With heightened market activity this past year, the FVREB is experiencing higher than average calls and emails. Since most involve relatively straightforward queries about the FVREB’s MLS® System and member conduct, we urge members to follow the information below first if you have questions or concerns before contacting the Board.
1. The FVREB’s MLS® System Rules:
Many calls and emails, especially given the current market, are about member access to listed properties, presentation of offers, or multiple offers. These topics are covered in the Rules of Cooperation (rules 3.22, 4.02, and 4.04 respectively). The Rules also address the following matters: listings, offers, sales, professional conduct, commission, advertising, Virtual Office Websites, lockboxes and access cards, use of MLS® data, and forms software.
As part of efforts to enhance professionalism, we remind all members of their obligation to be familiar with the Rules – which can be found on REALTOR Link® here. Once open on your computer, use “Ctrl” + “F” on your keyboard to search the document.
2. FVREB MLS® System Data Corrections:
Instead of calling or emailing the FVREB with a correction to a particular MLS® listing on Paragon, use the “Correction” button to provide a detailed description of the issue that needs to be reviewed or corrected. The button can be found at the top of the listing:
3. Complaints or Criticism About Another Member:
In busy market conditions, the potential for miscommunication is heightened and could lead to disputes or disagreements. However, it is always best to aim to resolve any misunderstandings directly between the members involved before involving the FVREB.
In support of enhancing professionalism, members should talk about the issue with their managing broker first before contacting the FVREB. Additionally, section 2 of the Rules of Cooperation states that any complaint or criticism about another member concerning any transactions or activities connected with the FVREB’s MLS® System must be made to the management of the office of that other member; and where the matter of the complaint or criticism is not settled to the satisfaction of all concerned, then such complaint or criticism shall be made in writing to the FVREB. In the spirit of the Rules, the same applies to complaints or criticism in connection with matters of member conduct.
The FVREB’s Complaint Form can be found on our website here, and it is required in order to make a complaint.
4. Before You Contact the Professional Standards Department:
The FVREB does not provide advice on questions or concerns regarding contractual issues. As such, members may wish to seek their own legal advice.
The FVREB supports members’ professionalism and appreciates your cooperation and efforts.
Source: FVREB MLS® and Professional Standards