Dear members,

Beginning on January 1, 2023, the REALTOR® Cooperation Policy will require that REALTORS® place their listing(s) on their Board’s Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) System for cooperation with other REALTORS® within three (3) days of public marketing. This policy reinforces cooperation among REALTORS®, which will better serve the needs of consumers, advance the MLS® and REALTOR® trademarks and increase the level of professionalism. Policy details and answers to commonly asked questions may be found in the FAQs.

Virtually every homeowner in Canada has used an MLS® System. These systems are REALTOR® to REALTOR® marketplaces for all REALTORS® who list properties on behalf of sellers and who represent buyers. When total listings placed on an MLS® System increase, this in turn creates value for REALTORS® and their clients. A marketplace with more listings attracts more buyers, and a marketplace with more buyers attracts more sellers. In short, the interests of both REALTORS® and Canadian consumers are better served. Members are invited to further explore these benefits in a white paper commissioned by CREA.

In early 2021, the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) established a REALTOR® Cooperation Working Group comprised of CREA staff and Executive Officers from various Boards across the country. The group was tasked with reviewing issues surrounding cooperation in the industry and creating effective solutions.

Through consultation with industry stakeholders throughout Canada, the REALTOR® Cooperation Working Group presented its recommendation to CREA’s Board of Directors that a policy be adopted as one of the solutions to enhance cooperation in the industry. The REALTOR® Cooperation Policy was approved by CREA’s Board of Directors.

More information, including Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) may be found by following these links:

Complete Policy and FAQs

REALTOR® Cooperation Policy

MLS® System White Paper

Rock Lefebvre

Chief Operating Officer