The federal Competition Bureau announced recently that it is investigating the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) in relation to two of the association’s rules and policies. They are: 

  1. Rules requiring that a listing member offer some level of compensation to the co-operating (buyer) member; and 
  2. The REALTOR® Cooperation Policy, which requires members to list a property on an MLS® System once the property has been publicly marketed. 

On October 3, the Bureau obtained a court order that requires CREA to produce records and information relevant to the investigation.  

Read the Competition Bureau’s news release on this matter. 

Please note that the Bureau has not reached any determinations or conclusions about either of the areas under investigation.

In response to this investigation, CREA released a statement

CREA’s statement

We are aware the Competition Bureau is investigating two of the Canadian Real Estate Association’s (CREA) rules and policies related to cooperating member broker compensation and the REALTOR® Cooperation Policy.

We are not aware of any determinations or conclusions made at this time. Rather, as part of its investigation, it’s typical for the Competition Bureau to seek a court order (as it is currently doing) to produce records and provide written responses. We’re cooperating with the Bureau as part of this investigation phase.

“CREA believes its rules and policies are both pro-competitive and pro-consumer, including by increasing transparency and helping REALTORS® better serve Canadian property buyers and sellers,” says James Mabey, CREA Chair.

CREA is proudly represented by more than 160,000 REALTORS® in nearly every community across the country. Our REALTOR® members are dedicated professionals who help Canadians through what is often the largest transactions in their life. Whether a first-time home buyer or downsizer, REALTORS® are driven by their care for their clients.

They know the benefits of an informed consumer and promote transparency and innovation within the industry. They use their collective voice to champion the interests of Canada’s property owners, buyers, sellers, and renters. And, they contribute to a cooperative tool known as MLS® Systems – efficient, collaborative marketplaces that help connect REALTORS® representing buyers and REALTORS® representing sellers – to the benefit of both REALTORS® and their clients.

“Our industry is built on a foundation of cooperation, expertise, and care. Every day, REALTORS® in every corner of this country are helping Canadians navigate their real estate aspirations and realities,” added Mabey. “As the world around continues to change – from our housing needs to the market and economic conditions – what REALTORS® stand for hasn’t. REALTORS® have and will continue to be there to support their clients through it all.”

Ongoing investigation

CREA asks all REALTORS® to refrain from commenting on this active investigation. You can refer any inquiries to CREA’s statement on their website

At GVR, we are in close contact with CREA regarding this issue and we will provide updates to our members as we learn more.