Agents Flying Fast & Loose?

Follow The Rules or Pay Big Time!

The Northwest Multiple Listing Service otherwise known as the NWMLS occasionally needs to enforce their rules through disciplinary action. Good for them! Member Brokers and subscriber agents are expected to follow not only the letter of The Law and the Code of Ethics (for Realtors), they're expected to follow the rules and regulations of the NWMLS. Every now and then agents go willy nilly with the rules. Some get a slap on the hand, and some, very stiff fines.

Agent advertised another member’s listing in a real estate guide without written permission. Penalty: $3,000 fine with $2,000 suspended on the condition that the member not be found guilty of any further Rules violations within 12 months. Agent must take a NWMLS Rules and Regulations course.

Agent took the key to the house from the keybox, gave it to the electrician, and allowed the electrician to remain on the property unattended. Penalty: $5,000 fine.

Agent modified the listing price on several occasions by $1.00 or $2.00 to make it appear on the hotsheet. The property was listed at the same price after the changes as it was before. Penalty: $3,000 fine.

Agent lent his key to his unlicensed assistant who showed the property without an appointment while the agent remained outside. Agent failed to leave a business card after the showing. Penalty: $5,000 fine.

Agent failed to remove the keybox in a timely manner, failed to update the status of the property, and failed to upload a primary photo in a timely manner. Penalty: $1,500 fine.

Agent’s key was used by her friend, an unlicensed individual, to show listings. Penalty: $5,000 fine.