Rules Regulation Categories Archives

Understanding listing statuses ensures accuracy in MLS reporting, legal compliance, and a smooth experience for both buyers and sellers. This guide outlines the available NorthstarMLS statuses, how each one is defined, when to use them, and how they affect Days on Market. Proper use of statuses helps maintain data integrity and transparency and improves search…

This guide provides clarification for how to enter parking-related data in listings, including for condominium properties (see below). To ensure search accuracy and fair comparisons, only certain parking types should be entered in the field counts, with others noted elsewhere.  Field Definitions Garage Stalls The number of enclosed garage stalls. Garage stalls should be large…

Finished square footage is a key factor in property valuation, marketing, and appraisals. This guide outlines what qualifies as finished space, including ceiling height requirements and how to report secondary structures. Accurate reporting helps ensure compliance with MLS policy, legal standards, and the REALTOR® Code of Ethics. Always verify local code requirements with the appropriate…

This guide outlines the property styles available for NorthstarMLS listings, organized by category and building configuration. Use these classifications to ensure accurate representation of the property’s design and structure. Definitions Single-Family (SF) (SF) Single Family – A standalone home not part of a Common Interest Community (CIC) subject to MN Statute 515B.  If part of…

This guide outlines how to classify structures based on the number and arrangement of stories. Use these definitions to ensure consistent and accurate representation of property layout. Note that basements and walkout or tuck-under garages are not considered a story when determining structure classification. Definitions One Story A structure with only one level above ground….

The following guidance outlines how manufactured home listings should be entered, along with applicable definitions, best practices, and relevant regulatory resources. NorthstarMLS allows listings that include manufactured homes on real property or that are for sale on leased land. The MLS may not be used for the sale of manufactured homes that are not currently…

Owner is Agent must be disclosed under Listing Conditions field if the Owner of the property is the listing agent. Section 3.19 PARTICIPANT AS PRINCIPAL: If a Participant or any licensee (including licensed or certified appraisers) affiliated with a Participant has any ownership interest in a property, the listing of which is to be disseminated…

All living facilities on one level: The kitchen, living room, laundry room, a bathroom and at least one bedroom must be on the same floor.

Enter the square footage of the foundation.  Do not include attached structures such as porches, garages or similar.  A tuck-under garage may be included if it supports the home above it. A crawl space under an attached Garage would not be part of the foundation. For condos or townhomes with multiple units on the foundation, enter the…

Enter the legal municipality in this field.  This may be different than the postal city and should reflect the legal location of the property.  There is an approved exception for a property that is located in a Township.  If the municipality is a township, you have the option to select the Postal City for the…