During the busy holiday season, sellers may find it challenging to prepare their property for showings. Here are some quick tips to help manage expectations and ensure compliance with MLS^® System rules. 

Expectations

Remind clients that properties listed on the MLS^® System must follow the harmonized showing rule, even during the holidays:

i. Active properties listed on the Board’s MLS^® System shall be available for showings within 24 hours of a request being made to view it, with the following exceptions: 

ii. If the property is occupied by a tenant as defined in the Residential Tenancies Act, that property will be available for showing as prescribed by the Residential Tenancies Act. If the property is a judicially ordered sale, the property will be available for showing as prescribed by the judicial order. 

iii. Commercial properties, which are not subject to Rule 2.03(b). 

Showing preferences

Include the seller’s preferred showing times in the Private Remarks to help them prepare. When representing a buyer over the holiday season, try to book showings within those preferred times whenever possible. If you need to cancel a showing, give the listing agent as much notice as you can.

Temporary withdrawal

If your client can’t accommodate showings within 24 hours of a request or as required under the Residential Tenancies Act, offer the option of a temporary withdrawal. Listings can be temporarily withdrawn for up to 10 calendar days with a signed Temporary Withdrawal Form.

Reactivate when ready

When the property is ready to accommodate showings within the 24-hour request window, the listing can be reactivated in either of the following ways:

1. Through your broker - Brokers can handle both temporary withdrawals and reactivations.

2. Through CREB^® Member Support - Simply email the Temporary Withdrawal Form to support@creb.ca for assistance.

For any questions about compliance, contact CREB^® Member Practice at compliance@creb.ca.