Stand Up for Your Rights: What Sellers Need to Know About Buyer Agent Refusals

Canadians deserve a real estate experience free from outdated gatekeeping and unethical tactics.

At ComFree, we believe that Canadians deserve a fair, transparent, and commission-free alternative to the traditional real estate model. Our mission is to empower homeowners with the tools and education to take control of their home sale — and to keep more of their hard-earned equity.

But change doesn’t always come easy.

Across Canada, many ComFree sellers are encountering a troubling and illegal practice: some buyer agents are refusing to show ComFree listings, even when their clients are interested. This is not only a violation of professional ethics, it may also be an illegal anti-competitive practice — one that is currently under investigation by the Competition Bureau of Canada.

What’s Happening?

Some buyer agents are choosing to boycott or discourage buyers from viewing homes listed through ComFree because there is no automatic commission baked into the sale. Instead of respecting their client’s interests, they are putting their own financial gain first.

This is wrong. Here’s why:

It’s a Violation of CREA’s Rules

REALTORS® have a fiduciary obligation to their clients. 

All licensed REALTORS® in Canada are bound by the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) Cooperation Policy, which requires agents to cooperate with all other MLS® listings — regardless of commission offered.

The CREA policy clearly states:

“MLS® participants must not refuse to show or cooperate on any property listed on a board’s MLS® system.”

In plain terms: if your home is listed on the MLS®, other agents must show it if their buyer is interested.

It’s Under Federal Investigation

This issue has become so widespread that it is now under formal investigation by the Competition Bureau of Canada for potentially violating the Competition Act. Practices like steering clients away from certain listings, demanding upfront commissions, or refusing showings may be considered anti-competitive behavior.

You Have the Right to a Fair Sale

As a homeowner, you have every right to:

• Demand that your home be shown fairly to any interested buyer.
• Report unethical or non-compliant behavior from agents.
• Sell your home on your terms, without being bullied or manipulated.

How to Combat This as a ComFree Seller

Here’s how you can protect yourself and ensure your listing gets the attention it deserves:

Be Informed

Understand your rights. Agents cannot legally refuse to show your home just because you’re not offering a commission. Period.

Speak Up

If a buyer agent says they “won’t show ComFree listings” or insists on commission, ask:

• “Are you refusing to show my MLS® listing to your client?”
• “Are you putting your commission ahead of your client’s best interests?”

Let them know you are aware of CREA’s cooperation policy and the Competition Bureau’s ongoing investigation.

Document Everything

If an agent refuses to show your property or pressures you for commission:

• Get it in writing or note the time, date, and what was said.
• Contact your local real estate board to file a complaint.
• Let ComFree know — we’ll support you in escalating the issue.

Educate the Buyer

If you’re contacted by an interested buyer, let them know their agent is required to show the property. Encourage them to ask questions and consider their right to choose.

The Future of Real Estate Is Transparent, Fair & Commission-Free

The old system is being challenged — and for good reason. Sellers deserve options. Buyers deserve choice.

If you’re facing resistance from agents, know that you’re not alone — and you are in the right. Together, we’re reshaping the real estate landscape for the better.

Have questions or want help dealing with agent resistance?
Reach out to the ComFree team. We’re here to educate, support, and advocate for you every step of the way.