New rule asks visitors to sign in at open house
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA (Sept. 17, 2024) — With recent changes in the real estate industry, driven in part by litigation involving the National Association of Realtors (NAR), many brokerages are adjusting their practices. One key change is the request for buyers to sign in when attending open houses.
One of the terms of the NAR settlement is that agents working with a buyer must enter into a written agreement with the buyer before the buyer tours any home with that agent. Often times, buyers attend open houses without their agent.
Previously, open houses were often a casual affair, where signing in was optional. However, as the industry evolves, most brokerages are now asking potential buyers to provide their contact information and the information for their real estate agent, if the buyer has one, at open house events. This shift helps ensure compliance with new legal standards and protects both buyers and sellers.
The open house sign-in form created by the California Association of Realtors states that the agent holding the property open is either the listing agent or has been delegated by the listing agent. It also lets a buyer know that the agent holding the property open is not working with the buyer visiting the property, and that any communication or sharing of information by the agent is in service of the seller and is not intended to create an agency relationship with the buyer.
By requesting sign-ins during an open house, brokerages are better equipped to follow up with interested parties and/or their agents while maintaining clear communication with all parties.
So, if you’re planning to attend an open house, expect to be asked to sign in. It’s a small step that plays a big role in protecting transparency in the real estate experience.
Send questions and comments for Jennifer Stojanovich to jennifer@bhrbroker.com.
Read more “Close to Home” column’s.
Jennifer Stojanovich
Jennifer Stojanovich is a seasoned real estate professional with over 20 years of experience. She is the broker and owner of Better Homes Realty of Clayton, a leading real estate firm in the area. Raised in Clayton/Concord, she has deep roots in the community and currently resides in Clayton with her husband, three children, and two dogs.
A graduate of Clayton Valley High School and Sacramento State University, Jennifer began her career in sales and marketing at Hewlett Packard Company, where she spent a decade excelling and earning numerous awards for her outstanding performance. She joined Better Homes Realty in 2004, leveraging her extensive sales and marketing experience to build a strong and successful team. In 2011, she obtained her broker's license and has since specialized in traditional sales for both buyers and sellers.
Outside of her professional life, Jennifer enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, hiking, camping, and cheering on her kids at their sports games. Her dedication to her clients and community is evident in her work and personal life.