Commercial Network

A. Yes, the name of the real estate brokerage, as it appears on the license, must be displayed in any advertisement.

A. The use of incorrect license titles such as "licensed sales agent" or simply "broker" is inappropriate. Correct license titles include Real Estate Broker, Real Estate Associate Broker, and Real Estate Salesperson, whichever is applicable. Also, associate brokers and salespersons cannot use corporate officer titles (e.g.., president, vice president, etc...) in their advertisements. Corporate officer titles may be used only by the brokers of record.

A. While nicknames are permitted, a licensee’s full licensed name must also be included in the advertisement. Middle names and initials may be omitted. If a licensee uses only a nickname in advertisements, they would violate the regulations. An example of a proper advertisement using a nickname is: Susan (Sue) Smith.

A. Team Names" are allowed provided: 1) the full licensed name(s) of the "team members" are included in the "Team Name;" or 2) the "Team Name" is followed by: "at/of (full name of the brokerage)." The term “Team” must also appear in the name and using other terms such as "associate," "realty" or "group" is prohibited. While “Teams” may use their own logos, their advertisements must also contain the logo or name of their sponsoring brokerage.

A. Posting houses for sale or promoting yourself as a real estate licensee on Instagram, Facebook, or any other social media outlet, is considered an advertisement, and you must follow the New York State advertising regulations.  All of New York State’s advertising rules apply on social media, including identifying the name that appears on your license and your license type, your brokerage name, and your broker’s office address or office telephone number. Consider making sure your social media pages follow the New York Department of State Checklist of Real Estate Advertising, which is available here. LIBOR has also prepared a list of best practices to help members avoid legal issues while maintaining a strong social media presence.