Having the seller’s name on the MLS^® listing ensures a buyer’s agent has the necessary information to prepare an offer. When a seller’s name is left blank, it can create challenges completing the purchase contract.

Seller instructions

If the seller does not want their name(s) included on the MLS^® listing, the agent must obtain this request in writing (for example, by using the applicable CREB^® form) and add it to the broker file.

CREB^® Rule Part II, 2.03(a) requires the seller's full legal name(s) to be included on the MLS^® listing unless the seller instructs otherwise. This decision rests with the seller, not the agent.

Why is this information necessary?

Including the seller's name on an MLS^® listing is important for several reasons:

• Members rely on this information to prepare an offer. While a buyer's representative should be doing their due diligence and pull title before submitting an offer, the Alberta Land Titles system (SPIN II or ARLO) may be unavailable at times due to maintenance.

• Due to lengthy processing times at the Land Titles Office, the title obtained by a buyer's agent may not reflect the current seller's name. An accurate name on the MLS^® listing provides critical information needed to draft an offer.

• When using WEBForms^®, the name entered on the MLS^® listing auto-populates the offer to purchase. If the listing states "see title" or "private," the information must be manually corrected. Including the seller's name upfront helps avoid an unnecessary and preventable step for busy members. 

Options when the seller instructs not to disclose their name

1. "Undisclosed" 

This is the appropriate entry in the Owner Name field. Using "N/A" is misleading and should be avoided.

2. "See title" 

This may be used in the Owner Name field if the seller has provided written instruction not to disclose their name and the title, reflecting their name, is included in the supplements.

Pro Practice Tip listing supplements. A title is only accurate at the time it is pulled, and new registrations – such as mortgages or liens – may be added afterward.^®: Buyer's agents should always obtain a new title before writing an offer, even if a title is included in the MLS Reviewing the title registrations is also important to properly advise clients about property limitations, such as architectural controls or other restrictions that could affect their plans. For example, they might not be able to repaint the red brick like they want.