Bill > HB595

This bill modifies Missouri state law regarding real estate transactions and rental properties in two key sections. First, it revises requirements for brokerage services, mandating that designated real estate brokers must enter into written agreements with clients before engaging in various real estate activities, such as acting as a seller's agent, buyer's agent, dual agent, subagent, or transaction broker. The agreements must specify the broker's duties, responsibilities, and compensation terms. The bill also requires exclusive brokerage agreements to include specific minimum services like presenting offers, assisting in negotiations, and answering client questions. Second, the bill restricts local governments' abilities to regulate rental properties by preventing counties and cities from enacting ordinances that: control rent amounts, prohibit landlords from refusing tenants based on income source, limit landlords' tenant screening criteria, restrict security deposit amounts, or mandate tenant first-refusal rights. The bill does allow local governments to regulate their own properties, enter voluntary agreements about subsidized rentals, and maintain protections against discrimination against veterans receiving benefits. These changes aim to provide more clarity and flexibility in real estate transactions and rental property management across Missouri.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Government Affairs

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB595&year=2025&code=R