This Spring, NAR announced expanded multiple listing options for sellers. For some MLSs across the country, this was new; for us, these options have always been available.
Hereâs a quick breakdown of the multiple listing options that are available in the MLS. đ
â Active Listings: This option remains the most visible because it allows public marketing, showings, signage, and syndication â the whole package.
â Coming Soon: This option gives sellers time to prep while generating buzz.
â Brokerage Exclusive: Allows for listings within your brokerage. Communication outside the brokerage must be one-to-one to avoid triggering the Clear Cooperation requirement. A brokerage exclusive form must be filed with the MLS at[email protected]. By December, you will be able to submit the form directly through Flex; however, this feature is currently under development.
â Exclude from Internet: This option has been available in our MLS for many years. Choosing this option means the listing is visible to MLS subscribers but is not syndicated to public websites.
â VOW (Virtual Office Website): This option requires the consumer to register on the brokerage website to view the listing.
â Other important reminders
A signed listing agreement or disclosure is required for every option, regardless of whether you use our form. MLS rules are local and unique to each MLS. That requires each MLS to enforce its policies. Itâs the responsibility of the agent to explain these options clearly to their clients. This information has been vetted and approved by our MLS Board of Directors
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: What is the difference between âExclude from Internetâ and âDelayed Marketing?â
A: We have offered âExclude from Internetâ for years, and NAR refers to this option as Delayed Marketing. The only difference is the addition of a disclosure if Exclude from Internet is selected. The disclosure is integrated into the most recent MLS listing contract.
Q: What if I /we donât use the Columbus & Central Ohio Regional MLS Listing Contract?
A: A disclosure is still required. A listing agreement may be required to be submitted to the MLS.
Q: What is the difference between âExclude from Internetâ and âBrokerage Exclusive?â
A: âExclude from the Internetâ is listed in the MLS, and all subscribers/brokerages can see the listing. A Brokerage Exclusive is communicated only within the listing brokerage. A Brokerage Exclusive cannot be publicly marketed, but one-to-one communication is allowed.
Q: Do âDays on Marketâ accumulate during âExclude from Internet?â
A: Yes, because even though âExclude from Internetâ was selected, the listing is still technically active, but it is not being syndicated. Days on market do accumulate.
Q: What does it mean that âBrokerage Exclusives must be filed with the MLS?â
A: All Brokerage Exclusive listings must be submitted to MLS via email to[email protected]. Soon, agents will be able to file directly through FlexMLS.
Q: Does this mean every listing must be filed with the MLS?
A: Yes, listings can be filed and submitted in one of three ways:
Through the Brokerage Exclusive Waiver Form submitted to[email protected]The most recent MLS Listing Agreement containing brokerage exclusive language submitted to[email protected]Or by submitting the listing in the FlexMLS platform (soon to be available)
Q: When will I be able to âfile the brokerage exclusiveâ directly into Flex?
A: This feature is currently in development by our vendor, FBS Flex, with an anticipated Q4 2025 rollout.
Q: What if my seller doesnât want their listing on the internet at all? Must I still submit it to the MLS?
A: Yes, digital (emailed PDF) or hard copies (paper) are acceptable. If sent directly to MLS, staff will NOT upload listings to FlexFBS. This option would ensure the brokerage exclusive is not visible to anyone within the office but it may still be marketed one-to-one.
Q:Can the listing status change during the life of the listing? Examples: Active to Exclude from Internet. Brokerage exclusive to active, Exclude from Internet to Active.
A: Yes, nothing has changed
Q: What, if any documentation is required if my seller decides to change statues throughout the listing?
A: Nothing has changed.
