In a recent article, Arizona REALTORS® Associate Counsel Nikki Salgat noted, “While social media can be ideal for building and maintaining business and relationships, it can also prove dangerous and detrimental.”

In addition to the concerns she raised, here are two other things to watch for with Facebook, as well as other social media platforms:

  • Inadvertently violating ADRE advertising rules, or
  • Losing your social media account for misuse.

With advertising, remember that the Arizona Department of Real Estate Commissioner’s Rules govern how you advertise. Make sure that your social media posts comply with guidelines for prominent identification of your employing broker, accurate claims and use of trade names. Real Estate Advertising Rules & Guidance is a good place to start in reviewing your social media use.

Also, be aware that some social media channels have special requirements for business use of their system. For example, Facebook personal profiles are non-commercial and are the wrong place for any sort of advertising. Instead, Facebook offers Pages linked with your profile for promoting your business. Be sure you are using social according to each individual system’s requirements.

Always be aware that the “social” in social media means that anything you do or say is public. Even if you discuss something on private sites or within private groups, others can copy and send your messages to others outside the group. Use social media carefully!

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