The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is the backbone of real estate transactions in the United States and several other countries. It is a centralized database that holds information about properties listed for sale. A well-crafted and accurate MLS listing can speed up the sales process, attract more buyers, and even increase the final sale price. However, errors in listings are surprisingly common and can hinder deals, confuse agents, and turn off potential clients. Below are the most common MLS listing mistakes and how to avoid them.
Error #1: Incorrect Pricing
One of the most common and costly mistakes is incorrect pricing. This could result from a simple data entry error (such as an extra zero or reversed digits) or a flawed property valuation.
How to prevent it:
Always double-check the price—triple-check if necessary. Use a comparative market analysis (CMA) to set a realistic price that reflects current market conditions. A licensed real estate agent or professional appraiser can help ensure accuracy.
Error #2: Poor or Missing Photos
Photos play a vital role in grabbing attention. Many listings either lack photos entirely or include poor-quality images, significantly reducing buyer interest.
How to prevent it:
Invest in professional photography. Images should be sharp, well-lit, and highlight all major features of the property—exterior, kitchen, bedrooms, bathrooms, and yard. Make sure the photos reflect the current state of the home.
Error #3: Inaccurate or Outdated Information
If the listing includes incorrect details—such as the wrong number of rooms, inaccurate square footage, or outdated features—it can cause confusion and even lead to legal issues.
How to prevent it:
Verify all information before publishing. Cross-reference with the property deed, floor plans, or public records. Update the listing immediately if any changes occur, such as renovations or modifications.
Error #4: Generic or Vague Descriptions
Listings that say things like “cozy home in a great neighborhood” don’t provide valuable information. Buyers want specifics and unique selling points.
How to prevent it:
Highlight the property’s strengths: layout, views, modern features, energy efficiency, proximity to schools or transportation. Use clear, engaging, and professional language. Be informative without being wordy.
Error #5: Incorrect Property Details
Incorrect data regarding square footage, year built, heating type, or energy rating can lead to buyer dissatisfaction or legal complications.
How to prevent it:
Rely on official documentation such as building plans or tax records. Verify key facts during the listing creation, before publishing, and during any updates.
Error #6: Ignoring SEO and Structure
Many agents overlook the benefits of search engine optimization (SEO), reducing a listing’s visibility on aggregator websites. This is especially problematic for listings that are syndicated across multiple platforms.
How to prevent it:
Include keywords in the description—neighborhood name, property type, unique features (e.g., “ocean view home,” “close to subway,” “new construction”). Use subheadings and bullet points to make the text easy to scan.
Error #7: Missing Legal and Ownership Information
Listings that omit details about property rights, HOA restrictions, or tax obligations can frustrate buyers or cause deals to fall through late in the process.
How to prevent it:
Disclose whether the property is owner-occupied, tenant-occupied, or subject to any encumbrances. Mention applicable homeowners’ association rules (such as CC&Rs), and indicate property tax amounts. Transparency builds trust.
Error #8: Incorrect Map Location
Sometimes listings show properties in the wrong neighborhood or provide inaccurate map pins, especially if automated tools are used. This misleads buyers and complicates property searches.
How to prevent it:
Manually check the map location. Verify the address using GPS coordinates and test the location in various mapping services. If the property lies near a boundary, clarify this in the description.
Error #9: Outdated or Incorrect Contact Information
If a phone number or email is incorrect, potential buyers may not be able to get in touch. This is particularly common when the listing is reassigned to another agent and contact info isn’t updated.
How to prevent it:
Ensure that all contact details are current and error-free. Include multiple communication options if possible—phone, email, messaging apps. Test them periodically to confirm functionality.
Error #10: Failure to Update Listing Status
Listings that are sold, under contract, or withdrawn but still appear as active create confusion and frustration among buyers and other agents.
How to prevent it:
Update listing statuses promptly. Whether it’s a price reduction, accepted offer, or withdrawal from the market, make these changes in the MLS as soon as they occur. Keep an eye on expiration dates and refresh listings when needed.
Conclusion
Mistakes in MLS listings can cost agents and sellers time, money, and credibility. A clear, accurate, and visually appealing listing is essential for a successful transaction. Every detail matters—from pricing to descriptions to photos. Using checklists, establishing internal review procedures, and maintaining up-to-date information are key strategies to avoid costly errors. In a competitive real estate market, attention to detail may be the deciding factor that attracts the right buyer and closes the deal.
