RECA Updates RMS Standard. What changed?
What happened?
In a significant update from the Residential Real Estate Broker Industry Council, Chair Sano Stante conveyed a message detailing revisions to the Residential Measurement Standard (RMS) that will come into effect on January 1, 2024. The RMS, in place since 2015, has been instrumental in establishing a trustworthy benchmark for consumers comparing property measurements. Following an eight-year period of practical application, the Industry Council initiated a comprehensive review to assess the standard's effectiveness. The RMS Sub-Committee, comprising residential real estate licensees, Industry Council representatives, public members, associations, and measurement companies, was tasked with evaluating whether the RMS needed adjustments to better safeguard consumers and facilitate consistent property measurement by licensees.
After a meticulous review of industry experience with the RMS and extensive consultations with various trade associations, the Committee proposed minor enhancements. These recommendations primarily focus on improving the measurement protocols for semi-detached and townhouse properties and introducing a Below Grade Measurement Standard (BGMS) for more accurate comparisons. The Industry Council has duly accepted these recommendations, signifying a positive step forward in ensuring uniformity and relevance in property measurements.
A typical RMS Floor Plan, courtesy of Home Grown Listing Services, a company that provides detailed RMS Floor Plans
One notable change involves the measurement of semi-detached and townhouse properties, which, starting January 1, will utilize the exterior wall at the foundation. This adjustment aims to simplify the measuring process for licensees and enhance accuracy for consumers. Another significant addition is the BGMS, which addresses the absence of a standardized approach to measuring below-grade spaces. Although not mandatory when advertising living space, the BGMS offers a consistent standard for licensees opting to include additional below-grade measurements in property listings.
Stante, drawing on his experience as a practitioner, expressed confidence in the proposed changes, particularly emphasizing the practicality of the adjustments in the evolving market for semi-detached and townhouse properties in Alberta. Acknowledging the significance of consistent and relevant measurement standards, Home Grown Listing Services, a reliable provider of RMS measurements, is ready to assist clients in understanding and implementing these changes. The commitment to accuracy and reliability aligns with the Industry Council's mission to enhance consumer protection, industry integrity, and ease of business for licensees.
As the implementation date approaches, RECA’s experts, led by Stakeholder Engagement Manager Kristian Tzenov, will be available for presentations to brokerages, facilitating a smooth transition. Accompanying resources, webinars, and additional information will be progressively made available throughout the year.
As a company that specializes in providing accurate RMS measurements, Home Grown Listing Services is excited about these changes! We’ve been providing the Edmonton area with RMS floor plans and Real Estate Photography services since 2020. Our pricing is transparent and tailored to your needs, ensuring you get the best value, while not sacrificing quality.
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