Dear GMAR Members,
We’re seeing a lot of problems with REALTORS® advertising listings on social media. Please remember to include your firm name in a conspicuous manner in all of your advertising, especially on social media. Failure to do so could result in a $100 fine; and fines can increase to $500 for repeat offenses along with the violator’s name being published.
Already in 2021, the GMAR has handed out over 20 fines for failing to display a member’s firm name. One violator tried to justify not including their firm’s name in a Facebook ad, by saying, “I don’t want anyone to know I’m a REALTOR®.”
To comply with the Code of Ethics, advertisements must include:
- Your firm’s name, in a reasonable and readily apparent manner. (Standard of Practice 12-5).
- Your status as a real estate professional. (Article 12)
- On websites, the state where you hold a real estate license in a reasonable and readily apparent manner. (Standard of Practice 12-9).
- On websites, these disclosures may be made available via a link to a website that displays the required information. (Standard of Practice 12-5).
Speaking of social media, the GMAR has been focusing on keeping our social pages up to date with the latest news and events along with helpful industry related information that you can share with your network. We’ve created a 'Members Only' Facebook group where we post association news and events. You can use this page as a way to connect with fellow REALTORS® as well as reach out to the GMAR staff with any comments or questions. We also have an Instagram account with info you can use to push out to your clients.
Happy Passover and Happy Easter to everyone!
Courtney Stefaniak
2021 Chair of the Board
