Last Updated: October, 2025
Clear Cooperation Policy 8.0
Clear Cooperation Policy 8.0, also known as CCP, was created by the National Association of Realtors® to protect cooperation among brokerages. Explore what Clear Cooperation Policy 8.0 means for you and your business below!
NAR® Policy 8.0 States:
Within one (1) business day of marketing a property to the public, the listing broker must submit the listing to the MLS for cooperation with other MLS participants.
Per Stellar MLS Rules and Regulations, public marketing includes:
- Flyers displayed in windows.
- Yard signs.
- Multi-brokerage listing sharing websites.
- Brokerage website displays (including IDX and VOW).
- Digital marketing on public websites.
- Digital communications (including emails).
Stellar's Exempt Listing Rule Highlights
If the owner(s) of record chooses not to permit the listing to be disseminated by Stellar MLS, the Participant must fill out the Multiple Listing Options for Property Owners Form and the listing agent/broker must upload the property as active into the Stellar MLS system using the applicable option per the seller's directive.
Should any public marketing of a property occur the listing agent/broker must submit the listing to the MLS for cooperation with other MLS participants within 1 business day.
How to Report a Violation
Use the "Report a Violation" Icon on your Stellar Portal
Since Stellar MLS can’t see every instance of rogue public marketing, we rely on you to let us know when other agents are violating the rules. Use your Stellar Portal to search for exclusion forms on file and to report violations when appropriate. Don't forget to snap a photo of the violation to be used as evidence in your report!
1 Day Rule
Within one (1) business day of marketing a property to the public, the listing broker must submit the listing to the MLS for cooperation with other MLS participants.
Optional Property Types for MLS Entry
Certain types of listings have the option to be excluded from the MLS, however, if a broker or agent chooses to input one of these optional listing types into the MLS, all MLS compliance rules and regulations are in effect.
Brokers and Agents Selling Their Personal Properties
Properties personally owned by individual Participants or Subscribers where the owner is the listing agent are optional. This does not apply to properties owned by a business entity.
Rentals
Brokers and agents do not have to input rental properties into the MLS. Still, if you input a rental property into the MLS, all Stellar Rules & Regulations are in effect.
New Construction
Brokers and agents do not have to input new construction properties into the MLS. Still, if you input a new construction property into the MLS, all Stellar Rules & Regulations are in effect.
Commercial Sale and Commercial Lease
Brokers and agents do not have to input commercial sale or lease properties into the MLS. Still, if you input a commercial property into the MLS, all Stellar Rules & Regulations are in effect.
Review the optional listing type rule: Stellar MLS Article 5.3: Optional Listing Types
Frequently Asked Questions About Clear Cooperation Policy 8.0
Last Updated: October 2025
CCP1: What is CCP, or the Clear Cooperation Policy?
CCP refers to the requirement that any listing not in the MLS be added within one business day of any public marketing. See Stellar MLS's Rules and Regulations for more information.
CCP2: If you have a delayed listing, but you put a sign in the front yard, do you then have to follow CCP?
Delayed distribution only applies to the distribution of the listing to other brokerage sites (e.g., IDX) or public third-party portals. A listing in the "delayed" period is considered active and can be marketed as such by the listing office without triggering CCP.
CCP3: Why was this policy approved?
Brokers and MLSs from across the country asked NAR to consider policy that will reinforce the consumer benefits of cooperation. The MLS creates an efficient marketplace and reinforces the pro-competitive, pro-consumer benefits that REALTORS® have long sought to support. After months of discussion and consideration within NAR’s MLS Technology and Emerging Issues Advisory Board, this proposal was brought forth for the industry to discuss and consider, then approved by NAR's Board of Directors.
CCP4: Who made the decision that this policy was needed?
NAR’s MLS Technology and Emerging Issues Advisory Board is made up of brokers and MLS executives from across the country. Two dozen volunteers review industry concerns from a wide range of business and regional viewpoints. Potential policy changes are discussed within the group to create a positive impact on the industry and to address broker needs within the marketplace. The policy was strongly supported by the NAR MLS Committee and the NAR Board of Directors.
CCP 5: Do ALL REALTOR® Association MLSs have to adopt the MLS Clear Cooperation Policy?
Yes. By establishing a national policy, it is mandatory that all REALTOR® Association MLSs adopt the policy and have the same consistent standard.
CCP6: What exclusive listings and property types are applicable under the new MLS Statement 8.0?
The obligations of Statement 8.0 were specifically adopted to address concerns with residential “for sale” exclusive listing contracts required to be filed with the service. Based on the Advisory Board’s discussions that did not include commercial properties, rental properties, and new construction developments with multiple properties (single family homes, condos, etc.) Those property types, and other exclusive listings that require mandatory submission, can be included in the application of Statement 8.0 at local discretion.
CCP7: Can a seller or the listing broker “opt out” of the policy’s obligations?
No. The new policy does not include an “opt out.” Any listing that is “publicly marketed” must be filed with the service and provided to other MLS Participants for cooperation within (1) one business day.
CCP8: Does Policy Statement 8.0 prohibit office exclusives?
No. "Office exclusive" listings are an important option for sellers concerned about privacy and wide exposure of their property being for sale. In an office exclusive listing, direct promotion of the listing between the brokers and licensees affiliated with the listing brokerage, and one-to-one promotion between these licensees and their clients, is not considered public advertising.
Common examples include divorce situations and celebrity clients. It allows the listing broker to market a property among the brokers and licensees affiliated with the listing brokerage. If office exclusive listings are displayed or advertised to the general public, however, those listings must also be submitted to the MLS for cooperation.
CCP9: Does Policy Statement 8.0 require listings to be submitted to the MLS if they are advertised to a select group of brokers outside the listing broker's office?
Yes. "Private listing networks" that include more brokers or licensees than those affiliated with the listing brokerage constitute public advertising or display pursuant to Policy Statement 8.0. Listings shared in multi-brokerage networks by participants must be submitted to the MLS for cooperation.
CCP10: Does Policy Statement 8.0 apply to non-active listings?
Yes. Policy Statement 8.0 applies to any listing that is or will be available for cooperation. Pursuant to Policy Statement 8.0, "coming soon" listings displayed or advertised to the public by a listing broker must be submitted to the MLS for cooperation with other participants.
CCP11: Does Policy Statement 8.0 apply if there is no listing agreement on file?
MLS compliance, including NAR® policy 8.0, is activated once a listing agreement is signed by all required parties. For scenarios in which no listing agreement is in place, Stellar MLS recommends that you consult with your broker and/or reach out to the Florida Realtors Legal Hotline for information if you suspect/or have concerns about a FREC/Code of Ethics violation.
CCP12: Does Policy Statement 8.0 require a broker to turn in every listing to the MLS within 24 hours of signing the listing?
No. Stellar MLS requires that a broker submit a listing within 5 business days of a signed listing agreement. If a listing is taken and is not yet ready to be marketed/shown, an Owners Exclusion Form must be filed. If a listing is marketed to the public, however, Policy Statement 8.0’s one business day turn-in timeline goes into effect.
CCP13: What is the meaning of “business day?”
Business days exclude Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. For consistency among all REALTOR® Association MLSs, the approved timeframe is 1 business day.; “holidays” include all recognized federal and state holidays.
CCP14: Is the new policy consistent with Article 3 of the NAR Code of Ethics?
Yes. By joining the MLS, Participants agree to be bound by the MLS Rules and Regulations. Per the policy’s rationale, the public marketing of a listing indicates that the MLS participant has concluded that cooperation with other MLS participants is in their client’s best interests.
CCP15: How does 8.0 apply to brokers/agents who are selling their personal properties?
Properties personally owned by individual Participants or Subscribers where the owner is the listing agent are optional. This does not apply to properties owned by a business entity.
CCP16: Can I advertise a property on third party websites?
The MLS exists to facilitate cooperation and compensation. If you choose to advertise a property without a listing agreement on third party websites your compensation and/or broker participation is not guaranteed.
CCP17: What if a bank or other 3rd party instructs me to put a sign up in order to stay in compliance with their requirements, am I violating Clear Cooperation?
Neither a seller nor bank, or any other 3rd party can direct an agent to break the MLS rules that all Participants and Subscribers must abide.
If there is a question for verification purposes, you may send the banks or 3rd parties the MLS rules, and they will adjust their requirements as needed. Banks are also being made aware of the Clear Cooperation policy from NAR.
CCP18: If an interested buyer comes to me as an agent during the exclusion period, can i show the property to them?
Yes, however showing the property while on a Temporary Exclusion would be considered public marketing and a Clear Cooperation “trigger” to enter the listing into the MLS within 1 business day.
The showing would not trigger the property to be entered into the MLS if the listing were an Office Exclusive, shown only to an internal client of the firm.
CCP19: Can I market my excluded listing on Social Media?
For properties that have exclusion forms filed with the MLS (Temporary or Office Exclusive), all forms of social media marketing during the exclusion time period violate the 8.0 policy.
CCP20: What if I have a commission agreement?
A commission agreement does not provide permission to market the property.
CCP21: Will Stellar MLS implement a coming soon status?
The Stellar MLS Board of Directors is currently exploring the feasibility and options for having a coming soon status.
CCP22: What fines will I be subject to for violating Policy 8.0?
Per Stellar MLS Rules and Regulations, violating Policy 8.0 is considered a level 3, severe fine. The level 3, severe fine structure is as follows:
- 1st Offense: $500
- 2nd Offense: $2,500
- Further offenses for same violation will result in a mandatory hearing before a board hearing panel with allowable maximum monetary penalty of up to $15,000, possible suspension/termination of MLS privileges and services and other provisions in accordance with MLS Rules and Regulations Article 11.
For more information on the Stellar MLS fine structure, view Article 11.4 here.
Delayed Distribution Updates
As of September 2025, NAR has adopted a new policy, Multiple Listing Options for Sellers, which exists in conjunction with Clear Cooperation and other MLS policies to provide sellers and their agents more options and choice when marketing a property, while also supporting fair housing by providing buyers and their agents with equal access to important MLS property information.
What's Changed:
Delayed Distribution Listings
In accordance with the Multiple Listing Options for Sellers policy recently adopted by NAR, Stellar MLS has adopted its own policy: Delayed Distribution Listings. A Delayed Distribution listing will delay public marketing by cooperating MLS Broker Participants and their agents (through IDX and syndication) for five calendar days.
Five Day Rule
Delayed Distribution listings will delay public marketing by cooperating MLS Broker Participants and their agents (through IDX and syndication) for five calendar days.
Requirements:
The property owner must sign the Multiple Listing Options for Property Owners form acknowledging their understanding of the MLS benefits they are waiving by delaying the distribution of their listing, such as broad and immediate public exposure of their listing through IDX/syndication sites.
The listing must be entered into Matrix within five business days of the contract date, or within one business day of public marketing.
The listing will not be included in distribution to IDX or syndication sites during the delay period.
During the Delayed Period:
The listing will remain searchable by any Stellar agent or broker.
The listing will be available on Virtual Office Websites (VOW).
Delayed listings can be included in saved searches, consumer emails and will be available on OneHome.
The listing office may market the listing in any manner, including display on the company’s website.
The listing will not be included in cooperating broker or agent IDX feeds and will not be displayed on their websites.
The listing will not be distributed to third-party portals such as Realtor.com.
Updates to Office Exclusives & Office Exclusives with Temporary Exclusion
As of September 16, 2025, Office Exclusive and Temporary Exclusion listings must be fully added to Matrix and the signed Authorization Form should be retained in your files.
To remain in compliance with MLS Rules and Regulations you must execute a new Multiple Options for Property Owners form with your seller(s) and retain it in your files.
Then, use the add/edit function to add your Office Exclusive or Owners Exclusion listing into Matrix, using the new fields provided.
MLS Listing Options Comparison:
Stellar MLS offers multiple listing options to allow our customers to best support homebuyers and sellers through every stage of their homeownership journey.
Please note that Office Exclusive, Temporary Exclusion, and Delayed Distribution listings must all be filed as a listing in the MLS, keeping them streamlined and compliant! When a listing is filed as an Office Exclusive, Temporary Exclusion, or Delayed Distribution, it will not be displayed on IDX and syndication platforms.
Please see the following chart to view the different action items and requirements for these listing types!
Who Can See Your Listings on the MLS?
Moving to Active in Matrix
Videos
We are committed to providing you the information you need, explore our delayed distribution video library below!
MLS Minisodes
Our MLS Minisode series is here to keep you informed—one bite-sized update at a time! Check back each week for new episodes designed to help you navigate the latest changes with ease.
Episode 1
01:49
What Does "Delayed" Mean?
Understanding the basics of delayed distribution and what it means for your listings.
Episode 2
01:52
What's Changing From Current Practices?
Explore the key changes and updates to current MLS practices.
Episode 3
01:43
What is the New Policy?
Learn about the new policy and how it impacts your workflow.
Episode 4
01:09
Timing - When Do These Changes Happen?
Important dates and timeline for implementation of new changes.
Episode 5
01:08
The "Why" Behind the Policy
Understanding the reasoning and benefits behind the policy changes.
Episode 6
01:24
Agent-Seller Conversations
Best practices for discussing these changes with your clients.
Episode 7
01:09
What Changes in Matrix and for Temporary Office Exclusives?
Technical updates to Matrix and handling of temporary office exclusives.
Episode 8
01:14
Training, Resources, and Wrap Up
Access training materials and resources to help with the transition.
Delayed Distribution Resources
Stellar MLS’s new Multiple Options for Property Owners Form is now available for use in accordance with
Stellar MLS Rules and Regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Delayed Distribution
Last Updated: October 2025
DD1: What does Delayed Distribution mean?
Upon seller approval, a listing may be added to the MLS as an active listing, but not distributed to broker/agent IDX websites or for third-party syndication during the MLS-defined delayed period of five days. During this period, the listing office may market the listing in any manner authorized by the seller, including on the office’s website.
DD2: What is the Stellar delayed marketing period? How many days maximum?
The delayed distribution (delayed marketing) period will be five business days long.
DD3: When does the new option for Delayed Distribution go into effect?
The Delayed Distribution process is expected to be launched/implemented on September 16, 2025, in advance of the September 30, 2025 mandate from NAR.
DD4: How are these changes different from the Owner's Authorization to temporarily exclude listings from the MLS?
A delayed listing will be fully visible and searchable as an active listing in Matrix, whereas an Office Exclusive with Temporary Exclusion is not available in the MLS for a temporary period designated by the seller. While both require a form authorizing the delayed or temporary exclusion, delayed listings are "active," and Office Exclusive with Temporary Exclusion are not yet in the MLS.
DD5: Does delayed mean that the listing would not go to agent/broker websites during the delay period?
The listing agent/office can certainly display a delayed listing on their own website(s) by adding it manually, though the listing will not be distributed to other broker/agent websites during the delayed period.
DD6: What type of marketing is allowed by the listing office when a property is in the delayed distribution/marketing period?
A delayed distribution listing is fully active in the MLS -- there are no restrictions on what marketing the listing office/agent can do.
DD7: If our office has a Delayed Distribution Listing, can the office or all the agents in my office post about an Open House on social media?
Your office can market a "delayed distribution" listing in any way you choose - remember, it's active in the MLS and can already be seen by all agents.
DD8: Can listings in a delayed status be included in emails?
Yes, delayed listings can be emailed, just as any other active listing in the system can be sent out. Remember, "delayed distribution" only applies to external syndication of listings via IDX and to sites such as Realtor.com.
DD9: Will customers be able to specifically search for these types of delayed listings in the MLS?
There will be no way to isolate and search on delayed listings - they are fully active listings in the MLS and will be designated as such. The only difference between a regular and delayed listing is the lack of distribution by the MLS to IDX and 3rd party syndication sites during the delayed period.
DD10: Can delayed distribution listings be entered now?
Stellar MLS does not have the system changes in place at this time. We will implement them on September 16, 2025.
DD11: How is displaying the delayed listing on your office website not considered "public marketing"?
Public marketing by the listing office IS allowed during the delay period, including posting on the company's website.
DD12: How is delayed distribution any different than "Internet = No?"
Internet=N is an indication that a listing is never to go out on the Internet while delayed distribution will be for a specific time frame only.
DD13: Will a delayed listing be on Realtor.com?
A delayed listing will not be sent to Realtor.com or any to any other syndication platforms (such as ListHub) by Stellar MLS. Should the seller desire the property to be on those sites, please inquire directly with the site to see if manually adding the listing is an option.
DD14: How will the new Delayed Distribution policy be enforced by Stellar?
Any listing added as Delayed Distribution must be accompanied by a form signed by the owner(s) approving use of the delayed period; agent must submit a copy of the form to the MLS compliance department within 24 hours of request for verification.
DD15: Can the delayed marketing period be extended?
The delayed marketing period cannot be extended as the listing is already fully active in Matrix. The end of the delayed period simply releases the listing for distribution on Broker/Agent IDX sites and 3rd parties such as Realtor.com.
DD16: Does a delayed distribution listing start the ADOM/CDOM as soon as its Active?
Yes, ADOM/CDOM begins calculating upon entry of a delayed distribution listing. Remember, it's fully active and available to all Stellar brokers and agents: it is on the market!
About Office Exclusives and Seller Waivers
OE/W1: When will Office Exclusives and Seller Temporary Waived Listings be required to be entered into the MLS? How will that work?
Beginning September 16, 2025, Office Exclusive and Office Exclusive with Temporary Exclusion (formerly Seller’s Waiver) listings must be fully added to Matrix.
The Add/Edit function in Matrix will provide the option will allow you to select Office Exclusive or Office Exclusive with Temporary Exclusion and enter the applicable exclusion period. All other required fields, along with at least one image, must be completed in accordance with current Rules and Regulations.
To avoid potential fines, this transition must be completed for each active listing with an authorization form on file by September 30, 2025.
OE/W2: If the seller has requested no marketing to other MLS agents or the public while final preparations are made for market entry, does the listing need to be entered into the MLS or just a waiver submitted to the MLS?
At this time, a Sellers Temporary Waiver Form is required to be uploaded within five business days of the contract signatures. When waived listings are mandated for full entry into the MLS, the same five day period will remain in effect, with the Waiver form signed but held unless a copy is requested by the MLS compliance department. Note: if any marketing occurs while on a temporary waiver, CCP is triggered, and the listing must be added within one business day to avoid penalties.
OE/W3: Can Office Exclusives with Temporary Exclusion and office exclusive listings be entered without photos? When adding temporary waived and office exclusive listings becomes mandatory, will a photo be required?
Yes, one exterior front photo will still be required.
OE/W4: Will Office Exclusives be on VOWs so that all MLS participants can see them?
Office Exclusives would only be seen by agents in the same office only. They will not be seen in the MLS or in VOWs.
OE/W5: Once Office Exclusives are mandated for entry, would they syndicate to our own websites?
Display of Office Exclusive listings on your website would be considered a violation of CCP.
OE/W6: Can a listing agent or broker call another agent or broker outside of their firm when a property is in Office Exclusive?
NAR clarified that broker-to-broker communication of an Office Exclusive is permitted.
OE/W7: Will entering an Office Exclusive with Temporary Exclusion trigger days-on-market (DOM)?
When an Office Exclusive with Temporary Exclusion or office exclusives are mandated for full entry (Sept. 16), DOM will calculate while a listing remains in one of those categories; however, if it is released to the MLS from either option, DOM will reset to Zero.
OE/W8: What forms will need to be signed?
The forms that will need to be signed, along with the owners' signature are: If the owner(s) desire to have their listing added as an Office Exclusive, a Temporary Waiver or a Delayed Listing, signatures/initials on Stellars form will be required of both the owner(s) and the listing broker. The updated form will be available in September. In the meantime, please use the existing form to file an Office Exclusive or a Sellers Temporary Waiver.
OE/W9: Can an Office Exclusive with Temporary Exclusion be entered into Matrix without a price? Often times we take listings months in advance and depending on what work the seller decides to do prior to going live on the market, that price may change.
When mandatory entry of Temporary Waivers goes into effect (September 2025), the listing will need to have a price entered in order to save the listing. That said, you can add any price you choose and also make a note in the remarks for the agents in your company with any notes/instructions. Of course, prior to releasing as an active listing, you will update the price, the remarks, etc. When a listing is moved from Office Exclusive (Temp Waiver) to active, the prior history will not be available to other firms/agents.
OE/W10: What is the penalty for not entering a temporarily excluded listing within 5 days? Listing input takes quite a bit of time and sometimes we don't have all the answers to required fields. Will all the normal fields be required? Or will it just be basics, like the address of the property?
Not entering any mandatory listing within 5 days of signatures is a violation of Stellar MLS rules and regulations. A listing will be required to be added as an Office Exclusive/Office Exclusive with Temporary Exclusion; the required fields will be the same as they are now. Keep in mind that adjustments/changes can be made to the listing during this period, and when ultimately released as an active listing, the history during the temporary waiver period will not be available to other firms/agents.
OE/W11: What is the best way to proceed with a listing if the property isn't ready to be shown?
First, take the listing! For now, have the owners sign a Temporary Waiver form and file that with Stellar within five business days, just as you do with regular listings. In September, you will still have the form signed, but you will add the listing into Matrix as an Office Exclusive and release it to "active" when the property is ready for showings.
OE/W12: Does adding a listing as an office exclusion or Office Exclusive with Temporary Exclusion jeopardize the instructions that the seller has given the listing office?
If the seller has identified their preference as an office exclusive, or as a temporary waiver to get the property ready to show, the mandatory entry into Matrix will keep that information limited to the listing office only, and therefore, there is no conflict with the seller's instructions.
OE/W13: Are Temporary Exclusive listings changing?
Yes. Temporary Exclusive listings will now be referred to as an Office Exclusive with Temporary Exclusion. The Stellar MLS team is working to update listing fields to reflect this update for the September 16, 2025, launch date.
OE/W14: What happens when an Office Exclusive is changed to sold?
When an Office Exclusive listing is marked as “Sold,” it will not be available for use in CMAs, appraisal reports, or distribution in IDX feeds until the Office Exclusive flag is removed.
General
G1: Can a home be listed and publicly marketed while preventing the listing from being included in VOWs and IDX websites?
A delayed listing will not be included in IDX feeds or syndication portals such as Realtor.com but will be included in VOWs. The only way to exclude a listing from VOWS or IDX is to select "Internet=No" during listing input, allowing for no distribution outside of the MLS system.
G2: What is Stellar MLS's rule on 'Coming Soon'?
Stellar MLS does not have a coming soon status. Marketing of a listing not already entered into the MLS will trigger CCP.
G3: Will a delayed listing be on Realtor.com?
A delayed listing will not be sent to Realtor.com or any to any other syndication platforms (such as ListHub) by Stellar MLS. Should the seller desire the property to be on those sites, please inquire directly with the site to see if manually adding the listing is an option.
G4: Customers have always been able to "toggle off" IDX/VOW, how is this any different from what we've been able to do?
The toggles for IDX and VOW are to indicate whether outside comments or AVM information can be displayed with the listing. The "Internet Y/N" field is the one that restricts all distribution outside of the MLS if "no" is selected.
G5: Are both the agent and the broker given a Level 3 penalty for violations of the CCP policy?
Non-compliant CCP violations are levied against the agent.
G6: How is delayed distribution any different than "Internet = No?"
Internet=N is an indication that a listing is never to go out on the Internet while delayed distribution will be for a specific time frame only.
G7: Will the VOW and IDX fields be changing in the MLS?
The VOW/IDX display comments and VOW/IDX/AVM will not change, as these are only relevant to comments and AVMS on those listings on those websites.
G8: Zillow states that listings marketed through delayed marketing or private exclusive networks will not be syndicated to Zillow once they are entered into the MLS. Is this accurate?
It is our understanding that listings entered into the MLS as “delayed distribution” (also referred to as delayed marketing), will be in compliance with their new policies. For further clarification on Zillow's policies regarding the display of listings on its sites, please refer to their website.
G9: Will there be a separate data feed that Brokerages will receive in order to add the Delayed Distribution listing to their sites? Or will this be a manual add by the Brokerage?
Brokers will not receive a special feed of the listings marked as "delayed distribution" in their office. These listings will be included in any data feeds that the broker already receives and can be manually added and featured on the company website.
Need Help?
If you have any questions or additional support, please contact us by email at: Support@StellarMLS.com.
Brokers: You can request a Stellar MLS office visit by emailing us at: Brokers@StellarMLS.com!
