Can Your Seller Client Tell You Not To Cooperate?

My seller told me not to cooperate with a particular firm regarding her listing. Can the seller do that?

Yes. While Article 3 of the Code of Ethics requires that REALTORS® cooperate with other brokers, there is an exception when cooperation is not in the client’s best interest. A seller’s demand not to cooperate with a firm or agent is a legitimate instruction regarding the sale of the property and could be viewed as meeting this exception. Be sure, however, that the decision not to cooperate originates from the seller and not you.

It’s a good idea to get this instruction in writing from the seller. Should brokers or agents from that particular firm call for a showing, you can inform them of the seller’s decision to restrict cooperation on this particular sale and follow up by sending written confirmation.