The provincially harmonized rules were reviewed by all 10 Alberta boards and associations to support consistent practice across the province. 

Suggestions for updates or additions were brought forward by representatives from each board, and the changes below reflect those agreed upon by all 10 boards.

The harmonized rules are included in Parts II and III of the CREB^® Rules and will be updated on April 2, 2026. Enforcement of the new rules begin July 1, 2026.

Click here for a detailed comparison of the rules that will come into effect on April 2, 2026. A summary of the amendments is outlined below.

Part II 4.01 – Solicitation of potential clients

Rewritten to clarify the meaning of the rule and its exception. The rule itself is not changing. 

Part II 10.04 – Time sensitive references on signage

Updated to include “Coming Soon” signage.  A clear timeframe has been provided to advise members that “Coming Soon” signage must be removed once a property is listed on the board’s MLS^® System. 

Part II 11.04 – Presentation of multiple offers that include offer(s) by seller’s representative

Clarification has been made regarding the presenting of multiple offers, including offer(s) by the seller’s representative, to confirm that any instructions provided by the seller must be in writing

Part III 2.04(e) – Photographs and images

Updated to align with intellectual property (IP) laws in Canada. The rule now requires members to ensure they have the legal right to use and post photos on the MLS^® System. This may include taking the photos themselves, obtaining written ownership transfer from the IP holder, or obtaining a written agreement for use that permits perpetual use within the MLS^® System, as set out by the board.

It is common practice for members to hire a professional photographer to take photographs of a property for the MLS^® System. In most cases, the photographer retains intellectual property rights unless they are transferred in writing. Without a written ownership transfer, members may be exposed to liability when using, maintaining or distributing those photographs in the database, including sharing them with third-party platforms such as REALTOR.ca.

Part III 2.07(b) – Accuracy and completeness of information

This amendment prohibits the removal of listing data and information from an MLS® listing prior to reporting an off‑market status, such as sold or expired. A key value of the MLS^® System lies in the preservation of historical information, which supports members in establishing value for future clients and provides the comprehensive data required to conduct business effectively.

Removing data after the benefits of the MLS^® System have been realized by the seller undermines its value for all members and may impact the REALTOR^® brand.

For questions about the amendments and how they affect your practice, contact our Member Practice team at advice@creb.ca.