Social media channels make it very easy to share information with a click of a button.  While it may be tempting to share another agent’s listing on your social media page, there are dos and don’ts to sharing safely.  Before you hit the “share” button, make sure that you are doing so within the parameters of CVR MLS rules to avoid potential compliance violations*.  

The Rules:

IDX rules provide that a listing participant’s permission for display is “presumed” unless the participant affirmatively refuses that display, which can be done on a blanket or listing-by-listing basis.  In the MLS, restricting this permission is done through the “Internet Y/N” selection in the listing input process.  By clicking “yes,” the listing agent agrees to allow their listing to be displayed on IDX and certain third-party sites.    

Do’s and Don’ts

Here are some dos and don’ts to consider when sharing a listing:

• Many brokerages allow agents within their firm to share or reshare brokerage listings on social media pages.  Check with your broker and/or your firm’s office policy for specific parameters for reposting a firm listing.
• You may share a listing on your social media page if the listing is sourced from an IDX website.  The link must be one-click away from a fully compliant IDX listing page.  However:
  • If the platform’s character limit is under 200 characters, the thumbnail to the compliant IDX listing page is sufficient.
  • If the social media platform allows more than 200 characters (like Facebook and Instagram), you must provide attribution to the listing agent.  
  • Any added commentary should be accurate and not misleading, particularly regarding the listing agent or firm. 
• If the social media platform does not allow for a direct link to an IDX compliant website, you must have written permission from the listing agent before posting.  (And if you do get permission, follow the next bullet.)
• If you have received written permission from a listing agent to share a listing, be sure that the post clearly states that permission.  We suggest using language like:  this listing is shared with permission from [listing agent] of [listing firm]  or something similar.
• Don't post videos of other listings on social media without written permission. This includes Reels, Shorts, and TikTok clips.  There is a common misconception that it’s permissible if you don’t identify the property address and keep the details vague.  But this is not correct – you still need written permission before filming and posting (and trust us, someone will recognize that kitchen or backyard!)  

When in doubt, please reach out!  CVR MLS staff can help if you have questions or need clarification on social media protocol for MLS data.  Contact us at [email protected].

*This article is intended to provide general guidance on the CVR MLS Rules and Regulations.  You should also review NAR’s Code of Ethics and VREB Regulations for additional advertising guidelines.