Consumer Notice: Aggressive Marketing - Be Aware, Be Protected

Aggressive Marketing: Be Aware, Be Protected

Have you, or someone you know, been the target of aggressive real estate marketing?

The Real Estate Council of BC has received complaints in recent months about advertising and marketing techniques that appear to target vulnerable consumers. As a public protection agency, we take these allegations very seriously.

All licensed real estate professionals must comply with rules intended to ensure that consumers are not misled or confused by real estate advertising, and that any advertising claims they make are accurate.

If you’re concerned about aggressive advertising or predatory marketing that may be putting you, your family members, neighbours, or others you know at risk, there are steps you can take:

What You Can Do

• Voice your Opinion. If you receive unwelcome flyers, or unsolicited and intrusive phone calls or visits from a real estate agent, let the real estate brokerage know. All advertising by licensed real estate agents must include the name of the real estate brokerage where the agent is licensed. Speak with the managing broker at the brokerage and explain your concerns about their agent’s advertising or marketing techniques. Ask them to follow up with you about the steps they will be taking to address your concerns.
• Contact the Council. If the advertising, calls, or visits continue, or if someone you know is at risk because of unethical real estate marketing, contact the Council. You can use the Licensee Search on our website to confirm that the real estate agent is licensed. Let us know your concerns about the advertising or marketing that you or someone you know has received: info@recbc.ca | 604-683-9664 | 1-877-683-9664.
• Submit a Complaint. Find out about making a complaint. Learn more about how the Real Estate Council of BC protects consumers by investigating and disciplining licensed real estate professionals.

About the Real Estate Council of BC

The Real Estate Council of British Columbia protects real estate consumers by regulating the conduct of real estate professionals under the Real Estate Services Act.

We set the standards for the required education and training of real estate professionals, issue licences, and investigate complaints from members of the public. When a licensed real estate professional contravenes the Act, we may issue a fine, suspension, reprimand or licence cancellation, as appropriate.

This information is provided to you by the Real Estate Council of British Columbia (RECBC).

Your feedback is always welcome and can be sent to info@recbc.ca.