On Monday the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) voted on changing the organization’s rules regarding enhanced access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) system. The MLS is currently responsible in making sales for approximately 90 per cent of homes listed in Canada.
The rules give customers a way to decide if they want to use a realtor, how much to use a realtor and actually give the consumer the ability to manage certain parts or transactions of the sale without the use of a realtor. The Competition Bureau filed a complaint with the Competition Tribunal because they believe that it is anti-competitive behaviour.
However, “CREA is pleased that the amendments have passed,” said Georges Pahud, the new president of CREA.
CREA has stated, “These amendments ensure the continued integrity of MLS systems and the accuracy and quality of information on board MLS systems that Canadians have come to trust.”
They will be filing a defence this Thursday.