Q. Can you put up your sign with a “Coming Soon” sticker when you’ve had a listing agreement signed, but the listing isn’t really in effect yet?
A. The short answer is “no”, you cannot use a “Coming Soon” sticker on an MLS® sign. RAHB’s MLS® Rules and Regulations specifically prohibit placing a sign of any sort on a property until the commencement date of the listing:
Article 10
10.05 No marketing of any property, including placing a sign on any property, is permitted until the commencement date of the Listing Agreement pertaining to such property.
If you can’t place a sign, you cannot place a “coming soon” sticker – it’s still an advertisement of a property which hasn’t actually come into effect yet.
Q. Are there any circumstances under which you could use a “Coming Soon” sign or sticker?
A. RECO has issued guidelines about what is required if you use a “Coming Soon” sticker or sign, but notes that if your association has a rules against using “Coming Soon” you have to abide by those rules.
You should note, however, that RAHB’s MLS® rules apply to MLS® listings. They do not apply to exclusive listings. If you have an exclusive listing that is “coming soon” and your sign meets all of RECO’s requirements, then you may use “Coming Soon”.
If you have any questions about the rules surrounding “Coming Soon” signs or stickers, please contact Angela at 905.529.8101 or angelam@rahb.ca.