General information only: rules, fees, tax treatment, and processes can change. Confirm current requirements with the applicable regulator or a qualified legal, tax, financial, immigration, or compliance adviser.
Key Takeaways
- TRESA is the Ontario law that governs real estate brokerages, brokers, and salespersons; its current regime took effect on December 1, 2023.
- Before providing services such as showing a property or preparing an offer for a buyer, a registrant generally needs a written representation agreement.
- The agreement should make the relationship, scope, term, and remuneration understandable before a client signs.
- Designated representation and multiple representation are different arrangements; ask which one applies if the same brokerage is involved on both sides.
The short answer
TRESA sets the rules for Ontario real estate brokerages and registrants. Use RECO's current consumer guidance to check how those rules apply to the service you are considering.
This article is general information, not legal, tax, financial, immigration, or compliance advice. Confirm current requirements with the relevant official authority and qualified advisers.
The short answer: TRESA sets the relationship rules
The Trust in Real Estate Services Act, 2002 (TRESA) is Ontario's framework for real estate services. It replaced REBBA on December 1, 2023, and is administered by the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO). For a consumer, the practical change is clearer information about who represents whom, what services are covered, and how the relationship ends.
- The brokerage and registrant must explain the representation relationship.
- Written agreements describe services, scope, term, and remuneration.
- Conflicts such as a brokerage representing both sides must be addressed in the prescribed way.
What to read before signing
Read the agreement as a contract, not as a formality. Confirm the start and end dates, geographic area, property type, exclusivity, services promised, and what happens if another brokerage offers or receives remuneration. Ask for an explanation of any clause you cannot restate in your own words.
When to verify the answer
TRESA rules and RECO guidance can change. Use RECO's consumer resources and the current regulation or agreement supplied by your brokerage for the applicable facts. A real estate lawyer can advise on your specific contract or dispute.