CRMLS Rules & Policy Changes Effective January 13, 2025

To keep participants informed and compliant, CRMLS has announced several rule updates and policy changes that will take effect on January 13, 2025. Below is a summary of the rules and the updates, explained in plain language.

Rule 7.15 - Restrictions on Sharing Commission Information

What the rule says:
Listing Brokers cannot use the MLS to state or imply the amount of commission they are willing to share with a Buyer Broker. This includes fields, documents, or media uploaded to the MLS. Additionally, Sellers cannot use the MLS to offer specific compensation amounts to Buyer Brokers.

What's new:

• A new sentence was added, requiring any mention of seller concessions (such as financial incentives for buyers) to be placed in the Public Remarks/Property Description field.
• These concessions can be shared as long as they are not tied to paying a Buyer Broker or buyer representative.

Key takeaway:

• Sellers and Listing Brokers can include seller concessions in the Public Remarks, but these cannot specify or be conditioned upon compensating a Buyer Broker.

Rule 10.2(e) - Reporting Sales for Comparable Purposes

What the rule says:
Brokers can report sales information for properties that wouldn’t normally qualify for MLS input, as long as:

• The property is located within the MLS service area.
• The reporting broker was involved in the transaction (representing either the buyer or the seller).
• Authorization from the party they represented is obtained, and supporting documentation is available if requested.

What's new:

• A new sentence requires brokers to submit this sales information to the MLS within 30 days of closing escrow.

Key takeaway:

• Sales data for properties used for comparable purposes must be reported promptly—within 30 days of the close of escrow.

Policy Changes to Citation Rules

CRMLS has revised the fines and penalties for certain violations. Here’s what has changed:

1. Rule 11.5(e) - Branded Media

   • Old fine: $100
   • New fine: $250
   • This rule prohibits branded media (media containing names, logos, or contact information) in MLS listings.

2. Rule 12.5 - Misuse of Public Remarks

   • Violations, where agent or broker contact information appears in the Public Remarks field, will no longer receive a warning.
   • Fine: $250 for the first offense.
   • This rule ensures the Public Remarks field is used only for property descriptions, not for advertising agent or broker contact details.

Key takeaway:

• Be mindful when uploading media or filling out the Public Remarks field. Fines for violations have increased, and warnings are no longer issued for including agent contact information.

Why These Changes Matter

These updates are designed to improve the transparency and accuracy of the MLS, ensuring fair practices for all participants. Adhering to these rules helps maintain professionalism, fosters trust, and reduces misunderstandings in real estate transactions.

If you have questions about these changes or need further clarification, reach out to CRMLS or your association for guidance. Stay informed and compliant to avoid unnecessary fines and disruptions to your business.

Remember: The updated rules take effect on January 13, 2025. Make any necessary adjustments to your practices to stay compliant.

You can print his page here

You may also review the complete CRMLS Rules & Policies here.

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PSAR's Mission is to empower Real Estate Professionals

Since 1928, the Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® has played a significant role in shaping the history, growth, and development of the Real Estate industry in San Diego County.

The Real Estate Rulebook is Being Rewritten. Are You Ready?

2025 brings a wave of new legislation impacting California REALTORS®.  Don't fall behind! Gov Hutchinson, C.A.R. legal expert, will guide you through the critical changes to keep you in the know so you can be the trusted expert to your clients.

Join your peers for this essential legal briefing and future-proof your business.

Tuesday | January 28th, 2025
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Live in the South Service Center
880 Canarios Ct, Chula Vista, CA 91910

Gov. Hutchinson Vice President and Assistant General Counsel of the California Association of REALTORS® is a leading expert in California real estate law. As head of Member Legal Services for the California Association of REALTORS®, he oversees the "Hotline," which provides legal guidance and training to Realtors® across the state. Gov's deep understanding of the law combined with his engaging teaching style make his classes invaluable for REALTORS® at all levels.

Event Sponsors: 

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REALTORS® know how important it is to project a polished, professional image. A great headshot can make a huge impact on your online presence, in your marketing materials, and overall branding. Don't overlook this key component of your real estate market profile!

Insight Photos, brought to you by PSAR, will create professional, brand-enhancing headshot photos for you-- at no charge!  Take advantage of this great offer to create a winning first impression.

The FREE headshots are held once a month at PSAR Offices*
(Photo sessions run from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM no appointment necessary.)

*Live Code of Ethics Classes are held at the PSAR office from 8:30 am-12 pm the day of the photo shoot. Ethics training is required for all REALTORS® every three years.  Members are welcome to attend FREE Ethics training before getting their photos taken! 

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PSAR's Mission is to empower Real Estate Professionals

Since 1928, the Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® has played a significant role in shaping the history, growth, and development of the Real Estate industry in San Diego County.

Have you ever wondered why some client interactions flow seamlessly while others feel like an uphill battle? The answer may lie in understanding personality types and adapting your approach accordingly.

Here's what you'll gain from this transformative session:

• Discover Your Communication Style: Use the DISC Model to identify and leverage your communication strengths with different personalities.
• Master Client-Centric Interactions: Tailor your communication to each client, reducing friction and building trust.
• Stand Out: Offer a unique client experience and connect with diverse personalities for a competitive edge.

Don't miss this chance to elevate your real estate practice through the power of personality-based communication. Happy customers send referrals!

Limited seating available!
Tuesday, December 10th
10:00 - 12:00
PSAR East Meeting Room
1150 Broadway, El Cajon, CA 92021

Free to attend ($99 value)

Speaker: Angel Tucker

Class sponsored by:

Alliance Escrow Inc.                     Beach Moving Co. 

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PSAR's mission is to empower real estate professionals.

Since 1928, the Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® has played a significant role in shaping the history, growth & development of the Real Estate industry in San Diego County.

A REALTORS® business success and professional standing require current C.A.R. Forms knowledge!

November 13th | Wednesday 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM PSAR South Office

November 20 | Wednesday 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM PSAR East Office

About the Speaker:

Broker Nikki Coppa, The Vice-Chair of the C.A.R. Standard Forms Advisory Committee, brings her depth of knowledge and expertise to bear in this class. As a C.A.R. and N.A.R. Director, she has a broad-based understanding of the industry's regulations and best practices.

Testimonials from Nikki's Past Classes

"Nikki does such a thorough job i love taking her class. She is the best facilitator for this, she really shines in the class"

"Thank you for providing the platform for someone like Nikki Coppa to share her knowledge with us. We are better because of it. Keeping the REALTOR bar high."

"Nikki Coppa is absolutely THE BEST. We're SO SO SO SO lucky to have her do this for us PSAR members."

"Nikki was great and easy to understand"

Class sponsored by:
Light Snacks will be provided.

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PSAR's mission is to empower real estate professionals.

Since 1928, the Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® has played a significant role in shaping the history, growth & development of the Real Estate industry in San Diego County.

Attention REALTORS®!

NAR requires all REALTORS® to re-certify their Code of Ethics every three years. If you received notice that you have not completed your certification for the current cycle, you must take action immediately to avoid disruption to your business.

What's at stake?
Loss of access to essential tools includes Zipforms, the Legal Hotline, and other valuable resources.

Suspension of association membership: This can significantly impact your ability to conduct real estate business.

Take Action Now:  Take the FREE C.A.R. Ethics class that counts towards your renewal:

Below is a list of In-Person Ethics Class Dates and locations at PSAR or CLICK HERE - For the free online anytime class.

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Code of Ethics class held at PSAR Offices in 2025

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Energized actions yield dynamic results!

Whether you’re a real estate veteran or just getting your feet wet in the business, this class will teach agents how to reverse engineer your success process. Then, turn small, consistent actions into a powerful momentum engine that will drive your real estate business growth.

The steps to success covered in this class:

• The importance of consistent tracking
• How to implement the "Greatness Tracker" in daily operations
• Strategies for achieving each category's weekly targets
• The concept of "Green Time" and its significance
• Balancing multiple interaction activities (face-to-face meetings,. phone calls, etc.)
• The role of networking and relationship-building
• Importance of follow-up and gratitude expressions (e.g., thank you cards)
• Converting leads into deals: strategies and best practices
• The impact of consistent small actions on overall business growth

880 Canarios Ct, Chula Vista, CA 9191

Meet the Speaker:

Raul de la Vega boasts a career spanning finance, real estate, and public service. Currently serving as Branch Manager at Patriot Home Loans, he oversees operations, marketing, staff management, and lending practices. His early career highlights include a "Rookie of the Year" award at the Network Financial, showcasing his dedication.

Raul also served as Deputy Sheriff and Correctional Officer with integrity and community commitment. He received his Bachelor's in Business Administration from National University.  Raul is dynamic and knowledgeable, with insights across a broad spectrum of topics.

PSAR's mission is to empower real estate professionals.

Since 1928, the Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® has played a significant role in shaping the history, growth & development of the Real Estate industry in San Diego County.

CRMLS has put together classrooms on Zoom to help teach some of the free tools our members have access to as part of PSAR. These are small class sizes that are scheduled for PSAR Members. Becoming proficient with these tools can help you build your business.

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PSAR's Mission is to empower Real Estate Professionals

Since 1928, the Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® has played a significant role in shaping the history, growth, and development of the Real Estate industry in San Diego County.

SHOWCASE YOUR VALUE TO CLIENTS

How to Earn Your Accredited Buyer’s
Representative (ABR®) Designation

Learn More

The ABR® Designation FAQs

*Must be a NAR Member to enroll for Free

In honor of REALTOR® Safety Month, PSAR and retired lieutenant Jim Bolwerk from the San Diego County Sheriff's Department will join Specialist Angela Gaines of the Chula Vista Police Relations & Policing Unit to present essential personal safety practices. They will address common mistakes real estate professionals make and share practical techniques to protect yourself and avoid compromising situations. This invaluable knowledge can benefit both you and your loved ones.

Key class takeaways:

• Master situational awareness
• Tactics for safely working in unfamiliar environments, including open houses
• Developing a mental action plan
• Understanding time and distance advantages
• Do’s and Don'ts of personal safety

Don’t be caught off guard—attend this crucial class!

Thursday, September 5th
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 
Live in the South County Office

Meet the speakers: 

Jim Bolwerk has over 30 years of experience in law enforcement. A former Lieutenant with the San Diego County Sheriff's Office, Jim managed patrol substations, and specialized investigative units, and served as a Department Spokesperson. His deep understanding of safety protocols, coupled with his experience in high-pressure situations, makes him an authority on personal safety and risk management.

Jim has spent the past eight years as a Licensed REALTOR®  successfully navigating the complexities of residential and commercial transactions. His combined expertise in law enforcement and real estate positions him perfectly to provide REALTORS®  with practical, actionable safety strategies that are tailored to the unique challenges of the profession.

Angela Gaines is a seasoned Police Community Relations Specialist with over 18 years of dedicated service at the Chula Vista Police Department. In her role within the Community Relations Unit, Angela has been instrumental in fostering strong ties between law enforcement and the community, promoting trust, and enhancing public safety. With a background in psychology from San Diego State University, she brings a deep understanding of human behavior to her work, enabling her to effectively address community concerns and develop outreach programs. Angela is also a published author, further demonstrating her commitment to communication and education within her field.

PSAR's mission is to empower real estate professionals.

Since 1928, the Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® has played a significant role in shaping the history, growth & development of the Real Estate industry in San Diego County.