A Private Exclusive listing is an option you can use only when a seller specifically requests privacy. In most cases, this means they don’t want their home widely advertised or promoted. If a client chooses this option, their request must be documented in writing in the listing agreement. During listing entry, the listing broker will also need to confirm an attestation verifying that the seller requested privacy. It’s important to make sure your seller understands the difference between private and public marketing, and how each approach may impact the sale of their property.

Private Exclusive listings are available only for residential properties.

The listing is kept off the public market. The listing can still be viewed internally, meaning agents within the same office may be able to see it through their office data feed if they have a PDAP. Agents in the same office can also search for it in Matrix using the listing ID or property address. The listing broker, co-listing broker, and agents in the same listing office can view it in the My Listings widget on the Matrix dashboard.

Private Exclusive listings do not appear in other MLS data feeds while they are on market. You can share the listing one-to-one with other agents. This usually means reaching out directly to someone in your professional network or your client’s network. What you cannot do is publicly market the property. Some examples of public marketing include online advertising, social media posts, yard signs and open houses. If any public marketing occurs, the listing must be converted to a traditional Active listing, fully visible to the public.

Listing agents can move a Private Exclusive listing into full MLS visibility at any time. But once it’s made public, it cannot be switched back to Private Exclusive. After closing, it appears in the MLS with the same visiblity as any traditional sale.

Following these guidelines helps you stay compliant while still meeting your client’s needs.