In most cases, you cannot sign the listing documents on behalf of the property owner unless you have specific legal authority to do so. MLS rules are quite strict regarding signatures, and they generally require that all documents be signed by the actual property owners listed on the tax or county records.

Detailed Explanation

1. MLS Requirements:

   • MLS systems typically require that the listing documents be signed by the property owner(s) who are officially recognized on the tax or county records. This is to ensure that the person listing the property has the legal right to do so.

2. Power of Attorney (POA):

   • While a Power of Attorney (POA) could theoretically allow someone to sign on behalf of the owner, most MLSs and real estate agents do not accept POA documents. This is because they prefer to avoid potential legal complications and ensure that the true owner’s intentions are clearly represented.

3. Recommendation:

   • It is highly recommended to obtain signatures directly from the property owners. This helps avoid any issues with the MLS or potential legal disputes down the line. Ensuring that the actual owners are signing the documents maintains transparency and aligns with MLS requirements.

4. If You Are Assisting the Owner:

   • When you sign up on Houzeo on the owner’s behalf, you can register your account with your primary phone number. This number will be published on the MLS as the first point of contact for inquiries and showings. This way, all inquiries from buyer agents regarding showings and questions will be directed to you. This allows you to assist in the process without overstepping legal boundaries regarding signatures.

Example Scenario

Imagine you are helping a family member or a friend list their property, but they are unavailable to sign the documents. While it might seem convenient to sign on their behalf, it’s important to follow the correct procedure:

• Obtain Owner’s Signature: Ensure that the actual owner, as listed on the tax records, signs all the necessary documentation. The best part is that all the documents will be signed electronically if you choose the Houzeo platform to list the property. This can be particularly convenient if the owner is not physically present.
• Use Your Contact Information: If you are managing the listing on their behalf, make sure your phone number is registered during the signup process and is published in the MLS as the primary contact. This ensures you can handle communications with potential buyers and agents while staying compliant with MLS rules.

Conclusion

In summary, it is generally not permitted to sign listing documents on behalf of the property owner unless you have legal authority, which most MLS systems and agents do not accept. The best practice is to obtain the owner’s signature directly, using electronic signatures through the Houzeo platform, and ensure your contact information is used as the first point of contact on the MLS if you are assisting with the sale. This approach ensures compliance with MLS rules and avoids any potential legal issues.