Broker/Manager News and Updates

Maryland Real Estate Commission Meeting – February 18, 2026

During the February business meeting, the Maryland Real Estate Commission took regulatory action, reviewed Commission operations, and received a presentation from the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), relevant to tenant-occupied properties following the implementation of the Renters’ Rights and Stabilization Act of 2024.

Continuing Education Late Fee and CE Course Approval Fee

Following the close of the public comment period referenced in January’s update, the Commission took final action, pending approval of the Secretary of Labor, on changes  to the fee schedule establishing a $75 continuing education late fee and setting the CE course approval fee for education providers at $25. Once approved by the Secretary and published in the Maryland Register, these changes will take effect.

Anonymous Advertising Complaints

Over the past 12 months, the Commission received 16 anonymous advertising complaints. All but one were able to be resolved with the licensee and their broker without having to go through the formal complaint process.

Advertising Checklist Update

The updated Advertising Checklist is in final formatting and graphics review and is expected to be uploaded to the Commission website once complete.

Presentation by DHCD - Tenant Right of First Refusal

The Commission heard a detailed presentation from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development regarding the tenant right of first refusal requirement for certain tenant-occupied residential rental properties of one to three units.

The presentation highlighted several common compliance issues seen in practice:

1. Owners listing properties without first providing the required 30-day notice
2. Failure to use the official state portal form
3. Confusion regarding what constitutes a market reasonable offer
4. Misunderstanding exemptions, including court-ordered sales, transfers to family members, and properties with four or more units
5. Sellers incorrectly assuming that real estate agents are legally responsible for compliance rather than the owner
6. Title companies declining to proceed with settlement when documentation of compliance is not provided
7. Misrepresentation of tenant occupancy status in transaction documents

DHCD emphasized that while the legal obligation rests with the property owner, real estate professionals are expected to understand the requirement and ensure their clients are aware of the process. Failure to comply can result in enforcement action and fines and may also delay settlement if documentation is not in place.

Training Available through DHCD

DHCD offers training for real estate offices, brokerages, associations, and title companies upon request. Offices that regularly handle tenant-occupied properties may wish to schedule a session to ensure compliance procedures are clearly understood.

DHCD Training Request Form

The next Maryland Real Estate Commission meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, March 18, 2026.