How Showing Instructions Are Conveyed on the MLS

💡 Quick Answer

Showing instructions are conveyed through dedicated fields within the MLS listing. Buyer agents see these instructions directly in their MLS system or connected showing tools before scheduling a showing.

📌 The MLS Is the Source of Showing Instructions

Every MLS listing contains specific fields designed to hold showing instructions. These fields are separate from public remarks and are used exclusively for agent-to-agent communication.

The listing broker enters details such as availability, notice requirements, access method, and any special conditions directly into the MLS.

📌 Buyer Agents See Instructions Before Requesting a Showing

When a buyer agent views a listing inside the MLS, showing instructions appear alongside photos, property details, and listing agent information.

This allows agents to understand access rules immediately, without needing to call or email just to determine how showings are handled.

📌 Instructions Are Distributed Through Agent Tools

Showing instructions entered into the MLS are automatically distributed across agent-facing tools, including:

• MLS desktop dashboards
• Agent mobile apps
• Integrated showing-management platforms

In many markets, these instructions flow into automated scheduling tools such as ShowingTime or BrokerBay, where buyer agents can request appointments and receive confirmations based on the rules entered in the MLS.

Showing instructions are not displayed on public listing websites and remain visible only to licensed agents.

📌 Common Types of Showing Instructions

While the exact options vary by MLS, showing instructions typically include:

• Appointment required with defined time windows
• Go-and-show access
• Call or text before showing
• Use of an automated showing service
• Special restrictions such as pets or tenant occupancy

📌 Lockbox and Access Details Are Tied to Instructions

If a property uses a lockbox, the MLS typically indicates the lockbox type and access method. In many cases, access codes are released only after a showing request is approved.

This ensures that access follows the seller’s rules while maintaining property security.

📌 Updates Apply Instantly Across the MLS

When showing instructions are updated in the MLS, the changes take effect immediately. Buyer agents see the revised instructions the next time they view the listing.

There is no separate redistribution process — the MLS functions as a live system.

📌 Key Takeaway

Showing instructions are a core communication layer within the MLS. They ensure buyer agents understand how access works before requesting a showing, reducing friction and protecting sellers.

The MLS does not create showing rules — it simply conveys the instructions entered by the listing broker and distributes them to agent tools used during the showing process.