Directors will review repeat offenders for potential disciplinary action.

That said, if you have reviewed our previous post and have any question about what the policy is please contact the Board Office for clarification.  We would much rather assist you than institute a fine!  Third, this is one of those “self-policing” issues that exist in our business.  The staff has no way of knowing when a listing has been placed under agreement nor do we know if your colleagues are failing to report status changes or refusing to show properties that are still marked as active.  Finally, if you run up against this issue, it is in everyone’s best interest to contact the Board Office so we can rectify the status displaying in the database.  We do not use your name when contacting the listing broker and/or agent nor will we disclose it if asked and we can take the opportunity as a learning tool to remind specific brokers about the correct policy.  If we have repeat offenders that can be addressed as well.

While we understand that it is frustrating, we do want to help all brokers to be on a level-playing field and to assist those who may not be familiar with the policies or the rules and regulations.  We request that you take the moment to contact us if you need assistance!