• All Members hereby agree to abide by these Rules (defined below) as such Rules apply to a Member’s use of the BAREIS Multiple Listing Service system.
• NOTICE

• These MLS Rules (these “Rules”) of the Bay Area Real Estate Information Services, Inc., a California nonprofit mutual benefit corporation (“BAREIS”), are solely for the use and benefit of BAREIS and the Members of BAREIS and licensees thereof with BAREIS’ consent. These Rules govern only the relationship among the Members and BAREIS regarding the BAREIS MLS® multiple listing service operated and federally copyrighted by BAREIS (the “MLS”) and used by its Members and certain licensors or licensees. These Rules set forth, among other things, operating requirements necessary for the creation and maintenance of BAREIS’ data. Except as provided in Rule 17.3, nothing in these Rules is intended to confer any rights, benefits, or remedies on any Persons other than BAREIS itself and the Members of BAREIS, its licensees, and their respective successors and permitted assigns. These Rules do not, are not intended to, and shall not be deemed to establish professional standards or models for the conduct of the real estate brokerage business with the public by the Members of BAREIS or others. By becoming and remaining a Participant, Subscriber, or Administrative User, each Participant, Subscriber, or Administrative User hereby agrees to abide by and be subject to these Rules in every respect, the enforcement of which is at the sole discretion of the BAREIS Board of Directors (the “Board”) or an authorized committee thereof. (Rev. 08/12/2024)

• 1. AUTHORITY

• BAREIS shall maintain for the use of its Members a real estate information service that shall be subject to the Amended and Restated Bylaws of Bay Area Real Estate Information Services, Inc. (the “Bylaws”), as further amended from time to time, and these Rules as may also be amended from time to time by the Board. (Rev. 08/12/2024)

• 2. PURPOSE

• BAREIS maintains a Multiple Listing Service (“MLS” or “the MLS”), the MLS Data of which has been copyrighted to the extent permitted by the copyright laws of the United States and is entitled to protection thereunder, that is a means by which: (a) Cooperation between Participants is facilitated ; (b) information relating to sale, lease, or exchange of real property is accumulated and disseminated to enable authorized Participants to prepare appraisals and other valuations of real property; (c) Participants engaging in real estate appraisal contribute to common databases; and (d) the orderly correlation and dissemination of listing information among the Participants is facilitated so that they may better serve their Clients and customers. It shall not be a condition of participation or membership in BAREIS that a Participant or Subscriber offer or accept compensation to Buyer Brokers or other Buyer representatives. BAREIS does not disclose or regulate commissions, commission splits, or the business models of its Members, and the MLS shall not be used, directly or indirectly, to establish or regulate commissions, commission splits or business models of Participants or Subscribers. Participants and Subscribers shall use the MLS solely for the purpose of selling, listing, leasing, marketing, valuing, and appraising real estate, strictly as permitted by the Bylaws or these Rules. Except as expressly provided in the Bylaws and these Rules, Participants, and Subscribers shall not copy, create derivative works of, distribute, perform, or display the MLS or any part of it. BAREIS will not create, facilitate or support any non-MLS mechanism (including by providing listing information to an internet aggregator’s website for such purpose) for Listing Brokers or Sellers to make offers of compensation to Buyer Brokers or other Buyer representatives; however, (i) BAREIS may, at its discretion, provide data or data feeds to a Participant or third party unless BAREIS knows those data or data feeds are being used directly or indirectly thereby to establish or maintain a platform for offers of compensation from multiple Brokers; and (ii) BAREIS may provide data or data feeds to a Participant that displays both (I) data or data feeds from BAREIS and (II) offers of compensation to Buyer Brokers or other Buyer representatives but only on listings from such Participant’s own brokerage. (Rev. 09/30/2024)

• 3. MLS SERVICES

• BAREIS makes no warranties that the MLS will be available at all times. BAREIS may, but is not required to, modify the MLS, including removing information and making additional information available and adding and removing system functions. Certain products and services made available in conjunction with the MLS may be subject to other agreements and may require payment of additional fees.

• 4.1 Authority to Place Listings in the MLS Data. By filing a listing with BAREIS: (i) the Listing Broker represents that he, she, or it has been authorized by the Seller to list the subject real property in the MLS; and (ii) the Listing Broker thereby grants to BAREIS an irrevocable, perpetual, royalty-free license (with right to sublicense) to use, copy and publish such listing and information relating to the listing, including all Media therein (but subject to Rule 4.4), in the MLS Data, and to report information and other data about the sale, price, and terms of the listing, as well as in other information sources (the “Listing License”). In addition, the Listing Broker shall and shall cause any Subscriber or Administrative User who has prepared or submitted a listing on the Listing Broker’s behalf or as the Listing Broker’s agent to, irrevocably and unconditionally assign any copyright in the selection, coordination, and arrangement created or conceived by such Person in connection with such listing to BAREIS.

• 4.2 Copyrights; Ownership of the MLS Data. The license granted pursuant to Section 4.1 includes the exclusive right (i) to register the MLS Data, including such listing and information and all Media therein, with the United States Copyright Office, to the extent that it may be registered under the copyright laws of the United States; (ii) to assign or license such MLS Data, including such listing and information and all Media therein (but subject to Rule 4.4) and such copyrights to others, and (iii) to protect and defend such MLS Data and the copyrighted listing information and Media against any infringement thereof. BAREIS is the exclusive owner of the MLS Data compilation and each original aspect of the MLS Data that is or has been created, conceived, or crafted by BAREIS as well as the selection, coordination, and arrangement of the MLS Data that has been assigned to BAREIS by the Listing Broker (or such Listing Broker’s Administrative User) as referred to in Rule 4.1. All right, title, and interest in such MLS Data and copyrights registered by BAREIS shall at all times be owned by and remain vested exclusively in BAREIS and its assignees and licensees.

• 4.3 License to Access the MLS Data. Through maintaining active membership in BAREIS, each Member is granted a non-exclusive, non-transferable license to access the MLS Data, without the right to sublicense. The license granted to an active Member provides only the right to use the MLS Data in accordance with these Rules and the Bylaws. In no event shall a Member disassemble, reassemble, decompile, recompile, reverse engineer, or in any other manner seek to modify, misappropriate, misuse, or translate any software (whether source code or object code) incorporated in the MLS Data, or that is used to manage, manipulate or display the MLS Data or any aspect thereof, nor attempt to do any of the foregoing, nor permit or assist any other Person to undertake or engage in any such activities.

• 4.4 Intellectual Property Rights. Except as provided by Rule 14.4, Members shall not use Media from another listing without the prior written permission of the previous Listing Broker or other party that has the legal right to reproduce and display the Media.

1. 1. Members shall not remove or alter any metadata, copyright, or electronic management information (as defined in § 17 USC 1201(c)) or other markings indicating another Person’s intellectual property rights in any such Media.
   2. By submitting Media to the MLS, the Listing Broker represents and warrants that he or she either owns the right to reproduce, display, and include such Media in the MLS copyrighted compilation per Section 2.1(d) of the Bylaws, or has procured such rights from the appropriate party and that such Listing Broker has the authority to grant and hereby does grant to BAREIS the irrevocable right and license (i) to reproduce, display, and include such Media in the MLS copyrighted compilation and (ii) to sublicense and grant the right to reproduce and display the Media to BAREIS’ Participants, Subscribers and Members and to other Persons as required or permitted by the Bylaws or these Rules. To the extent that the Listing Broker does not possess the rights to permit the foregoing assignment, the Listing Broker hereby grants to BAREIS a non-exclusive, perpetual, worldwide, transferable, royalty-free license to reproduce, prepare derivative works of, distribute, display, perform and license (including sublicenses through multiple tiers) the Listing Broker, Participant or Subscriber contribution.

• 5.1 Member Requirements. All BAREIS Members (as defined in the Bylaws) shall:
  • Sign a written agreement to abide by the Bylaws and these Rules in force at that time, and as amended from time to time. Members are responsible for adhering to these Rules as a condition of their membership, and are responsible for being aware of all current Rules;
  • Complete any orientation program required by BAREIS within 60 Days after access to the MLS Data has been provided;
  • Pay all applicable fees;
  • Provide full and current contact information, including a valid email address, to BAREIS, and agree to accept all communications by electronic means from BAREIS; and
  • Conduct themselves in a professional manner, according to the policy of the Board that expects and requires professional behavior in dealings with the staff of BAREIS, the BAREIS service centers, and reciprocal MLSs. Abusive, threatening, or harassing behavior towards administrators or employees is not acceptable.

• 5.2 Participant. A “Participant” is any Member that continues to meet all of the requirements of either a Broker Participant or an Appraiser Participant as defined below:
  • 5.2.1 Broker Participant. A “Broker Participant” is a Person who holds a valid California Department of Real Estate broker license (a “Real Estate Broker” or “Broker”) and is either a sole proprietor or is a principal, partner, corporate officer, or branch manager acting on behalf of a business entity and is authorized to offer and accept compensation in the capacity of a Real Estate Broker.
  • 5.2.2 Appraiser Participant. An “Appraiser Participant” is a Person who is licensed as a real estate appraiser by the California Bureau of Real Estate Appraisers or certified by the California State Board of Equalization and who is either a sole proprietor or is a principal, partner, corporate officer, or branch manager acting on behalf of a business entity for or through which his or her services are provided.

• 5.3 Subscriber. A “Subscriber” is a Person who meets the requirements of either a Real Estate Subscriber or Appraiser Subscriber as defined below:
  • 5.3.1 Real Estate Subscriber. A “Real Estate Subscriber” is a California Department of Real Estate Licensee or broker who is employed by or affiliated as an independent contractor with a Broker Participant.
  • 5.3.2 Appraiser Subscriber. An “Appraiser Subscriber” is a Person who is licensed as a real estate appraiser by the California Bureau of Real Estate Appraisers or certified by the California State Board of Equalization and who is acting for an Appraiser Participant or a Broker Participant.

• 5.4 Administrative User. An “Administrative User” is an individual under the direct supervision of a Participant or Subscriber who performs only administrative and clerical tasks that do not require a real estate license or an appraiser’s license or certificate. Administrative Users are assigned unique and individual administrative access to the MLS Data. Each Participant shall provide BAREIS with a list of all Administrative Users employed by such Participant and his or her Subscribers and shall notify BAREIS of any changes, additions, or deletions from the list within three Days. Administrative Users without an active real estate license or appraiser’s license or certificate are subject to a special dues rate established by the Board. Administrative Users with an active real estate license or appraiser’s license or certificate are billed at the Subscriber rate. Administrative Users shall not provide any MLS Data to Persons other than the Participant or the Subscriber under whom the Administrative User is registered.

• 5.5 Limitations on Transfer of Membership. As authorized by the Board, membership in BAREIS is on an individual basis and shall not be transferred or sold to any other individual, corporation, or business entity. Any reimbursement of the participation fee is a matter to be negotiated by those transferring a business or determined as a matter of contract within the business entity. However, provided the first Participant consents, BAREIS shall allow a business entity to designate a different Person within the business entity as a Participant without requiring the payment of an additional participation fee. BAREIS may charge an administrative fee for reassigning Participants within a business entity.

• 6.1 Service Fees and Charges. The Board shall set, and may amend from time to time, the following fees and charges, as listed in Exhibit A-1:

6.1.1 Initial Application Fee. An applicant for Participant or Subscriber shall pay an initial application fee.

6.1.2 User Fee. Each Participant and Subscriber shall pay a user fee.

6.1.3 Administrative Users. The Participant or Subscriber shall pay the applicable fees for access for his or her Administrative Users.

6.1.4 Book Subscription Fees. BAREIS does not currently publish a listing book.

6.1.5 Other Fees. Other fees that are reasonably related to the operation of the MLS may be adopted, including services requested by Members for BAREIS staff to input or modify listings and Media, co-op key programming, reinstatement of service, returned check or failed credit card charges and arbitration filing fees.

6.1.6 Amendment of Fees. BAREIS may amend the schedule of fees at any time at its sole discretion. BAREIS shall provide written notice to its Members at least 30 days in advance of the effective date of any fee increase. If a Member objects to the increase, the Member may terminate its membership in BAREIS by written notice to BAREIS at any time before the effective date of the increase.

• 6.2 Suspension of BAREIS Membership and MLS Privileges for Failure to Pay Service Fees, Fines, or Charges.
  Following 15 Days’ written notice of the delinquency, a Member’s BAREIS membership and MLS Privileges shall be suspended, for failure to pay any amounts due within 30 Days following the date due, until the amounts due are paid in full, including a delinquency fee. Failure to pay service or delinquency fees, fines, or charges for one year shall result in Termination of membership, and reinstatement of BAREIS membership and MLS Privileges shall require application as a new Member. When any Member is suspended or terminated, including by reason of Expulsion or resignation, the Member shall immediately return all materials relating to BAREIS, including all forms and other supplies, within 48 hours after such Suspension or Termination. BAREIS need not refund or prorate fees in the event of Suspension or Termination of a Member’s BAREIS membership unless these Rules or the Bylaws provide otherwise. Initiation fees, if any, are not refundable.

• 6.3 Denied Application. In the event an application as a Participant on the MLS is rejected by BAREIS, the applicant shall be promptly notified in writing of the reason for the rejection and shall have the right to respond in writing to the Board, or to request a hearing in accordance with the California Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual. In the event a Subscriber application is rejected, only the Subscriber’s Participant shall have the right to respond in writing to the Board, or to request a hearing.

• 7.1 Notice. Whenever notice of any matter is required to be given to BAREIS, it shall be given in writing, within the time specified, by mail, email, or facsimile.

• 7.2 Notification of California Department of Real Estate ("DRE") or California Bureau of Real Estate Appraisers ("BREA") Action. Members against whom final action has been taken by the DRE or the BREA shall notify BAREIS within 24 hours of such action, including any final decisions restricting, suspending, or revoking the real estate license or appraiser’s license or certificate of the Member, or of the business entity under which such Member acts. Participants shall notify BAREIS within 24 hours of such action by DRE or BREA with respect to any Real Estate Licensee or Appraiser affiliated with the Participant or the Participant’s business entity, or any Real Estate Licensee or Appraiser who was affiliated with the Participant or the Participant’s business entity at the time of the underlying act.

• 7.3 Supervision of Licensees. The Participant is responsible for ensuring that any non-Member Real Estate Licensee or real estate appraiser in any way affiliated with such Participant shall not access the MLS Data. 

• In addition to the notification requirements of Rule 7.2, a Participant shall not allow any Subscriber who is engaged in business under the Participant’s license and whose license or certificate has been revoked, suspended, or restricted by either the DRE or the BREA, to use the MLS Data in any manner while the DRE or the BREA discipline is in effect, except that the Subscriber may be able to use the MLS Data under a restricted license, provided such use is consistent with and does not violate such licensing restrictions.

• 7.4 Failure to Prevent Unauthorized Use of the MLS Data. In the event a Real Estate Licensee, Broker, administrative assistant, or real estate appraiser employed by or affiliated with a Participant is found to be using the MLS Data in violation of these Rules, such Participant shall be subject to fees dating back to the date of the employment or affiliation of the Real Estate Licensee, Broker, administrative assistant or real estate appraiser with the Participant’s business entity. Listings associated with non-members who are affiliated with a Broker Participant shall not be included in the MLS Data, and references to a non-member Real Estate Licensee, Broker, administrative assistant, or real estate appraiser shall not be included anywhere in the MLS Data. The Participant also may be subject to any other sanctions that can be imposed for violation of these Rules and ultimately lose access to the MLS Data. 

• 7.5 Violations of the Law. If a Member commits a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude or violates any real estate law, including the rules and regulations of the California Department of Real Estate or the laws relating to real estate appraisers, the Member shall be in violation of this Rule 7.5. However, a Member shall not be found to have violated this Rule 7.5 unless the Member: (a) has been convicted, adjudged, or otherwise recorded as guilty by a final judgment of any court of competent jurisdiction of a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude, or (b) it is determined by any court of competent jurisdiction or an official of the State of California authorized to make the determination that the Member violated a provision of California laws governing real estate, or the regulations of the California Real Estate Commissioner.

• 7.6 Board-Initiated Hearing for Inappropriate Behavior toward Staff or Board. Upon receiving a complaint of abusive, threatening, or harassing behavior as described in Section 5.1(e), the Board, or a committee of the Board, shall cause the accusation to be investigated and conduct a hearing if necessary. The Board may levy a fine against an offending Member and may suspend or expel the Member from BAREIS membership and MLS Privileges.

• 8.1 State and Regional Reciprocal Agreements. The Board may approve and enter into reciprocal state or regional agreements with other MLS organizations to allow their members to place a listing with BAREIS or access to BAREIS in exchange for their providing similar service to Members of BAREIS on such terms and conditions as the Board may approve. In the event agreements are entered into, the participants and subscribers of the other MLS organizations shall be bound by these Rules, and BAREIS Members shall be bound by the rules and regulations of the reciprocating MLS database.

• 8.2 Special Reciprocal Agreements. BAREIS has entered into a regional cross-pollination agreement (as amended from time to time, the “Cross Pollination Agreement”) with MetroList®, The San Francisco Association of REALTORS® MLS, Bridge MLS, Contra Costa Association of REALTORS®, Bay East Association of REALTORS®, and MLSListings® in which the MLS listing data of each such organization is displayed in the MLS system of all the organizations. By submitting a listing in the MLS Data, BAREIS members agree to Cooperate with members of such organizations participating in the Cross Pollination Agreement for the purpose of selling or listing the listed property. By entering a listing into MetroList®, Members agree to abide by and are bound by the respective rules and regulations of MetroList®. (Rev. 08/12/2024)

• 9.1 Listings Subject to Rules. MLS listings may be filed with BAREIS only by Broker Participants. Any listing filed with BAREIS by a Broker Participant is subject to these Rules. When making a listing in the MLS, the Listing Broker warrants that the information submitted complies with these Rules in all respects, including with regard to (i) required data fields; (ii) format of submission; (iii) permitted and required listing types; and (iv) procedures for listing. The Listing Broker warrants that the listing does not infringe or violate any patents, copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets, or other proprietary rights of any third party and that there is no claim, litigation, or proceeding pending or threatened with respect to the listing.

• 9.2 Compliance with California and Federal Law. BAREIS shall accept any listing that it is required to accept under California or federal law.

• 9.3 Types and Classifications of Listings. BAREIS shall accept exclusive right-to-sell, seller reserved, open, and probate listings as defined in the California Business and Professions Code Sections 10018.14 through 10018.17 and Probate Code Section 10150 inclusive that satisfy the requirements of these MLS Rules, but in no event shall a listing directly or indirectly include any information regarding compensation payable directly or indirectly to any Buyer Broker. It shall be the responsibility of the Listing Broker to classify each listing submitted. BAREIS shall not have an affirmative responsibility to verify such legal classifications. However, BAREIS shall have the right to make a determination as to the validity of the classification. Refusal to reclassify the listing shall be considered a violation of the Rules. (Rev. 08/12/2024)

• • 9.3.1 Auction Listings. Auctions shall be for the sale of real property. Auctions for the sale of an option or right to purchase are not permitted on the MLS. Auction Listings are subject to the same rules as other listings except as provided by this Rule 9.3.1.

1. 1. 1. Auction listings entered into the MLS compilation shall be identified by selecting “Yes” in the “Auction Yes/No” field. Auction listings shall have a listing price of either “0” or the minimum bid, depending on the type of auction. The listing shall be clearly labeled as an Auction Listing in the first sentence of the property description/public remarks field as well as in the first sentence of the Private Remarks field and shall specify that the Listing Price is a minimum bid. Auction documents shall be attached to the listing. The Auction Documents shall not include any compensation to be paid to the Broker representing a successful bidder; however, the attached auction documents shall include: (Rev. 08/12/2024)
         
         1. The date, time, and place of the auction;
         2. Whether the auction is being conducted with or without the Seller’s right of reservation;
         3. The procedures by which Members shall register their representation of a Client potentially bidding at the auction;
         4. The time or manner in which potential bidders may inspect the listed property;
         5. Any other information that is material to rules or procedures by which the auction shall be conducted;
         6. The amount of the Buyer’s premium, if any. (Rev. 09/30/2024)
      2. The expiration date of the listing shall be the date of the auction. If reserve is not met at the auction and property is again listed as an auction on the MLS to accept offers/bids, the posted list price shall be the highest bid received at auction for the period during which the “auction is continued.”
      3. If the Seller will accept a purchase offer prior to the scheduled auction, the Auction Listing shall also specify a List Price. The Listing Broker shall further indicate clearly and conspicuously in the Private Remarks or in attached documents whether: (Rev. 08/12/2024)
         
         1. The property is available for showing;
         2. Purchase offers may be submitted for acceptance prior to the scheduled auction; and
         3. Any time limitations applicable to the submission or consideration of such offers prior to the auction.
      4. If a purchase offer is accepted on or before the date of the scheduled auction, the auction of the property shall be canceled, and the transaction reported in the MLS pursuant to Rule 9.19.4.
2. 9.4 Types of Properties. BAREIS shall accept listings for the following types of property:
   1. 1. 1. Residential
         2. Residential Lease
         3. Residential Income
         4. Mobile in Park/Floating Home
         5. Land
         6. Business Opportunity
         7. Commercial
         8. Commercial Lease

• 9.5 Separate and Duplicate Listings. All properties which are to be sold or which may be sold separately shall be listed separately, except as otherwise approved by BAREIS. Duplicate Listings shall be clearly labeled as a Duplicate Listing in the Private Remarks fields and include reference to the other MLS listing number and property category. MLS will allow Duplicate Listings if the property meets at least one of the following criteria:

• • 9.5.1 For Approval in Two Property Categories:
    • • Parcels with mixed-use zoning are being sold together; or
      • As residential and commercial or residential and land if subdivision is pre-approved. Proof of pre-approval from the municipality shall be provided if requested by BAREIS; or
      • As residential and land if lot where improvement plans are approved, and the list price includes all completed improvements; or
      • As residential and residential income if the property has a single-family home and additional dwellings and would be properly classified as either property type; or
      • As residential and land if the property has a dwelling on it and is being marketed for the land value.
  • 9.5.2 For Approval in Multiple Counties or Areas:
    • • The property’s footprint overlaps two counties; or
      • The principal access road to the property is in a different county; or
      • The mailing address of the property is different from the property’s location.
  • 9.5.3 For Approval Within the Same Property Type:
    • • Properties adjacent to each other that are being offered at one price individually and at another price if offered together as a combined sale; or
      • Properties being listed for sale at one price and for sale as an approved tenancy in common at another price.

1. 9.6 Listing Agreement and Seller’s Permission. Prior to filing a listing with BAREIS, the Listing Broker shall possess a written, valid listing agreement. Listing agreements utilized by Listing Brokers shall contain all of the following:
   1. The agreement shall establish and define the agency relationship and grant the Listing Broker authority to act as an agent of the Seller;
   2. The agreement shall grant the Listing Broker authority to enter the listing into the MLS Data;
   3. The agreement shall include instructions to post or not post the listing on Internet sites, and, if permitted to post the listing to the Internet, instruction to disclose or not disclose the address of the property on Internet sites; and
   4. The agreement shall grant the Listing Broker authority to post-sales information in the MLS Data upon the sale of the property.

• • 9.6.1 Obligation to Explain Rules to Clients. A Seller’s or Buyer’s request of a Member not to report a sale or to violate any other Rule does not relieve the Member from his, her, or its obligations under these Rules. It is the responsibility of the Listing Broker to explain these Rules to the Seller.

1. 9.7 Intentionally Left Blank (Rev. 08/12/2024)

1. 9.8 Intentionally Left Blank (Rev. 08/12/2024)

1. 9.9 Rejection or Removal of Listings and Listing Content. BAREIS is authorized to reject or remove any listing from the MLS compilation where the Member has refused or failed to comply with any BAREIS Rule or membership duty. Upon the rejection by BAREIS of any listing in the MLS Data, the Listing Broker shall so advise his or her Client(s). Prior to the removal of any listing from the MLS Data by BAREIS, the Listing Broker shall be advised of the intended removal so the Listing Broker can advise his or her Client(s). BAREIS retains the right, but not the obligation or duty, to remove listing content that it considers to be obscene, obsolete, in violation of any law or these Rules, or otherwise objectionable. Listing Brokers remain solely responsible or liable for the content that they provide. In no case will any monitoring, rejection, or removal of a Member’s content by BAREIS make BAREIS responsible or liable for such content.

1. 9.10 Written Documentation. BAREIS shall have the right at any time and from time to time to request Documentation, including full, true, and complete copies of authorizations, including listing agreements, Buyer representation agreements, purchase agreements, and related authorizations. Members shall provide the requested documentation within 1 Day following the subject request by the BAREIS staff. (Rev. 08/12/2024)

1. 9.11 Accuracy of Information. By filing a listing with BAREIS, the Listing Broker shall be responsible for the truth of all representations and statements of which the Listing Broker had knowledge or should have had knowledge, as required by California Civil Code § 1088. The Listing Broker shall immediately review the listing, verify its correctness, and correct any errors. BAREIS shall not be required to and assumes no responsibility to, review, edit, or exercise editorial control over any listing. The foregoing notwithstanding, BAREIS may take any steps necessary in its sole discretion, including deleting a listing or portions thereof, to avoid or remedy any violation of law, breach of these Rules, or infringement of any intellectual property right. Additionally, BAREIS shall have the right to alter or remove metadata and copyright management information contained in the listing. If the Listing Broker is unable to correct an error, he or she shall notify BAREIS in writing. BAREIS’ sole responsibility shall be to correct the error as presented by the Listing Broker.

1. 9.12 Detail on Listings – Listings Information. Listing information filed with BAREIS by the Listing Broker shall be complete in every detail, including property status, contract dates, the listing price, the expiration date, photographs, and any other items required to be included as determined by the Board. A Listing Broker who is notified by any Third Party, including the Seller or BAREIS, that the data has an error or omission or requires a correction, shall complete or correct the information within three Days from the date the Listing Broker is so notified. (Rev. 08/12/2024)

1. 9.13 Listing Photograph Requirements. A minimum of one photograph or graphic image best depicting the exterior of the subject property shall be attached to the listing within one Day of entering the listing unless the Seller signs an exclusion, utilizing the BAREIS Approved SEL form, directing that the property image not appear in MLS compilations. No photos may be removed from the listing once the listing is Closed, Expired, or Withdrawn/Cancelled. Any image (including architectural renderings) that illustrates any condition other than the “as-is” condition of the property shall be labeled as such in the Public Remarks field or on the photo itself. Photographs are optional for Coming Soon, Land, Commercial, Business Opportunity, Residential Lease, or Commercial Lease listings.
2. 9.14 Special Provisions. Any special circumstance, provision, contingency, or condition of any type in a listing agreement that would materially affect the Buyer or the decision of the Buyer to purchase the subject property, or a condition within or outside of the listing agreement that would materially and adversely affect the ability of a representative of any party to Cooperate in the transaction shall be specified in the Private Remarks. (Rev. 08/12/2024)
3. 9.15 Member as Principal. If a Listing Broker through one or more intermediaries has any interest, whether direct or indirect, in the property, other than the Listing Broker’s rights under the subject listing agreement, the Listing Broker shall clearly indicate this fact in the Private Remarks.
4. 9.16 Correct Use of Data Fields. Data fields shall be used to convey information about the subject listing but only the specific information allowed or required by the designated data field. (Rev. 08/12/2024)
   • 9.16.1 Prohibited Uses of MLS Data fields.
     (a) Offers of compensation, bonuses, or incentives to a Buyer Broker or other Buyer representative are prohibited in any MLS Data field.
     (b) Seller incentives, credits, or Concessions to a Buyer are prohibited in any MLS Data field. (Rev. 09/30/2024) referenced in Public Remarks, Private Remarks, or another data field in the MLS shall not be limited to, or conditioned on, the retention of or payment to a Buyer Broker or other Buyer representative.
     (c) The publication of access codes, including security alarm codes, digital deadbolt codes, and gate codes is prohibited in any MLS Data field.
     (d) Posting names or contact information about Real Estate Licensees who are not Members of BAREIS or a reciprocating MLS such as defined in Rule 8 is prohibited in any MLS Data field
     (e) Disparaging Members or Members’ offices is prohibited in any MLS Data field.
     (f) Information that is prohibited or restricted by any federal, state, or local regulation is prohibited in any MLS Data field. (Rev. 08/12/2024)
   1. 9.16.2 Private Remarks. The Private Remarks data field is intended to contain agent-to-agent remarks, showing instructions, financing or escrow information, contact information, and any information deemed confidential pursuant to these Rules. (Rev. 08/12/2024)
   • 9.16.3 Public Remarks Field. Information in the Public Remarks Field shall only relate to the marketing, description, and condition of the property and its amenities. The following information is prohibited in the Public Remarks field: (Rev. 08/12/2024)
     • Contact information, including names, phone or fax numbers, email addresses, or website addresses (including virtual tours and URLs) or calling instructions is prohibited in the Public Remarks field.
     • Showing or open house instructions are prohibited in the Public Remarks field.
     • Information directed toward real estate agents or Brokers is prohibited in the Public Remarks field.
     • Personal information relating to the seller or occupants of the property is prohibited in the Public Remarks field.
     • Information related to financing governed by truth-in-lending laws is prohibited in the Public Remarks field.
     • Non-branded community interest and HOA website addresses are permitted in the Public Remarks field.
   • 9.16.4 Photograph Areas and Virtual Media. Photograph areas, including photo remarks, shall be used only for their specified purpose of displaying the subject property, its amenities, and areas of community interest.
     • Photo remarks are restricted to describing the subject photograph.
     • The first and most prominent photograph of the listing shall be of the subject property.
     • Up to 5 community interest photographs with remarks describing the subject of the photograph may be posted; however, the total number of community photographs shall not exceed 50% of the total number of photographs.
     • Virtual tours should be pointed directly to a virtual tour, and not to a company or agent’s website.
     • Photographs shall not contain legible contact information, including, but not limited to, office or agent names.
     • Photographs or images entered by members shall not contain branding.
     • Photographs of the subject property and its amenities shall not contain images of people.
   1. • 9.16.5 HUD Discriminatory Terms. Fair housing laws prohibit the use of certain discriminatory terms and actions. Members are expected to be aware of these terms and are prohibited from the use of these terms in the MLS Data. All listing information, including all remarks, submitted to the MLS must be in compliance with fair housing laws. The MLS monitors listing content and employs a process for identifying potential violations of fair housing laws. Should potential fair housing law violations be identified, Members will be advised to immediately remove or correct such potential violations. Failure to remove or correct may subject Members to discipline and/or subject the listing to immediate removal from display.

1. 9.17 Change of Listing Information. Listing Brokers shall report any change in the original listing agreement to BAREIS within three Days. By reporting changes, the Listing Broker represents that the Seller has authorized the listing modification in writing or that the Listing Broker has obtained other legally sufficient written authorization to make the changes.

1. 9.18 Processing of Changes in Listings. Changes in listings shall be submitted to BAREIS on change forms, or directly entered by the Member into the MLS Data. Change forms shall be complete. Incomplete change forms shall be returned to the Listing Broker for completion. Change forms covering listings originally entered by BAREIS into the MLS Data are processed by BAREIS at no charge. Change forms covering listings originally entered into the MLS Data by Members are processed by BAREIS for a fee.

1. 9.19 Reporting of Sales. Final sales data or final results of the transaction shall be reported to BAREIS for all properties listed in the MLS Data. Contingent sales, pending sales, failed sales, closed sales, and referred sales shall be reported to BAREIS by the Listing Broker as soon as practicable, but in no event later than three Days after their occurrence. (Rev. 08/12/2024)
   • 9.19.1 Contingent Sales. Listings with accepted offers by the Seller with contingencies or conditions (i.e., Buyer’s or Seller’s lender’s approval, inspections, release clauses, etc.) shall be reported to the MLS as “Contingent” by the Listing Broker. Neither the offer price nor terms shall be posted prior to the final closing.
   • 9.19.2 Pending Sales. Listings with accepted offers without contingencies shall be reported to the MLS as “Pending” by the Listing Broker. Neither the offer price nor terms shall be posted prior to the final closing.
   • 9.19.3 Failed Sales. The Listing Broker shall report to BAREIS the cancellation of any contingent or pending sale and the listing shall be reinstated as long as there is still a valid listing.
   • 9.19.4 Closed Sales. A “Closed Sale” (“Closed”) is defined as a completed transaction where escrow has closed and title to the property has been transferred, or, in the case of a lease, where the lease agreement has been signed by the lessor and the lessee.
   • 9.19.5 Deed Returned to Lender. If a property listed in the MLS Data results in a return of the deed to the lender, e.g., a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure, the listing shall be withdrawn/canceled on the date the deed-in-lieu is issued and shall not be included in the MLS Data as “Closed” or as a “Comparable/Sold off MLS Sale.” When withdrawing/canceling the listing, the first statement in the Private Remarks field shall describe the type of transaction or the circumstances under which the deed was returned, e.g., “Withdrawn and canceled. Seller issued a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure.”
   • 9.19.6 Duplicate Sales. The Listing Broker shall report as Closed the listing that best reflects the Buyer’s intended use of the property. The other listing shall be updated as Duplicate Withdrawn by the Listing Broker.
   • 9.19.7 Reporting Concessions at Closing
     Seller Concessions provided to the Buyer, if any, may be reported in the MLS by the Listing Broker when a listing is reported as Closed. Concession remarks shall not refer to payments to a Buyer Broker or other Buyer representative. (Rev. 09/30/2024)

1. 9.20 Comparable/Sold Off MLS Listings. A Property that is Sold without being entered into the MLS Data may be entered into the MLS Data only for comparable purposes and after the close of escrow. The Listing Broker or Buyer’s Broker shall secure written approval from the Seller and Buyer to enter the sales information into the MLS Data. The listing shall be entered into the MLS Data with the status of “Sold Off MLS” within 30 Days of the close of escrow. When a listing is entered as a Comparable/Sold Off MLS Listing, the On-Market Date entered shall be the date the listing agreement or single-party compensation agreement became effective, at least one exterior photo of the property shall be uploaded, and “Entered for Comp Purposes Only” shall appear in the first line of the Private Remarks field. (Rev. 08/12/2024)

1. 9.21 Withdrawal of Listing Prior to Expiration. Listings of property shall not be withdrawn from the MLS Data by the Listing Broker before the expiration date of the listing agreement unless the listing agreement is canceled in writing. BAREIS reserves the right to request a copy of the Seller’s written authorization or cancellation from the Listing Broker.

1. 9.22 Expiration, Extension, and Renewal of Listings; Days on Market.
   • 9.22.1 Expiration. Listings shall be coded “Expired” on the MLS Data on the expiration date specified in the listing agreement unless the listing is extended or renewed by the Listing Broker in accordance with these Rules.
   • 9.22.2 Extensions and Renewals. The Listing Broker shall obtain written authorization from the Seller before filing any extension or renewal of a listing.
   • 9.22.3 Days on Market ("DOM").DOM applies to the total number of Days a listing is Active or Contingent on the MLS. For the purpose of determining DOM, if the property is Withdrawn/Cancelled or Expired, DOM shall reset to zero if a new listing is created in the MLS. A new listing agreement is required.
   • 9.22.4 Cumulative Days on Market (“CDOM”). CDOM applies to the total length of time a property is Active or Contingent on the MLS, whether pursuant to a single listing agreement or multiple listing agreements, and continues to accumulate DOM for the property until the property is marked as Pending. For the purpose of determining CDOM, if the property is Withdrawn/Cancelled or Expired for more than 30 Days, CDOM shall reset to zero if replaced with a new listing.

1. 9.23 Solicitation of Listing Filed with BAREIS. Members shall not solicit a listing with respect to properties listed in the MLS Data during the term of a valid existing listing agreement, provided that this prohibition shall in no way limit the right of any Member to solicit listings through general advertising.

1. 9.24 Listings of Members Suspended or Terminated. When a Participant is suspended or terminated, including by reason of resignation or Expulsion, the Participant’s listings in the MLS Data at the time of such Suspension or Termination shall, at BAREIS’ option, be retained in the MLS Data until Closed, withdrawn, or Expired, but shall not be renewed or extended by BAREIS beyond the expiration date of the listing agreement in effect when the Suspension or Termination became effective. All change orders for pre-existing listings shall be in writing and mailed, sent by facsimile, emailed, or hand-carried to the appropriate BAREIS service center to be sent to BAREIS for input into the MLS Data. Suspension of MLS Privileges of a Participant extends to all Subscribers affiliated with that Participant. It shall be the responsibility of the Listing Broker to notify any Client that the listings are no longer in the MLS Data.

• 10.1 Showings and Negotiations.
  1. 10.1.1 Appointments. Appointments for showings and negotiations with the Seller for the purchase of listed property filed in the MLS Data shall be conducted through the Listing Broker except under the following circumstances:
     1. The Listing Broker gives the Buyer’s Broker specific authority to show or negotiate directly, or, if the Listing Broker is having all showings and negotiations conducted solely by the Seller, the Listing Broker shall clearly set forth such fact in the Private Remarks filed with BAREIS; or
     2. After reasonable effort and for no less than 24 hours the Buyer’s Broker cannot contact the Listing Broker or his or her representative. However, the Listing Broker, at his or her option, may preclude such direct negotiations by the Buyer’s Broker by giving notice to all Members through the MLS Data.
  1. 10.1.2 Notification of Sale. If the Buyer’s Broker’s negotiations as described in 10.1.1 (a) or (b) result in an accepted offer, the Buyer’s Broker shall notify the Listing Broker of the Contingent or Pending status within 3 days of acceptance and the Listing Broker shall change the status of the listing to Contingent or Pending within 3 days of receiving notice from the Buyer’s Broker. Within 3 days of the final closing date, the Buyer’s Broker shall notify the Listing Broker of the Closed status and terms of the sale and the Listing Broker shall change the status of the listing to Closed in the MLS within 3 days of receiving notice from the Buyer’s Broker. 
• 10.2 Disclosing the Existence of Offers. Listing Brokers, in response to inquiries from Buyers or Buyer’s Brokers, shall disclose the existence of offers on the property unless instructed otherwise by the Seller in writing. The Listing Broker shall also disclose if asked whether offers were obtained by the Listing Broker, or by a Buyer’s Broker.
• 10.3 Listings with Instructions “Do Not Show” or “Not Accepting Offers.” A Listing Broker may instruct Buyer’s Brokers not to show a property, or not to submit offers, under the following provisions:
  • 10.3.1 Submitted Listings with “Do Not Show” Instructions. Approved Active listings shall be available for showings within three Days subject to the tenant’s rights unless otherwise indicated in writing by the Seller. If a property is listed in the MLS Data with an Active status containing information that instructs Buyer’s Brokers not to show the property, the Private Remarks shall indicate the process for the presentation of offers during the “do not show” period.
  • 10.3.2 Submitted Listings with Instructions To Not Submit Offers. If a property is listed in the MLS Data with an Active status containing information that instructs Buyer’s Brokers to not submit offers, the Listing Broker shall change the status of the property to “Temporarily Off-Market” until offers may be submitted.
• 10.4 Listing Broker’s Permission. A Buyer’s Broker shall enter into a written agreement with a Buyer prior to showing a listed property to the Buyer or touring or inspecting a listed property with the Buyer. The Buyer’s Broker agreement shall include at least a provision that: (1) to the extent that the Buyer’s Broker will receive compensation from any source, specifies and conspicuously discloses the amount or rate of compensation that the Buyer’s Broker will receive or how this amount will be determined; (2) sets forth the amount of compensation in a manner that is objectively ascertainable and which shall not be open-ended; and (3) prohibits the Buyer’s Broker from receiving compensation for brokerage services from any source that exceeds the aggregate amount or the rate agreed to in such agreement with the Buyer. The agreement shall also include a conspicuous statement that broker fees and commissions are not set by law and are fully negotiable as provided in Rule 11.2. (Rev. 08/12/2024)
• 10.5 Procedures for Presentation of Offers. The Listing Broker shall make arrangements to present an offer as soon as possible or give the Buyer’s Broker a satisfactory reason for not doing so. In the event a Listing Broker will not be participating in the presentation of offers, the Listing Broker shall clearly indicate this fact in the Private Remarks in the listing information filed with BAREIS.
• 10.6 Submission of Offers and Counter-Offers. Unless precluded by law, governmental regulation, or written instruction by the Seller, the Listing Broker shall submit all offers to purchase to the Seller until the closing of the sale, or the expiration or termination of the listing agreement. If requested by Buyer Broker in writing, Listing Broker shall provide Buyer Broker with Listing Broker’s written verification that Buyer Broker’s offer was presented (or a written notification that the Seller has waived the obligation to have the offer presented), said verification to be provided to Buyer Broker within three Days of Buyer Broker’s request. The Buyer Broker acting for the Buyer shall submit to Buyer all offers and counter-offers until acceptance.
• 10.7 Right of Cooperating Broker in Presentation of Offer. The Buyer’s Broker has the right to participate in the presentation of any offer to purchase that he or she secures but does not have the right to be present at any discussion or evaluation of that offer by the Seller and the Listing Broker. The Buyer’s Broker shall convey the offer to the Listing Broker for presentation if the Seller gives written instructions to the Listing Broker requesting that the Buyer’s Broker not be present during the offer presentation. The Buyer’s Broker has the right to receive a copy of the Seller’s written instructions from the Listing Broker in that regard. Nothing in this Rule 10.7 shall diminish or restrict the Listing Broker’s right to control the establishment of appointments for offer presentations.
• 10.8 Right of Listing Broker and Presentation of Counteroffers. The Listing Broker has the right to participate in the presentation of any counteroffer made by the Seller. The Listing Broker does not have the right to be present at any discussion or evaluation of a counteroffer by the Buyer. However, if the Buyer gives written instructions to the Buyer’s Broker that the Listing Broker not be present when a counteroffer is presented, the Listing Broker has the right to a copy of the Buyer’s written instructions in that regard.
• 10.9 Delayed Offer Presentation. A Listing Broker at the direction of the Seller may establish a date for presentation and review of all offers. If a Seller(s) has directed that offers are not to be presented for any length of time, Seller’s direction authorizing such arrangement shall be in writing, and Listing Broker shall provide clear and accurate notice to Members in the MLS of the date/time of presentation of offers as set forth in seller’s written instruction.
• 10.10 Member as a Buyer. If a Member wishes to acquire through one or more intermediaries an interest, direct or indirect, in a property listed with another Listing Broker, such contemplated interest shall be disclosed by such Member to the Listing Broker in writing prior to the time an offer to purchase is submitted to the Listing Broker.
• 10.11 Refusal to Sell. If the Seller of any listed property in the MLS Data refuses to accept a written offer satisfying the terms and conditions stated in the listing, such fact shall be disclosed in the Private Remarks section of the listing within 24 hours.

• 11.1 Control of Commission Rates or Fees Charged by Participants. BAREIS shall not fix, control, recommend, suggest, or maintain commission rates or fees for services to be rendered by Participants. Further, BAREIS shall not fix, control, recommend, suggest, or maintain the division of commissions or fees between Participants and non-Participants. BAREIS shall not be a party to the settlement of any dispute over compensation.
• 11.2 Required Consumer Disclosures Regarding Compensation.
  Buyer’s Brokers and Listing Brokers shall disclose to prospective Sellers and Buyers that broker compensation is not set by law and is fully negotiable. This disclosure shall be included in conspicuous language as part of any listing agreement, Buyer’s Broker agreement, or pre-closing disclosure documents. In the event that any such listing agreement, Buyer’s Broker agreement, or pre-closing disclosure document is a government form, then such Buyer’s Brokers, Listing Brokers or other Participants shall include a disclosure with conspicuous language expressly stating that broker commissions are not set by law and are fully negotiable. Listing Brokers shall also conspicuously disclose in writing to Sellers, and obtain a Seller’s written authority for, any payments or offer of payment that the Listing Broker or Seller will make to another broker, agent, or other representative (e.g. real estate attorney) acting for Buyers. This disclosure shall include the amount or rate of any such payment and shall be made in writing in advance of any payment or agreement to pay another broker acting for Buyers. (Rev. 08/12/2024)
• 11.3 No Offers of Compensation in MLS. Participants, Subscribers, Members, other real estate brokers or agents, or Sellers shall not make offers of compensation or offers of sharing of compensation through the use of any fields on the MLS to Buyer Brokers or other Buyer representatives. Nor shall Participants, Subscribers, Members, other real estate brokers or agents or Sellers disclose on the MLS Listing Broker compensation or total brokerage compensation negotiated between the Seller and the Listing Broker, or total Broker compensation (i.e. combined compensation to both Listing Brokers and Buyer Brokers). (Rev. 08/12/2024)
• 11.4 No Filtering Based on Compensation. Members shall not filter out or restrict MLS listings communicated to their customers or Clients based on the existence or level of compensation offered to the Buyer Broker or the name of a brokerage or agent. (Rev. 08/12/2024)

• 12.1 Preservation of the MLS Data. No data may be removed from the MLS Data other than by BAREIS. No MLS Data, including photographs or other Media, may be removed from the MLS Data other than by BAREIS for listings with statuses of Closed, Withdrawn/Cancelled, or Expired. Although a listing may be removed from display in the MLS compilation of current listing information, all data submitted to BAREIS shall remain in the MLS’s archives for historical and other purposes approved by the Board.
• 12.2 Confidentiality of MLS Data.
  • 12.2.1 Confidential Information. As used in these Rules, “Confidential Information” is to be broadly defined and includes: (a) all information and data stored in or accessible from the MLS Data, regardless of how accessed, whether by computer, computer tablet, cellphone, lockbox keys or any other device whatsoever, or how presented; or (b) all other information that has or could have commercial value or other utility to BAREIS in the operation or maintenance of the MLS, including its multiple listing service systems, procedures and methodologies, or other trade secrets, including its business plans, records, financial information, statements and tax returns, agendas for and minutes of meetings of the Board or its legal or advisory committees and their reports, or the identity of its licensees or licensors or their respective goods or services; or (c) all other information of which the unauthorized disclosure could be detrimental to BAREIS’ economic and business interests, whether or not such information is identified as “Confidential Information” by BAREIS; however, solely for the purpose of these Rules, “Confidential Information” shall not include information that is generally available to the public on the BAREIS website “GreatHomes.org.” Each Member (i) shall protect the confidentiality of such Confidential Information, (ii) shall not disclose or provide such Confidential Information to others, or facilitate the access by others of such Confidential Information, unless authorized to do so by BAREIS and these Rules, (iii) shall use such Confidential Information only for the purposes set forth in these Rules, and (iv) shall, at all times, maintain control over and responsibility for any Confidential Information provided to them by BAREIS and shall take the greater of reasonable care or the care such Member takes to protect its own Confidential Information. The Confidential Information contains BAREIS trade secrets under the California Uniform Trade Secrets Act and a misappropriation thereof shall be subject to sanctions under that Act. 
  • 12.2.2 Login Security Codes, Member Contact Information, Etc. Members are responsible for the security of their BAREIS login security codes or passwords, and Members shall not give or allow the use of or make their login security codes or passwords available to anyone else. Members are expected to keep the contact information of other Members confidential. Any communication with other Members shall be within the guidelines and opt-out provisions of Federal or state law governing email, facsimile, and telephone solicitation. Selling, transmitting, or providing non-Members with the contact information, login security codes, or passwords of any Member, whether intentionally, negligently, or inadvertently, is a violation of these Rules and may result in Termination from the MLS. 
• 12.3 Disclosure by Government Compulsion. If required by order of any government authority, a Member may disclose to such authority, information or material pertaining to or involving the Confidential Information to the extent required by such an order, provided that such Member shall first timely notify BAREIS of such order so that BAREIS may obtain a protective order sufficient to maintain the confidentiality of such information or materials.
• 12.4 Display and Use of the MLS Data. Members are hereby granted a limited, non-exclusive, terminable license to use and copy the MLS Data and display the MLS Data only in conjunction with their ordinary business activities. See Rules 13 and 14 for advertising and Internet advertising limitations.
• 12.5 Presentation of the MLS Data. Presentation of the MLS Data to a Member’s Client shall be only in the immediate presence or “virtual” presence (by electronic means) of the Member with his, her, or its Client. Members are prohibited from presenting the MLS Data to their clients for any purpose other than to market property or to support a sales presentation or a written appraisal or estimate of value on a particular property to a Client, and in no event shall Confidential Information be presented to a Client. 
• 12.6 Use of Listing Broker’s Own MLS Data. Nothing in these Rules prohibits a Broker Participant from transmitting, or re-transmitting electronically, or by any other means, the Listing Broker’s Own MLS Data to any Person.
• 12.7 Confidential MLS Data. Members shall not provide the following information from the MLS Data to a non-Member unless the Member obtains prior written consent from the Listing Broker: 
  1. Property owner’s name, phone number, or address (if different from the listed property), email address, occupant name, occupant phone number, occupant type, and phone number for showing property;
  2. Instructions or remarks intended for Buyer’s Brokers, including but not limited to showing instructions or security references for the listed property;
  3. Type of listing agreement and expiration date;
  4. Any other information except a description of the property, and price. (Rev. 08/12/2024)
  1. 12.8 Downloading the MLS Data. Participants may download the MLS Data into a computer as long as:
  1. 1. Access to the computer receiving the data is strictly limited to authorized Members and Administrative Users as defined in these Rules;
     2. The data is re-transmitted only to the Member authorized to access the system by these Rules; and
     3. The data is not reformatted or used to create another product except as may be used by the Member who downloaded the data and such use strictly complies with Rules 12.4, 13, and 14.
  1. 12.9 BAREIS Rights to Disclose. BAREIS reserves the right to distribute to third parties certain information about Members, including a Member’s name and business address, phone number, and email address. BAREIS reserves the right to distribute to third parties aggregated information about Members’ use of the MLS, but not about Members’ use specifically. In addition, BAREIS may provide government agencies access to the MLS at any time in BAREIS’ sole discretion.

• 13.1 “For Sale” Signs. Only the “For Sale” signs of the Listing Broker may be placed on the property.
• 13.2 “Sold” Signs and Use of the Term “Sold.” Prior to closing, only the “Sold” or “In Escrow” signs of the Listing Broker may be placed on a property, unless the Listing Broker authorizes the Buyer’s Broker in writing to post such signs. After closing, and only with the written permission of the Buyer, “Sold” signs of the Listing Broker or the Buyer’s Broker may be placed on a property.
• 13.3 Use of the MLS Data in Advertising. Except as provided in Rules 13.4, 13.5, and without the prior written consent or consent granted under Rule 14 of the Listing Broker, any advertising of MLS Data is prohibited by any Member other than the Listing Broker. Only Members who participated in the transaction as the Listing Broker or Buyer’s Broker may claim to have “Sold” the property.
• 13.4 Use of the Comparable MLS Data in Advertising. Except as provided in Rules 12.4, 13.3, and Rule 14, any advertising of Comparable MLS Data is prohibited except for use in a Member’s marketing materials that are designed to promote the Member’s services as a Real Estate Broker, agent, or Appraiser, generally. Comparable MLS Data obtained from BAREIS and used in such marketing materials shall contain the following disclaimer:
  • This information is based on sales reported in Bay Area Real Estate Information Services, Inc. (BAREIS) and is not verified and is subject to change. Listings represented may not have been listed or sold by (agent/firm name).
• 13.5 Use of the MLS Data in Market Share Advertising. Advertising of statistical data for the purpose of demonstrating market share is permitted; provided, however, that any use of MLS Data for demonstrating market share shall include the following notice:
  • Based on information from Bay Area Real Estate Information Services, Inc. (BAREIS) for the period [date] through [date]. Information has not been verified, is not guaranteed, and is subject to change.
• 13.6 False or Misleading Advertising and Representations; Unfair Competition. Members shall not engage in any unlawful or fraudulent business act or practice or unfair, deceptive, untrue, or misleading advertising or other conduct that violates the provisions of California Business and Professions Code, § 17200, et seq., including advertisements or representations regarding the Member’s relationship to the MLS Data, BAREIS itself, or any property listed in the MLS Data. Members shall not represent to a client or customer that their services as an agent or representative to a Buyer or Seller in a real estate transaction are free or available at no cost to their clients unless the Member will receive no financial compensation from any source for those services. It shall not be BAREIS’ responsibility to mediate or resolve conflicts between or among Members with respect to false or misleading advertising or other unfair business practices. (Rev. 08/12/2024)
• 13.7 Use of the Terms.
  • 13.7.1 No Misrepresentation of MLS. No Member affiliated with any Broker Participant shall, through the name of such Member’s firm, URLs, e-mail addresses, website addresses, or in any other way, represent, suggest or imply that the individual or firm is a Multiple Listing Service, an “MLS,” or that he, she or it operates a Multiple Listing Service. Members shall not represent, suggest or imply that consumers or others have direct access to the MLS Data, or that consumers or others are able to search the MLS Data available only to Members. This does not prohibit Members from representing that any information they are authorized under these Rules to provide to Clients or consumers is available on their websites or otherwise.
  • 13.7.2 Governing DRE Provisions. Provisions in the Department of Real Estate Regulations, Article Five, § 2731, govern fictitious business names and prohibit the use of any names that are misleading or would constitute false advertisement.

• 14.1 Broker’s Usage of Proprietary Data. Brokers are not restricted from downloading, displaying, or reproducing their own listing information on any Internet site. BAREIS does not prohibit Members from linking their own Internet sites to other Internet sites where other Brokers’ listings may be advertised.
• 14.2 False or Misleading Advertising and Representations. MLS Members shall present a true picture in Internet representations to the public, including the Internet content, images and URLs, and domain names they use; and Members shall not:
  1. Engage in deceptive or unauthorized framing of real estate brokerage websites;
  2. Manipulate (e.g., presenting content developed by others) listing and other content in any way that produces a deceptive or misleading result;
  3. Deceptively use meta tags, keywords or other devices/methods to direct, drive, or divert Internet traffic;
  4. Present Content developed by others without either attribution or without permission; or
  5. Otherwise mislead consumers, including the use of misleading images.
• 14.3 Member Linking Websites. Members may link or “frame” from their public-access website, any public-access website owned and operated by BAREIS (currently GreatHomes.org), provided the BAREIS website and data is displayed in its entirety. Display of the BAREIS public website in its entirety shall not be considered a violation of Rule 13. Members shall not frame the MLS system website (currently Rapattoni).
• 14.4 Internet Data Exchange (IDX) Displaying the MLS Data for the General Public Access – Member Websites. Internet display of MLS Data posted in the MLS by other Members is prohibited without the prior written consent of the Listing Broker, or through both Broker Participants’ enrollment in the IDX program. 

  A Member/Subscriber that is employed or affiliated with a Broker Participant may, with the consent of the Broker Participant with which the Member/Subscriber is employed or is affiliated as an independent contractor, establish and operate an IDX website. For purposes of this Rule 14.4, IDX website includes the following authorized electronic mediums for distributing IDX data: websites, mobile applications, and audio devices. Such authorization is presumed for IDX websites provided to Members by BAREIS. Broker Participants shall provide oversight and supervision of IDX websites built and maintained by their Members/Subscribers or their vendors and shall be accountable for compliance of such websites with MLS Rules, policies, procedures, and guidelines. 

  1. Subject to paragraphs (b) through (o) below, and notwithstanding anything in these Rules to the contrary, Members may display on their public websites IDX Internet Data and IDX Enhanced Internet Data identified by the Listing Broker as “permitted to be advertised by other Brokers” and identified as permissible to “pass to Internet”, through the listing process. There is no “presumed consent” for such Internet display.
  2. A Member shall not advertise IDX Listings of other Broker Participants granting permission to do so on the Internet until the Broker Participant has signed and agreed to the terms of an IDX license agreement provided by BAREIS. As a part of that agreement, the Broker Participant shall commit to making all of his, her or its listings available for transmission through the MLS Data to other Broker Participants participating in IDX license agreements for display on the Internet.
  3. A Broker Participant that is not advertising on the Internet the listings of other Broker Participants, but wishes to grant permission to other Broker Participants to advertise his, her or its listings on the Internet, is required to sign a BAREIS IDX license agreement.
  4. Members shall not advertise IDX Internet Data of other Members on the Internet unless their Broker Participant has signed a BAREIS IDX license agreement.
  5. Members shall not display Confidential Information on their IDX websites. 
  6. All listings on a Member’s IDX website shall identify the firm name of the listing brokerage and listing agent in a manner designed to easily identify such listing brokerage or agent. Displays of minimum information (e.g. a one-line thumbnail search result, text messages, “tweets”, etc. of two hundred characters or less) are exempt from this requirement but only when linked directly to a display that includes all required disclosures.
  7. Members shall not modify the information displayed pursuant to these Rules.
  8. IDX Internet Data displayed shall indicate the source of the information being displayed, and the most recent date the data was updated. Members shall update all downloads and refresh all data at least once every 12 hours.
  9. Sharing of the MLS Data with any Third Party, or permitting a Third-Party vendor not authorized by a BAREIS IDX license agreement to access the MLS Data, is prohibited.
  10. Members shall indicate on their IDX websites that the information being provided is for the consumer’s personal, non-commercial use, and shall not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties that consumers may be interested in purchasing.
  11. Members displaying IDX Listings on their websites must adhere to the Listing Broker’s and Seller’s written instructions regarding use of “address on Internet (full/partial)” flags in the MLS compilation.
  12. A Listing Broker may exclude a previously approved listing at any time up to and including the date of sale, regardless of status, from being transmitted to public and IDX websites by marking the listing "do not pass to the Internet."
  13. IDX Enhanced Data includes certain Off-Market MLS Data that is restricted for use on Member IDX websites and BAREIS-approved public sites. Members are permitted to transmit the Member’s own listings and listings data to any Person of the Member’s choice. A Member’s transmission of IDX Internet Data and IDX Enhanced Internet Data through a Syndicator shall be limited solely to the Member’s own listings and listings data.
  14. Members shall not filter, suppress, hide, or not display or distribute listings based on the level of compensation offered to the Buyer Broker or the name of the Listing Broker or listing agent on their IDX websites. (Rev. 08/12/2024)
  15. Members shall not use MLS Data or data feeds to directly or indirectly establish or maintain a platform to make offers of compensation from multiple brokers to Buyer Brokers or other Buyer representatives. (Rev. 08/12/2024)
  1. 14.5 Virtual Office – for the Broker Participant's Client Access. A Broker Participant may do in the virtual presence of his, her, or its Client anything permitted under these Rules that is allowed in their physical presence. A virtual office website (a “VOW”) is defined as a Broker Participant’s Internet office website (other than a public-access IDX site through which members of the general public receive certain real estate listing information) that includes the opportunity for a Broker Participant’s Clients to search the MLS Data, conditional on the Broker Participant’s oversight, supervision, and responsibility. In order to have a VOW, a Broker Participant shall obtain a separate license agreement with BAREIS to establish a VOW and shall also have its VOW vendor obtain a separate license agreement from BAREIS pursuant to Rule 14.4. A VOW shall operate in a manner consistent with the following guidelines: (Rev. 08/12/2024)
     1. Confirmation and Verification. Members can provide access to a Client only after (i) obtaining the name and valid email address of such Client, and (ii) sending an email to such Client in order to confirm that the Client has a valid address and has received and agreed to the VOW’s terms of use.
     2. Terms of Use. Terms of use shall include the following: (i) that the Client acknowledges entering into a Client-Broker relationship with the Participant; (ii) that all data obtained from the VOW is only for the Client’s Personal, non-commercial use; (iii) that the Client has a bona fide interest in the purchase, sale or lease of real estate of the type being offered through the VOW; (iv) that the Client shall not copy, redistribute, or retransmit or create derivative works from any of the MLS Data or information provided; and (v) that the Client acknowledges BAREIS’ ownership of and the validity of the copyright in the MLS Data. (Rev. 09/30/2024)
     3. User Name and Password. Members shall obtain from or supply to each Client a username and a password, the combination of which shall be different from those of all other Clients on the VOW, before being permitted to search and retrieve information from the MLS Data using the VOW.
     4. Protection against Misappropriation. Members’ VOWs shall protect the MLS Data from misappropriation by employing reasonable efforts to monitor for and prevent “scraping” and other unauthorized accessing, reproduction, or use of the MLS Data. (Rev. 08/12/2024)
     5. Seller Withholding. A Broker Participant’s VOW shall not display the listing or property address of a Seller who has directed in writing that their Listing Broker withhold the Seller’s listing or property address from display on the Internet. Such Listing Broker shall promptly include in the MLS data that such Seller has so elected not to display the listing or property address on the Internet. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a Broker Participant who operates a VOW may provide the listing or property address with Internet display withheld to the Broker Participant’s Clients using a non-Internet disclosure of such information, such as email, telefax, or other communication that does not use or allow such listing or property address to appear directly or indirectly on the Internet.
     6. Distribution of Data. No portion of the MLS Data shall be distributed to, provided to, or made accessible to any Person, except as provided for in these Rules.
     7. Privacy Policy. All VOWs shall display the Members’ privacy policies informing Clients how information they provide may be used.
     8. Members shall not filter, suppress, hide, or not display or distribute listings based on the level of compensation offered to the Buyer Broker or the name of the Listing Brokerage or listing agent on their VOW websites. (Rev. 08/12/2024)
     9. Members shall not use MLS Data or data feeds to directly or indirectly establish or maintain a platform to make offers of compensation from multiple brokers to Buyer Brokers or other Buyer representatives. (Rev. 08/12/2024)
  1. 14.6 Third-Party Access. Each Member is responsible for all actions of each vendor, consultant, agent, or other third party (each a “Third Party”) employed or engaged by such Member who gains access to any data from the MLS Data, regardless of whether the MLS Data is displayed on a free-standing Internet site or through a link to the Member’s Internet site. Each such Third Party is required to sign an agreement with BAREIS prior to any access to or transmission of such MLS Data. Per Section 4.2 of these Rules, all right, title, and interest in the MLS Data created and copyrighted by BAREIS shall at all times remain vested exclusively in BAREIS. BAREIS may accept or deny any application for third-party access to the MLS Data in its sole discretion or may impose additional conditions or requirements for any application for access. BAREIS reserves the right to terminate access if it concludes that the agreement has been breached in any way. The agreement shall restrict the Third Party’s use of the MLS Data, and each such Third Party is required to acknowledge and adhere to these Rules. No Third Party employed or engaged to develop or operate any Internet site for a Member, or utilizing a Member’s site through a link, shall utilize the MLS Data in any manner, including capturing names and Personal information of visitors to the site for any other purpose than that permitted in such agreement with BAREIS. Links to the Member’s Internet site by unrelated Internet sites may be established with the permission of the Member. The host sites of links to a Member’s Internet site shall be considered Third Parties of such Member and are subject to these Rules. Failure to adhere to these Rules by a Member’s Third Parties shall be considered prohibited access to or transmission of the MLS Data in violation of these Rules and may result in sanctions against such Third Parties or such Member.

• 15.1 Eligibility for Electronic Lockboxes and Lockbox Key Service. Electronic lockboxes and lockbox keys are administered by an authorized administrator in the BAREIS Primary Service Area. Members in good standing with BAREIS or a reciprocal entity as defined in Section 8 are eligible for lockbox key privileges. Administrative Users are not eligible for lockbox key privileges. BAREIS Members shall be eligible to hold an electronic lockbox and lockbox key provided:

1. 1. The lockbox key holder signs a lease agreement with a local lockbox key administrator.
   2. The Broker Participant to which the lockbox key holder is licensed cosigns the lease agreement (if necessary under the lease agreement).
   3. The lockbox key holder continues to comply with all BAREIS Rules relating to lockboxes and lockbox keys and all terms of the lease agreement and user’s guide provided by the issuing entity.
   4. The Member remains eligible for BAREIS MLS services.

• 15.2 Lockbox Key Use. Lockbox keys shall not be used under any circumstances by anyone other than the lockbox key holder. Permitting the unauthorized use of a lockbox key is subject to the fine listed in EXHIBIT A-2. All Confidential Information accessed by or through a lockbox key shall be subject to Section 12.2.1 of these Rules. If a lockbox key user loses a lockbox key, or the lockbox key is stolen and the access codes are stored with a lockbox key, this shall be considered permitting unauthorized use. Lockbox keys shall only be used for the purpose of facilitating the sale or lease of a listed property.
• 15.3 Accountability. Lockbox key holders shall account for lockbox keys at the time of any inventory conducted by the issuing lockbox key administrator, or its designated representative. Lockbox key holders who voluntarily or involuntarily cease to subscribe to the MLS shall promptly return all lockbox keys in their possession to the MLS.
• 15.4 Deemed Unaccountable. Lockbox keys shall be deemed unaccounted for if a lockbox key holder refuses or is unable to demonstrate that the lockbox key is within the lockbox key holder's physical control.
• 15.5 Written Authority for Placement and Removal of Lockbox. Members shall not place a lockbox on a property without written authorization from the Seller and without advising the Seller of the Seller’s duty to secure permission for Broker access from the occupant, if the occupant is not the Seller. The Listing Broker must remove the lockbox from the property within one day after close of escrow, termination, or unless instructed otherwise in writing by the Buyer or the Buyer’s agent.
• 15.6 Listing Broker's Permission. No Member shall enter a property with or without a lockbox without the Listing Broker's permission. Permission may be granted by the Listing Broker to use the lockbox through the MLS Data. Appraisers are prohibited from using keypads to enter a property without either the Seller’s or Listing Broker's permission. Showing instructions contained in the database do not satisfy the appraiser-permission requirement.
• 15.7 Unaccounted for Lockbox Keys. Lockbox key holders and Broker Participants cosigning with a lockbox key holder shall immediately report lost, stolen, or otherwise unaccounted for lockbox keys to its local lockbox key administrator or its designated representative in accordance with the lease agreement.
• 15.8 Failure to Abide by Rules. Failure to abide by these Rules and the usage requirements of the entity issuing the lockbox and lockbox key may result in disciplinary sanctions as provided within these Rules, in addition to loss of or restriction on all lockbox and lockbox key privileges.
• 15.9 Right to Limit Access. BAREIS reserves the right to refuse or limit access to lockboxes if, in its sole discretion, it determines the security of the system would be compromised by granting access to lockboxes.
• 15.10 Protection of Property. Extreme care shall be used by a Member to ensure that all doors and access points to the listed property to which the Member has had access and the lockboxes thereon are locked. A Member shall be physically present on the property at all times when providing access to a listed property unless the Seller has consented otherwise in writing.
  • 15.10.1 Use of Lockbox Contents. Keys or devices used to access the property shall only be used to enter the property for the purpose of showing or selling the property unless permission otherwise is granted in writing by the Listing Broker or Seller. Members shall at all times follow the showing instructions published in the MLS Data. Members shall not remove contents of the lockbox for purposes other than facilitating the sale or lease of the property. While at the property, Members shall keep lockbox contents in their possession at all times after removal from the lockbox. The lockbox or contents shall not be removed from the property without prior consent from the Listing Broker. Members shall return key or device to access property to the lockbox upon exiting the property.
• 15.11 Compatible Lockboxes; Multiple Lockboxes. If a lockbox or keyless access device is present on a property for the purpose of allowing agents access to that property and is located in the Primary Service Area (Sonoma, Marin, Napa, Solano, or Mendocino) and listed for sale or lease in the MLS Data, a BAREIS-approved electronic lockbox shall be present, or a lockbox that is compatible with the BAREIS-approved system or has been otherwise approved in writing by BAREIS. If a lockbox or keyless access device is present on a property for the purpose of allowing agents access to that property and the property is not located in the Primary Service Area but is located within the primary geographical service area of an MLS subject to a cross-pollination agreement with BAREIS, an electronic lockbox that is compatible with the MLS for the geographical area where the property is located shall also be present. The BAREIS-approved lockbox shall include a key, device, combination, or code to access property. This Rule 15.11 does not prohibit the placement of additional lockboxes. Commercial and Business Opportunity listings are excluded from this Rule 15.11.

• By filing a listing with BAREIS or otherwise participating in the MLS, each Member, including each Listing Broker, represents and warrants, on their own behalf and, if applicable, on behalf of any of such Member’s agents or representatives or principals, that such Member has given all lawfully required privacy notices and opt-out rights to any individuals, including such Member’s respective seller or Buyer clients, whose personal information, as defined in the California Consumer Privacy Act (“CCPA”), may be submitted or included in the MLS or otherwise shared through or included in the MLS Data or otherwise in connection with the MLS. The notice shall show that all required privacy notices and opt-out rights have been given. All Members shall comply with the notice requirements in this Rule 16 regardless of whether they are considered a “business” or “third party” or otherwise under the CCPA. BAREIS shall have the right to demand, at any time and for any reason, a copy of such privacy notice or a written verification that such lawfully required privacy notice and opt-out opportunity and related rights have been given. If a Member fails to provide the documentation requested by BAREIS within one day after such request, BAREIS shall have the right to immediately withdraw any listings from the MLS Data in addition to disciplining the Member in accordance with Rule 17 or exercising any other right or remedy available to BAREIS under these Rules. (Rev. 08/12/2024)

  In the event BAREIS receives a consumer opt-out or deletion request, or any other request by a consumer in connection with exercising his or her data privacy rights under the CCPA, BAREIS reserves the right, in its discretion, to remove or delete such personal information (or to otherwise accommodate such request) in connection with satisfying or complying with the CCPA. However, BAREIS may not be obligated to comply with such requests under the CCPA and, accordingly, reserves the right to reject any such request that BAREIS determines to be unfounded or not required.

• 17.1 Citations. The Board may impose fines or sanctions for violation of any Bylaw or Rule. Additionally, the Board may implement a schedule of fines and other sanctions (see Exhibit A-2) for certain violations of these Rules. The Board may direct staff to issue citations for the specified violations and implement a procedure for payment. Any Member receiving a citation shall pay the amount specified on the citation and complete the BAREIS Online Orientation class within 14 Days of receiving the citation.
  • 17.1.1 Citation Notice. The citation, also referred to as a “fine letter,” shall be in writing, may be given as follows, and shall be deemed to have been received by the Member when:
    • Hand-delivered to the Member; or
    • Sent by email or facsimile at the address or number on record for the Member, provided:
      • A copy of the notice is promptly mailed with first-class postage prepaid to the Member; or
      • BAREIS receives a written confirmation of receipt either by email, facsimile or any other method permitted under this Rule 17.1.1; or
    • Three Days after the notice has been deposited in a United States post office with first-class, postage prepaid and addressed to the Member; or
    • The next Day after the notice has been deposited with a national overnight delivery service, delivery fees prepaid, addressed to the Member with next Day delivery guaranteed, provided that BAREIS receives a confirmation of the delivery from the delivery-service provider.
  • 17.1.2 Appealing the Citation. A Member receiving a citation may request an appeal according to the policy as set forth in Exhibit B. The purpose of the appeal shall be limited to explaining why the fine was incorrectly levied, and not to discuss any other item, including the intent or integrity of the Rule or fine, or to propose Rules changes.
  • 17.1.3 Board-Initiated Hearing. If any Member commits three violations within a 12-month period that result in either fines or warnings requiring corrections, the Board may, at its discretion, direct the Grievance Committee to review the Member’s record of fines and warnings, which may result in a disciplinary hearing for further action. If a Subscriber, who is under the supervision of a single Participant, commits four violations within a 12-month period that results in either fines or warnings requiring corrections, the Board may, at its discretion, direct the Grievance Committee to initiate a review of the Participant’s record of fines and warnings, which may result in a disciplinary hearing for further action. (See Rule 17.4.2(b) and 17.4.2(c).)
• 17.2 Grounds for Disciplinary Action and Sanctions. After a hearing by a hearing panel as provided in the California Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual, the Board may take disciplinary action and impose sanctions against any BAREIS Participant or Subscriber:
  • For violation of any Rule;
  • Upon the Member being convicted, adjudged, or otherwise recorded as guilty by a final judgment of any court of competent jurisdiction of a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude;
  • Upon a determination by any court of competent jurisdiction or an official of the State of California authorized to make the determination that the Member violated a provision of the California real estate law or a regulation of the California Real Estate Commissioner or laws or regulations relating to real estate appraisers or, with respect to the conduct of business as a Real Estate Broker or real estate appraiser, has engaged in unfair business practices, including false or misleading advertising, in violation of California Business and Professions Code, § 17200 through § 17210;
  • For any violation of Rule 17.2(a) by a non-Member Administrative User, Real Estate Licensee, real estate appraiser, or Broker who is affiliated with the Participant;
  • For any violation of Rule 17.2(a) by an Administrative User who is registered under a Member;
• 17.3 Sanctions. Sanctions or disciplinary action for violation of a Rule may consist of one or more of those specified in the California Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual. Anyone may file a disciplinary complaint against a Member alleging violation of an MLS rule that is identified as being subject to disciplinary complaint process in EXHIBIT A2 of these Rules.
• 17.4 Procedures for Disciplinary Hearings, Expulsion, and Suspension.
  • 17.4.1 Procedures for Disciplinary Hearings. All Rules disciplinary hearings shall be processed in accordance with the California Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual, as from time to time amended, which is hereby incorporated by reference. Failure to abide by the procedures shall be a violation of these Rule.
  • 17.4.2 Procedures for Expulsion and Suspension. If grounds appear to exist for Expulsion or Suspension of a Member under Section 3.6 of the Bylaws, the procedure set forth below shall be followed:
    • The Member shall be given 15 Days’ prior notice of the proposed Expulsion or Suspension and the reasons for the proposed Expulsion or Suspension. Notice shall be given by any method reasonably calculated to provide actual notice in any manner permitted by Rule 17.1.1.
    • The Member shall be given an opportunity to be heard, either orally or in writing, at least 5 Days before the effective date of the proposed Expulsion or Suspension. The Member shall be heard orally, or the written statement considered, by the Board or by a committee or Person authorized by the Board to determine whether the Expulsion or Suspension should take place.
    • The Board, or the committee or Person authorized by the Board to make such a determination, shall decide whether or not the Member should be expelled or suspended. The decision of the Board, or the committee or Person authorized by the Board to make such a determination, shall be final.
  • 17.4.3 Limitations on Challenges. Any action challenging a Termination or Suspension of Membership, including Termination by reason of Expulsion, or a claim alleging defective notice, shall be commenced within one year after the date of the Suspension or Termination.
• 17.5 Mandatory Arbitration. By becoming and remaining a Member in BAREIS, each Member agrees to submit to binding arbitration disputes arising out of real estate business, or in conjunction with any listing set forth in the MLS Data, or any appraisal, with (a) any other Participant or Subscriber of BAREIS, or (b) participants and subscribers of any other MLS who are authorized to have access to the MLS Data under Rule 8, or (c) a Client arising out of an agency relationship with the Member, if the Client elects to arbitrate the dispute and agrees to be bound by the arbitration award. Such arbitrations shall be governed by the California Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual, as from time to time amended, which is hereby incorporated by reference. This shall be deemed an arbitration agreement within the meaning of Part 3, Title 9, of the California Code of Civil Procedure. Failure to submit to arbitration as provided herein shall be a violation of these Rules.
  • 17.5.1 Other Arbitration Agreements. Notwithstanding any other provision of these Rules, if any Participant or Subscriber enters into an agreement (either before or after a dispute arises) with another Participant or Subscriber to arbitrate a dispute utilizing non-BAREIS facilities, such Persons are not bound to arbitrate the dispute covered by such agreement under these Rules utilizing BAREIS facilities.
  • 17.5.2 Arbitration between Class B (Association) Members. Notwithstanding any other provision of these Rules;
    • If all disputants are Members of the same Class B Association, they shall arbitrate under that Class B Association in accordance with its rules.
    • If the disputants are Members of different Class B Associations, they remain obligated to arbitrate in accordance with the CAR interboard arbitration rules or under a regional or shared professional standards agreement.
    • Arbitration between Members affiliated with the same firm is not mandated by these Rules and shall not be accepted unless there is a written agreement to submit such disputes to the Class B Association for arbitration.
  • 17.5.3 Timing. For purposes of this Rule 17.5, the duty to arbitrate shall be determined according to when facts giving rise to the dispute occurred. Therefore, a Participant or Subscriber shall have a duty to arbitrate if such Person was a BAREIS Participant or Subscriber while facts giving rise to the dispute occurred. Termination of BAREIS participation or subscription shall not relieve the arbitration duty under this Rule 17.5.3 for disputes that arose when the Person was a BAREIS Participant or Subscriber. Requests for arbitration shall be filed within 180 Days after the closing of the transaction, or after the facts constituting the matters in dispute could have been known in the exercise of reasonable diligence, whichever is later.
• 17.6 Breach of Contract. A failure of a Member to abide by the Bylaws or these Rules, including Section 12.2 hereof, shall constitute a breach of contract for which the Member may be liable for BAREIS’ damages, costs, losses, or expenses (including BAREIS’ attorneys’ fees) incurred directly or indirectly in connection with or as a result of such breach. In the event a breach of contract proceeding is brought by BAREIS under this Section 17.6, the prevailing party shall be entitled to recover its reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses as well as its costs related to such proceeding.
• 17.7 Effect of Expulsion, Suspension, or Termination. Promptly upon any Expulsion, Suspension, or Termination of a Member’s membership in BAREIS pursuant to this Rule 17, (i) BAREIS may deactivate the Member’s user ID and password, and the Member shall have no further access to the MLS; (ii) the Member shall purge all copies of the MLS Data from the Member’s personal computers; (iii) all licenses granted by BAREIS hereunder shall immediately terminate, and (iv) the Member shall not be permitted to be affiliated with any other Participant of BAREIS unless a new applicable application agreement between such Member and BAREIS is executed. Notwithstanding the generality of the foregoing, however, the Listing License to BAREIS shall survive such Expulsion, Suspension, or Termination unless BAREIS determines to terminate such Listing License, in its sole discretion.

• In connection with, conditioned upon and in consideration of BAREIS’ granting of rights to use the MLS Data pursuant to these Rules, each Participant, Listing Broker, and Subscriber (each an “Indemnifying Party”), severally, and not jointly shall, and does hereby agree to, indemnify, defend and hold BAREIS and its service center operators and all officers, directors, employees and agents thereof (collectively, the “Indemnified Parties,” and, individually without distinction, an “Indemnified Party”), harmless from and against and in respect of any and all damages, losses, deficiencies, liabilities, fines, judgments, assessments, reasonable attorney fees’ and costs and expenses, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, costs and expenses incurred by BAREIS in administering any mediation or arbitration involving such Indemnifying Party, that are incurred or suffered by an Indemnified Party as a result of, relating to or arising out of any and all actions, suits, claims, proceedings, investigations, demands, assessments and audits, regardless of whether initiated or brought by a Member, another multiple listing service or other third party, incidental to or in any way relating or connected to;
  • the use or publication by BAREIS (including electronic publication) of any listing information or Media, or any part thereof, submitted to the MLS Data by or through such Indemnifying Party (including by or through any Administrative User who is an employee, independent contractor or other agent of such Indemnifying Party, an “Affiliated Administrative User”); or
  • any one or more breaches by such Indemnifying Party or any such Affiliated Administrative User of (i) any representation or warranty made by such Indemnifying Party to BAREIS, whether express or implied by these Rules or the Bylaws, or (ii) any intellectual property rights of others in or to such listing information or Media; or
  • any one or more failures by such Indemnifying Party or any such Affiliated Administrative User to abide by or adhere to the Bylaws or these Rules, as the same may be amended from time to time, or the rules or regulations of any multiple listing service with which BAREIS has any data sharing arrangement or agreement, in all respects, including any failure to provide full, true, complete and accurate listing information and Media for inclusion in the MLS Data or for BAREIS’ use or publication of, or BAREIS’ licensing of others to use or publish, any such listing information or Media; or
  • any intentional or negligent tortious conduct or violation of any criminal law or government regulation, including the regulations of the California Department of Real Estate or the California Bureau of Real Estate Appraisers, by such Indemnifying Party or any such Affiliated Administrative User.
• (acts as described in the foregoing clauses (a), (b), (c), or (d) being “Indemnifiable Acts”). The indemnity obligations of a Participant, Listing Broker, or Subscriber hereunder to any Indemnified Party shall also apply to and arise in connection with the commission of any Indemnifiable Act by any of such Indemnifying Party’s Affiliated Administrative Users. If any action is brought to enforce the terms of this Rule 18, the prevailing party shall be entitled to recover its reasonable attorneys’ fees and other costs incurred in connection with such proceeding.

• BAREIS PROVIDES THE MLS AND ALL COMPONENTS OF THE MLS, INCLUDING THE MLS DATA, ON AN “AS IS,” “AS AVAILABLE” BASIS. USE OF THE MLS AND THE INFORMATION AVAILABLE THROUGH THE MLS ARE AT THE SOLE RISK OF THE MEMBER. BAREIS AND THE BAREIS AFFILIATES DO NOT WARRANT THAT THE MLS WILL BE UNINTERRUPTED OR ERROR-FREE, AND THE BAREIS AFFILIATES MAKE NO WARRANTY AS TO THE ACCURACY, COMPLETENESS, CURRENCY, OR RELIABILITY OF ANY INFORMATION AVAILABLE THROUGH THE MLS. BAREIS AND THE BAREIS AFFILIATES EXPRESSLY DISCLAIM ANY AND ALL WARRANTIES WITH RESPECT TO THE MLS AND THE INFORMATION AVAILABLE THROUGH THE MLS, INCLUDING THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE MLS MAY CONTAIN HYPERLINKS TO WEBSITES OPERATED BY PARTIES OTHER THAN BAREIS; BAREIS DOES NOT CONTROL SUCH WEBSITES, IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR CONTENTS, DOES NOT ENDORSE THE SITES OR CONTENTS, AND MAY HAVE NO RELATIONSHIP WITH THE SITES’ OPERATORS. 
• TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW, NEITHER BAREIS NOR ANY ONE OR MORE OF THE BAREIS AFFILIATES SHALL BE LIABLE TO A MEMBER OR ANYONE ELSE FOR ANY INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES THAT RESULT FROM THE USE OF, OR INABILITY TO USE, THE MLS, INCLUDING RELIANCE BY A MEMBER ON ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED THROUGH USE OF THE MLS; MISTAKES, OMISSIONS, DELETIONS OR DELAYS IN TRANSMISSION OF SUCH INFORMATION; INTERRUPTIONS IN DATA CONNECTIONS TO THE MLS; OR VIRUSES OR FAILURES OF PERFORMANCE; WHETHER CAUSED IN WHOLE OR IN PART BY NEGLIGENCE, ACTS OF GOD, DATA CONNECTION FAILURE, OR THEFT OF, DESTRUCTION OF, OR UNAUTHORIZED ACCESS TO, THE MLS AND RELATED INFORMATION, RECORDS AND PROGRAMS. 
• IN NO EVENT SHALL BAREIS BE LIABLE TO ANY MEMBER FOR ANY AMOUNT IN EXCESS OF THE GREATER OF (a) THE FEES SUCH MEMBER HAS PAID BAREIS, IF ANY, IN THE YEAR IMMEDIATELY PRECEDING THE FIRST EVENT GIVING RISE TO ANY CLAIM FOR DAMAGES; OR (b) $100.

BAREIS EXHIBIT A-1

FEES AND CHARGES

BAREIS EXHIBIT A-2

CITATIONS FOR RULES VIOLATIONS

*Denotes a Rule subject to immediate citation.

** Suspension or Expulsion with the right to appeal.

****Subject to disciplinary complaint process as provided in California Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual.

BAREIS EXHIBIT B

WARNINGS, CITATION, AND APPEAL POLICY

This “Citation and Appeals Policy” is implemented pursuant to the Bay Area Real Estate Information Services, Inc. (“BAREIS”), MLS Rules, Rule 17, “Violations of Rules and Disputes,” and covers the violations outlined in Exhibit A-2, “Citations for Rules Violations.” The Citations may be amended at any time and from time to time by the Board. The Listing Broker and any Co-Listing Broker are equally responsible for violations of these Rules.

Process

1. Warnings

Certain violations or repeat violations are not subject to a warning or may be subject to immediate citation, as set forth in EXHIBIT A2. For violations of Rules that are subject to a warning, the Member shall be given the warning to correct the violation by phone call or email contact. If a Subscriber has repeat violations of Rules that are subject to a warning, the Subscriber’s supervising Participant shall receive notice of the third repeat violation by phone call or email contact. Any Member who, within a 12-month period, has been warned four times with the opportunity to correct for violations of Rules that are subject to a warning, shall receive an automatic fine for the fifth and subsequent violations within such 12-month period.

2. Citations

If a Member fails to correct a violation of these Rules that is subject to a warning within the time allotted in the warning, the citation for the offense shall be issued and shall become due and payable.

3. Citation Payment

If the Member fails to pay the citation (fine) within a 30-day period of invoice, a delinquency fee shall be assessed, and a delinquent notice shall be sent. If the total balance is not paid within 15 Days of the delinquent notice, BAREIS membership and MLS Privileges shall be suspended for that Member, in accordance with Rule 6.2.

4. Member Request for Appeal

Pursuant to Rule 17.1, “Citations,” a BAREIS Member may request an appeal for a Rules violation citation to the Rules Committee of the BAREIS Board of Directors (the “Board”). If the Member desires to appeal the citation, the Member shall pay the citation and administration fee, complete the MLS Rules Tutorial Course and Quiz and provide documentation together with a letter explaining why the fine was incorrectly levied. The request for appeal must be received by BAREIS within 14 Days of the notice of citation letter date (date postmarked or date of notification by electronic mail, facsimile transmission, or agent notice).

5. Member-Requested Appeal Hearing

If a Member timely makes a complete request, including payment of any required administration fees, to appeal the decision of the Rules Committee, as provided by Paragraph 4 of this Exhibit B, the Member shall be entitled to a final hearing by an Appeals Panel of the Board, which Appeals Panel shall consist of three Members of the Board, who shall be appointed by and who shall serve at the pleasure of the Chair of the Board. At the sole discretion of the Appeals Panel, the Appeals Panel may either hear the appeal by reviewing documentation only or request the Personal appearance of the appealing Member. The decision of any two Members of the Appeals Panel shall be final.

6. Board-Initiated Hearing

If any Member commits three violations within a 12-month period that result in either fines or warnings requiring corrections, the Board may, at its discretion, direct the Grievance Committee to review the Member’s record of fines and warnings, which may result in a disciplinary hearing for further action. If a Subscriber who is under the supervision of a single Participant commits four violations within a 12-month period that results in either fines or warnings requiring corrections, the Board may, at its discretion, direct the Grievance Committee to review the Participant’s record of fines and warnings, which may result in a disciplinary hearing for further action (See Rules 17.4.2(b) and 17.4.2 (c)).

Definitions of the terms, “Suspension,” “Termination,” “MLS Privileges,” and “Expulsion” are provided in EXHIBIT C “Definitions.”

BAREIS EXHIBIT C

DEFINITIONS

“Active” means a listing status in which a valid listing contract exists, and the Seller is accepting offers to Sell, Lease, or Exchange the property.

“Administrative User” has the meaning set forth in Rule 5.4

“Affiliate Member” means an individual or business entity who or which is neither a Real Estate Licensee nor a real estate appraiser, who or which can demonstrate a legitimate need for the information, and who or which may qualify, upon approval of the Board, to receive the MLS Data, on such terms and conditions as shall be determined by the Board.

“Appraiser” means a Member who is an Appraiser Participant or Appraiser Subscriber, without distinction.

“Appraiser Participant” has the meaning set forth in Rule 5.2.2.

“Appraiser Subscriber” has the meaning set forth in Rule 5.3.2.

“Auction Listing” means a listing in which the list price may or may not represent the price that the Seller is willing to accept even if an offer at the price submitted to the Seller satisfies all other terms of the listing; and if the listed property is not Closed by the expiration date specified in the listing, the property shall be offered for sale by the Seller at an auction pursuant to a bidding procedure specified by the Seller.

“BAREIS” has the meaning set forth in the Notice.

“BAREIS Affiliates” means BAREIS and its officers, directors, employees, agents, representatives, licensors, and shareholders

“Board” has the meaning set forth in Rule 1.

“Branding” means the inclusion of any content in photographs or images that can be used to identify any person or entity. Content that BAREIS may consider branding includes, but is not limited to promotional signage, logos, slogans, catchphrases, names of any person or entity, team names, contact information, and external links. Image metadata is not considered branding. (Rev. 08/12/2024)

“BREA” means the California Bureau of Real Estate Appraisers as set forth in Rule 7.2.

“Broker Participant” has the meaning set forth in Rule 5.2.1.

“Buyer” means a purchaser, lessee, or exchangee of real property.

“Buyer’s Broker” or “Buyer Broker” means a Broker Participant who acts in Cooperation with a Listing Broker to find or obtain a Buyer, lessee, or exchangee for property pursuant to California Business and Professions Code § 10000 et seq. Whenever these Rules refer to a “Buyer’s Broker” or “Buyer Broker” the term shall include the Subscriber acting for such Buyer’s Broker but shall not relieve such Buyer’s Broker of responsibility for the act or Rule specified. (Rev. 08/12/2024)

“Bylaws” has the meaning set forth in Rule 1. 

“CDOM” has the meaning set forth in Rule 9.22.4, except listings with a Sold off MLS status, which shall calculate from the list date or date a single party compensation agreement became effective.

“Certificate of Non-use” has the meaning set forth in Rule 7.4.

“Certification of Non-use” has the meaning set forth in Rule 6.1.7.

“Client” refers to a “Buyer” or a “Seller” in a real property transaction.

“Closed Sale” has the meaning set forth in Rule 9.19.4.

“Co-Listing Broker” means a Broker Participant who, in conjunction with another Listing Broker, has obtained a written listing agreement by which such Broker has been authorized to act as an agent to sell, lease or exchange real property or to find or obtain a Buyer, lessee or exchangee pursuant to California Civil Code § 1086. Whenever these Rules refer to a “Co-Listing Broker,” the term shall include any Subscriber acting for the Co-Listing Broker, but the Co-Listing Broker shall be responsible for such Subscriber’s acts or such Subscriber’s conforming to these Rules.

“Coming Soon” means a listing with a valid listing agreement that is not ready for an Active status in the MLS until a specified On-Market Date.

“Comparable MLS Data” means that portion of the MLS Data that includes the Off-Market MLS Data and “Closed” information regarding properties that are not currently for sale, as well as all indexes and other information relating to “Closed” listings.

“Comparable Sale” and “Comparable/Sold off MLS Listing” mean a listing with an accepted offer or Closed during an exclusion period or prior to the On-Market Date.

“Concession” means a form of inducement or incentive of value provided by a Seller to a Buyer in connection with the Buyer’s purchase, lease, or exchange of the Seller’s property, including payment of certain Buyer’s expenses relating to the Buyer’s purchase, lease or exchange of the Seller’s property, including acquisition costs or post-closing repairs of Seller’s property or improvements, such as all or a portion of Buyer’s closing costs or recording or escrow fees, financing or loan fees or costs, inspection costs, or survey or appraisal expense. (Rev. 09/30/2024) Concessions paid in a transaction, if any, are reported in the MLS by the Listing Broker when a listing is reported as Closed. In no event shall Concessions referenced in the MLS be limited to, or conditioned on, the retention of or payment to a Buyer Broker or other Buyer representative.

“Confidential Information” has the meaning set forth in Rule 12.2.1.

“Confidential MLS Data” has the meaning set forth in Rule 12.7.

“Contingent” has the meaning set forth in Rule 9.19.1.

“Cooperation” means the activity of a Broker Participant sharing information on one or more listed properties or making any such listed property available to other Broker Participants for showing to prospective Buyers when it is in the best interests of their respective Client(s), and “Cooperate” means the process by which a Broker Participant engages in Cooperation. Notwithstanding the generality of the forgoing, in no event shall “Cooperation” or “Cooperate” refer to, mean, or include any form of sharing, setting, or establishing any form of compensation, however determined, payable to any Buyer Broker. (Rev. 08/12/2024)

“Duplicate Listings” are MLS listings for the same property with the same Broker in an additional property category, area, or list price.

“Duplicate Withdrawn” means a listing was the second of 2 listings for a property that was entered into more than one property type or area. 

“Expired” means the listing reached its expiration date. 

“Expulsion” means Termination of (i) BAREIS membership rights, preferences, and privileges, including voting rights, and (ii) MLS Privileges, for a period of not less than one, but not more than three years, with reinstatement to membership only by application as a new Member after the end of the period of Expulsion, with the application considered by BAREIS on its merits.

“Filed with BAREIS” means any listing, change to a listing, information entered directly into the MLS Data by the Listing Broker, or listing information submitted for input or posting to the MLS Data on a listing input form (or listing change form) to be input by BAREIS staff if directed to do so by the Listing Broker. BAREIS does not retain a hard copy of the listing input form.

“IDX” means “Internet Data Exchange,” which is a Broker-to-Broker cooperative Internet advertising agreement that includes IDX Internet Data and IDX Enhanced Internet Data as referenced in Rule 14.4.

"IDX Internet Data" and "IDX Listings" mean Active and Contingent MLS Data approved under Rule 14.4 in which the "Pass to the Internet" flag is set to “Yes.”

"IDX Enhanced Internet Data" and "IDX Enhanced Listings" means IDX Internet Data plus Pending, certain other approved Off-Market MLS Data, and 180 Days of Closed MLS Data approved under Rule 14.4 in which the "Pass to the Internet" flag is set to “Yes.”

“Listing Broker” means a Broker Participant who has obtained a written listing agreement by which such Broker has been authorized to act as an agent to sell, lease or exchange real property or to find or obtain a Buyer, lessee, or exchangee pursuant to California Business and Professions Code § 10000 et seq (such agreement or arrangement being sometimes referred to in these Rules as a “listing”). Whenever these Rules refer to a “Listing Broker,” the term shall include any Subscriber acting for the Listing Broker but shall not relieve the Listing Broker of responsibility for the act or for conforming to the Rule specified. A Listing Broker’s “Own MLS Data” means, and shall be limited to, the MLS Data that is actually input into the MLS Data by the Listing Broker or the Listing Broker’s authorized agent. (Rev. 08/12/2024)

“Lockbox key” means either an electronic device or software provided through BAREIS that functions with the lockbox system as an electronic key.

“Media” means photographs or other images or virtual content, floor plans, Public Remarks, appraisal reports, or other intellectual property.

“Member” means a Member, as defined in the Bylaws, and, for purposes of these Rules, includes a Broker Participant, an Appraiser Participant, a Real Estate Subscriber, an Appraiser Subscriber or Affiliate Member, if any.

“MLS” has the meaning set forth in Rule 2.

“MLS Data” means all real estate listing information, data, attachments, and Media submitted by or for Members to BAREIS for posting on the MLS pursuant to these Rules, and membership roster information, as the foregoing may be modified from time to time by Members and governed in accordance with these Rules or supplemented by BAREIS or licensees of BAREIS in connection with the display of the MLS. 

“MLS Database” means (i) all the MLS Data; (ii) the federally copyrighted BAREIS compilation; (iii) all source code, object code, documentation, metadata, and computer software in electronic form used or stored by BAREIS in connection with the operation or maintenance of the MLS, regardless of whether owned, created, conceived or maintained by, or licensed by or to, BAREIS, including all copyrighted Media in such database; (iv) all BAREIS copyrighted, compilations of information, correspondence, documents and agreements, and designs; (v) all electronic drawings, files, formulae, lists, maps, methods, models, notes or other writings, plans, records, regulatory compliance procedures and reports, schematics, or specialized or technical data; (vi) all membership information, sign-on credential data, lockbox key, lockbox access, and cooperating codes; and (vii) all other electronic files and data maintained on computers that are owned by or licensed or leased to BAREIS.

“MLS Privileges” means all privileges and services provided by the MLS to any of its Members, including access to the MLS Data, lockbox privileges, and technical support, and the ability to submit new listings or extensions of current listings.

“Multiple Listing Service” means a facility of cooperation of agents and appraisers, operating through an intermediary that does not itself act as an agent or appraiser, through which agents establish express or implied legal relationships with respect to listed properties, or which may be used by agents and appraisers, pursuant to the rules of the service, to prepare market evaluations and appraisals of real property.

“Off-Market MLS Data” means that section of the MLS Data that includes listings of real property that are not currently listed for sale, as well as all indexes and other information relating to the historical listing inventory.

“On-Market Date” means the date a listing went Active on the MLS except listings with a Sold off MLS status.

“On-Market MLS Data” means that section of the MLS Data that includes listings of real property that are currently for sale, as well as all indexes and other information relating to the current listing inventory.

“Participant” has the meaning set forth in Rule 5.2.

“Pending” has the meaning set forth in Rule 9.19.2.

“Primary Service Area” refers to the following counties: Marin, Mendocino, Napa, Solano, and Sonoma. BAREIS accepts listings from all counties in the State of California.

“Private Remarks” has the meaning set forth in Rule 9.16.2.

“Public Remarks” has the meaning described in Rule 9.16.13. 

“Real Estate Broker” or “Broker” has the meaning set forth in Rule 5.2.1.

“Real Estate Licensee” means an individual who holds a valid California Department of Real Estate salesperson’s license.

“Real Estate Subscriber” has the meaning set forth in Rule 5.3.1.

“Rules” has the meaning set forth in the Notice.

“Remediable Violation” means a violation that can be corrected by the Member, such as completion of mandatory training, nonpayment of fees, or other curable violations.

“Sale” shall also refer to a lease or exchange of real property.

“Seller” means a principal or owner, lessor, or exchanger of real property.

“Sold off MLS” a Sold listing entered in the MLS as a Comparable Sale.

“Subscriber” has the meaning set forth in Rule 5.3.

“Suspension of Membership” or “Suspension” means suspension of (i) BAREIS membership rights, preferences, and privileges, including voting rights, and (ii) MLS Privileges, on terms and conditions stated for a period of time of not more than one year as determined by the applicable committee or Person authorized by the Board. In the event the Suspension is for a Remediable Violation, the Suspension shall be in effect for the period that the violation remains uncorrected. At the end of the applicable Suspension period, reinstatement of a suspended Member’s membership and MLS Privileges shall be automatic, provided that the Member is current on all amounts owed to BAREIS and has kept all fees current during the period of Suspension.

"Syndication" means a process by which a Member hires a vendor (the "Syndicator") to transmit the Member’s listings only to various internet sites approved by the Member to receive the Member’s data pursuant to Rule 14.1.

“Temporarily Off-Market” has the meaning set forth in Rule 10.3.

“Termination” means termination of (i) BAREIS membership rights, preferences, and privileges, including voting rights, and (ii) MLS Privileges, for an indefinite period of time without reinstatement to membership except by application as a new Member, with the application considered by BAREIS on its merits.

“Third Party” has the meaning set forth in Rule 14.6.

“VOW” has the meaning set forth in Rule 14.5.

“Withdrawn/Canceled” means the listing was Withdrawn from the MLS at the request of the Seller, and the listing agreement has been canceled. 

CERTAIN TERMS:

Unless the context otherwise requires, in these Rules: (i) words importing the singular number only shall include the plural and vice versa, and words importing the masculine gender shall include the feminine and neuter genders and vice versa; and (ii) the word “or” may be conjunctive or disjunctive similar to the term “and/or.” The use herein of the word “including,” “include” or “includes,” when following any general statement, term, or matter, shall not be construed to limit such statement, term, or matter to the specific items or matters set forth immediately following such word or to similar items or matters, whether or not nonlimiting language (such as “without limitation,” or “but not limited to,” or words of similar import) is used with reference thereto, but rather shall be deemed to refer to all other items or matters that could reasonably fall within the broadest possible scope of such general statement, term or matter. “Person” means any individual, partnership, corporation, association, joint stock company, limited liability company, trust, joint venture, unincorporated organization, or governmental entity (or any department, agency, or political subdivision thereof). 

Reference to any agreement, indenture, or other instrument in writing, including these Rules, means such agreement, indenture, or other instrument in writing as amended, modified, replaced, or supplemented from time to time. Reference to any statute shall be deemed to be a reference to such statute as amended, reenacted, or replaced from time to time. Time periods within which a payment is to be made or any other action is to be taken hereunder shall be calculated excluding the day on which the period commences and including the day on which the period ends, and whenever any payment to be made or action to be taken hereunder is required to be made or taken on a day other than a business day, such payment shall be made or action taken on the next following business day. The words “hereof,” “herein,” “hereunder” and similar terms in these Rules refer to these Rules as a whole and not to any particular provision of these Rules. Unless otherwise stated, any reference contained in these Rules to a "Section" refers to the provisions of these Rules, and any reference contained in these Rules to an “Exhibit” refers to an exhibit hereto that is hereby incorporated into these Rules.