MLS Violations

MLS integrity is a priority at ABoR. To assist MLS subscribers in following the Rules and Regulations, ABoR regularly communicates information regarding MLS rules in its publications, on Abor.com, during Lunch and Learn sessions and during office visits. Penalties are assigned to those who do not comply with the Rules and Regulations.

The rules most often overlooked by MLS subscribers are:

• Keeping PIN code with Supra keypad
• Unauthorized use of MLS tools
• Non-compliance of "Internet Remarks" policy
• Not including photos with listings
• Pending over four months
• Incorrect/incomplete information

Discovering MLS Violations

MLS violations are discovered in various ways. Regular reports are performed by ABoR staff, but peers are the best resource for detecting inconsistencies. If you discover a listing containing invalid information, please contact the listing agent or broker first. By working together, we can improve the quality of the MLS. Agents may also report violations to betterdata@abor.com or to the MLS staff at 512/454-7636. Reporting members remain anonymous.

Notice of MLS violation will be sent to the agent and broker by e-mail, U.S. mail or appropriate method within 10 days of discovery. Failure to correct the violation within the time frame indicated in the notice will result in additional fines.

Resolving a Fine

If you receive a fine for an MLS violation, there are three options for resolving the fine:

1. Pay the fine
• Pay online at Abor.com.
• Call ABoR at 512/454-7636 and pay with a credit card over the telephone.
• Mail your check or money order payment by check or money order, made payable to the Austin Board of REALTORS®, to ABoR, 10900 Stonelake Blvd., Suite A-100, Austin, Texas 78759-5826. Include the invoice number of the fine statement on the check or money order.


2. Attend a Lunch & Learn to clear an eligible fine. Subscribers may attend the Lunch and Learn workshop once in a 6 month period to dismiss a fine. Click here to register for the next Lunch and Learn workshop.



3. Appeal the fine. Send a letter, fax or e-mail to the ACTRIS Board of Directors stating your fine, the reason you should not be penalized, including any supporting documentation, and the invoice number. Your Designated REALTOR® must also sign the letter for the appeal to be valid.
• Mail: ACTRIS Board of Directors, c/o Beth Gatlin, ATTN: Fine Appeal, 10900 Stonelake Blvd. Ste. A-100, Austin, TX 78759-5826.
• Fax: 512/454-5369, To: ACTRIS Board of Directors, c/o Beth Gatlin.
• E-mail: betterdata@abor.com

Your fine appeal will be placed on the agenda to be reviewed at the next ACTRIS Board of Directors meeting. After the meeting, you will be notified in writing of the outcome of your fine appeal.