BIC Tip #1058: Understanding the NAR Clear Cooperation Policy
As a REALTOR®, one of your most important responsibilities is ensuring compliance with the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Clear Cooperation Policy (CCP). This rule was created to promote fairness and transparency in the marketplace — and to make sure that every REALTOR® and their clients have equal access to listing opportunities.
What Does the Policy Require?
The CCP requires that any property listing be entered into the MLS within one business day of being publicly marketed. This ensures that listings are shared broadly and equitably with other REALTORS® and their clients.
What Counts as “Public Marketing”?
Public marketing isn’t limited to big advertising campaigns. It can be as simple as:
- Putting up a yard sign
- Distributing flyers
- Posting on social media
- Sending emails outside your brokerage
Any of these activities trigger the one-business-day requirement to enter the listing into the MLS.
What Doesn’t Count?
The policy does allow for one-to-one communications between agents. For example, talking to another broker directly about a listing doesn’t trigger the rule. But the moment you market the property in a way that reaches multiple brokerages, it’s considered public marketing — and CCP applies.
Why It Matters
The purpose of the CCP is simple: fair access and cooperation. Buyers deserve equal opportunities to view listings, and sellers benefit from exposure to the widest possible pool of buyers. By following this policy, REALTORS® protect both their clients and the integrity of the marketplace.
The Bottom Line
If you market a listing publicly in any way, you must submit it to the MLS within one business day. Staying compliant keeps you in good standing, builds trust with your clients, and ensures a level playing field across the industry.
Stay tuned for the next BIC Tip, where we’ll continue to explore the rules and best practices that keep our profession strong and trustworthy.
