What Is an IABS Form?
An IABS — Information About Brokerage Services — form is a Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) disclosure that explains how a real estate broker can represent buyers, sellers, or both. It’s a Texas-specific document. The Ontario equivalents are the RECO Information Guide and the TRESA-mandated written disclosure of brokerage representation — covering similar ground but under different rules.
What the IABS covers in Texas
The IABS explains the differences between buyer’s agent, seller’s agent, intermediary representation, and subagency under Texas law. It must be presented at the first substantive communication. It’s not a contract — it’s an information disclosure.
The Ontario equivalents
- RECO Information Guide: mandatory under TRESA; covers consumer rights and how representation works in Ontario.
- Buyer/Seller Representation Agreement: the actual contract between client and brokerage.
- Multiple Representation disclosure: required when the same brokerage represents both sides.
- Designated Representation disclosure: a TRESA-introduced concept allowing different agents within the same brokerage to represent each side.
Why this matters cross-border
Cross-border buyers familiar with U.S. forms sometimes ask their Ontario REALTOR® for an IABS — the right answer is to provide the equivalent Ontario disclosures. A REALTOR® who can’t explain the local equivalents is one to keep looking past.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do all states use IABS?
- No — it’s Texas-specific. Each U.S. state has its own brokerage disclosure regime.
- Is the RECO Information Guide mandatory?
- Yes, under TRESA — it must be provided to consumers in defined circumstances.
- Can I waive the disclosures?
- Generally no. Disclosures exist for consumer protection; brokerages cannot opt out.
Related Reading
Primary sources for jurisdictional facts:
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