Tech Corner
Are Your Ads Compliant?
Every advertisement you publish must follow NCREC License Law and Rules—specifically Rule A.0105, which governs how brokers advertise real estate and brokerage services.
Here’s what you need to know to stay compliant:
You Must Have Your Broker-in-Charge’s Consent Before Advertising
Rule A.0105 states:
Before advertising any brokerage service or any real estate for another person, you must obtain your Broker-in-Charge’s consent.
This applies to:
- Listing announcements
- “Coming soon” posts
- Open house flyers
- Market updates that mention your services
- Any social media content promoting your role as a broker
Every Ad Must Clearly Display Your Firm’s Name
Another key part of Rule A.0105:
Your advertisement must include the name of the firm or sole proprietorship you’re affiliated with.
This means:
- No posting ads that only show your personal branding
- No using just your name or logo without your firm’s name
- No “minimalist ads” that omit firm identification for aesthetic reasons
On social media, the firm name must be included in the actual ad content, not just in your bio or profile.
Never Advertise or Place a Sign Without Written Owner Permission
Under Rule A.0105, a broker cannot:
- Place a “For Sale” or “For Rent” sign
- Post a listing
- Promote a property online
…unless you have the owner’s written consent.
A verbal agreement is not enough—written permission protects everyone involved and ensures you are legally authorized to advertise the property.
Avoid Blind Ads—Your Ads Must Show You Are a Broker
A “blind ad” is any advertisement that suggests the offer is being made by the broker’s principal only.
Every such advertisement shall indicate that it is the advertisement of a broker or firm and shall not be confined to publication of only contact information, such as a post office box number, telephone number, street address, internet web address, or e-mail address.
Special Requirements for Limited Nonresident Commercial Brokers
If you are licensed as a Limited Nonresident Commercial Broker, Rule A.0105 requires that you also comply with Rule A.1809, which states: In all advertising involving a nonresident commercial licensee’s conduct as a North Carolina real estate broker and in any representation of such person’s licensure in North Carolina, the advertising or representation shall conspicuously identify the nonresident commercial licensee as a “Limited Nonresident Commercial Real Estate Broker.
Why This Matters
Non-compliant advertising, even unintentional mistakes, can result in disciplinary action from the Commission.
But the good news? Staying compliant is simple when you follow these core guidelines:
- Get BIC approval
- Include your firm’s name
- Obtain written owner permission
- Avoid blind ads
- Follow special rules if you’re a nonresident commercial broker
By aligning every advertisement with Rule A.0105, you protect your license and your reputation.