Lime Rock Realty Social Media Policy

Social media has become an essential marketing tool for Lime Rock Realty, allowing us to reach a vast audience and showcase properties efficiently. However, in North Carolina, licensed real estate professionals must adhere to specific laws and regulations when posting on social platforms. Violating these laws can lead to disciplinary action by the North Carolina Real Estate Commission (NCREC). Here’s what you need to know to stay compliant with both Lime Rock Realty's social media policy as well as state law.

1. Include Proper Identification

North Carolina law requires that all advertising clearly identifies the real estate brokerage firm. When posting on social media, ensure that Lime Rock Realty's name is prominently displayed in ALL promotional content, including:

• Facebook and Instagram posts

• LinkedIn updates

• Twitter/X tweets

• TikTok or YouTube videos

Failure to properly identify your brokerage could result in penalties from the NCREC.

2. Avoid False or Misleading Advertising

In order to ensure that your social media posts meet lawful standards, please obtain approval prior to posting. All social media posts must be truthful and not misleading. This means:

• No exaggerated claims about a property’s features or value

• No promises of guaranteed results that cannot be backed up

• No misleading information about your experience, qualifications, or services

Any deceptive advertising can lead to fines or loss of licensure.

3. Disclose License Status

If you are a licensed real estate agent in North Carolina, your posts must make this clear. Use phrases such as “Licensed North Carolina Realtor” or “NC Real Estate Broker” in your bio or posts to ensure transparency. You can also use "NCRE# (input license number)".

4. Consent for Property Listings

Before advertising a property, you must have the seller’s written permission. This includes:

• Posting listing photos on Facebook or Instagram

• Sharing video tours on YouTube or TikTok

• Promoting properties in Facebook Marketplace

Once a listing agreement has been signed, we have express permission from the seller to advertise on social media. You MUST have written permission from a listing agent to advertise a listing from a firm other than Lime Rock Realty. Unauthorized advertising of a listing will result in disciplinary action.

5. Compliance with Fair Housing Laws

Social media posts must not violate Fair Housing laws. Avoid:

• Discriminatory language regarding race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or national origin

• Preferences or limitations that could be seen as exclusionary

• Targeting ads in a way that excludes protected groups

Lime Rock Realty and NCREC enforce these federal and state fair housing regulations strictly.

6. Keep Records of Advertising

North Carolina law requires agents to maintain records of all advertisements, including social media posts. Consider keeping:

• Screenshots of posts and comments

• Copies of ad campaign reports

• Email confirmations of approved content

This can serve as proof of compliance if ever questioned by the real estate commission.

For more information from the NCREC regarding social media, please see the following:

NCREC - GenUp 23-24 PDF

NCREC Bulletin - Think Before you Speak or Post

NC Realtors Q&A: Social Media VS IDX

Conclusion

Staying compliant with North Carolina’s real estate license laws when using social media is essential for protecting our business and reputation. By ensuring proper identification, truthful advertising, fair housing compliance, and record-keeping, you can use social media effectively while adhering to the law and to Lime Rock Realty's social media policy. Always stay updated with NCREC regulations to avoid legal pitfalls and maintain a successful real estate career in North Carolina.-