There is now a new policy on the real estate market as "pocket listings" have now been banned. The listings which covered private and exclusive listings was banned by BrightMLS which is the database that hosts information. Homes for sale must now be entered into the multiple listing service (MLS) within 24 hours of public marketing. The ban on the "pocket listings" will increase competition for homes in Northern Virginia as there are now fewer homes on the market which has left many buyers frustrated. The ban will also mean that agents and home sellers will not inadvertently discriminate against certain homebuyers. The MLS will enforce the policy in December and there will be significant fines if there are violations.
