Inclusion of Realtor Agency on Blog

[griede]

Do you as a Real Estate blogger adhere to the same rules as outlined for Realtor web page submission?

I've noticed that there are quite a few Realtor blogs that not only do not indicate the name of the blogger but also obviously do not show the name of the agency that the blogger is affiliated with.

I believe, if not mistaken that NAR has stipulated that on Realtor websites, the Realtor now must not only have their name and agency clearly posted on the welcome page but also must include the Realtor's license number.

Since blogging is fairly new to cyberspace, have the rules just not been formed and what is your take on this issue?

Inquiring minds would like to know!

[webmaster]

Gena,
In terms of blogs, that really depends. If the blog is hosted as a part of the realtor domain, then I would imagine that the same principals apply to all pages of your site, blogs included.

[Ryan Ward]

Did I miss something? I have to include my real estate license number on my website? I don't mind - I just haven't heard that.

[webmaster]

I don't think it is an NAR thing, and I haven't heard of it either, but it may be for this particular member as a specific board consideration. I have seen rules vary drammatically from board to board.

[griede]

I stand corrected on whether or not it is NAR...I should have asked the question based on State Regs with each individual Real Estate by State such as California Association of Realtors, etc.

It is an interesting question, I feel since there are rulings at least in CA that an agent must identify themselves by addressing who they represent and then of course there is the issue of the agent's license #...don't know if this is merely for their business card or if it also is to be included on the web page. I think it's inclusive.

Now, the bigger question is how about the info on the blog of the agent...if it hasn't been established yet, I believe it will down the road as the State catches up with technology...

What's everyone's else's take on this?

[waynelong]

I don't think there are any NAR regs on this. In some states, GA being one, if you advertise property on anything (sign, website, newspaper) you must include the brokerage and their phone number. I am sure other states may have similar rules and possibly stricter rules but I don't think they are NAR rules. So, if I am advertising property on my blog I would have to include info about my brokerage. If I am just writing comments, etc. it would not be required.

[webmaster]

Sinse when have you had to publish your agent # on your website in california? This is new to me and I have over a hundred websites in Cali

[Sam Dodd]

I know in Utah with your website you have to have both your name and your agency clearly placed on your main/index page. As for blogs Im not sure. Thats a good question but I would rather not bring it up to find the anwser cause it could only mean more work for me.

[webmaster]

yeah but not your "but also must include the Realtor's license number" - that was a new one for me, I think this member has inaccurate information

[waynelong]

In GA the only place I know of that you must include your license number is on a contract.