The same statutes and rules in place today for print, television and radio advertising also apply to web pages. Brokers should review any web page advertising whether it is a web page sponsored by the brokerage or a privately designed web page for the business. Hays urges brokers to develop office policies on Internet activity including web pages. Those who don't may leave themselves vulnerable to violation of Oregon real estate license laws and federal regulations. Improperly worded ad copy could trigger a complaint concerning federal fair housing laws.
Hays also urges brokers to preview licensees' web pages.
In-house procedures should require licensees to submit any new web for broker approval before it is available to general public access, as well as prior approval of any changes made to an existing web page. It is also important to make external web page developers aware of advertising laws and requirements. According to Hays, applicable laws must be reviewed and revised accordingly to maintain pace with new technology and practices. In the meantime, licensees must abide by the current advertising laws. The broker had instructions from the owners to begin repairs to the property as soon as possible.