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MLS Character Limits: A Complete Guide

Every MLS has different requirements. We've compiled the definitive guide to character limits across major MLS systems.

SM

Sarah Mitchell

Content Strategist

January 5, 20264 min read

Nothing is more frustrating than crafting the perfect listing description only to find it gets truncated by your MLS. We've compiled character limits for major MLS systems so you can write with confidence.

Major MLS Character Limits

Bright MLS (Mid-Atlantic)

  • Public Remarks: 4,000 characters
  • Private Remarks: 1,000 characters
  • CRMLS (California)

  • Public Remarks: 1,500 characters
  • Private Remarks: 500 characters
  • Stellar MLS (Florida)

  • Public Remarks: 2,000 characters
  • Private Remarks: 1,000 characters
  • NWMLS (Pacific Northwest)

  • Public Remarks: 4,000 characters
  • Private Remarks: 500 characters
  • MRED (Midwest)

  • Public Remarks: 5,000 characters
  • Private Remarks: 1,000 characters
  • HAR (Houston)

  • Public Remarks: 4,000 characters
  • Private Remarks: 1,500 characters
  • Tips for Working Within Limits

    1. Front-Load Important Information

    If your description might get truncated on third-party sites (Zillow, Realtor.com), put the most compelling information in the first 200 characters.

    2. Use Curb's Character Counter

    When you generate a description with Curb, we show you the exact character count. You can also set your target MLS in your profile for automatic length optimization.

    3. Prioritize Features

    When space is tight, prioritize:

  • Unique selling points
  • Recent updates/renovations
  • Location highlights
  • Standard features (only if space allows)
  • 4. Avoid Filler Words

    Space-wasting phrases to cut:

  • "This home features..." (just list the feature)
  • "You'll love the..." (show, don't tell)
  • "One of a kind" (unless truly unique)
  • 5. Strategic Abbreviations

    Acceptable abbreviations for tight limits:

  • BR = Bedroom
  • BA = Bathroom
  • SF/sqft = Square feet
  • W/D = Washer/Dryer
  • A/C = Air conditioning
  • Curb's MLS Optimization

    Pro tip: Curb Pro and Agency users can set their default MLS in settings. We'll automatically optimize description length and format for your specific MLS requirements.

    Have an MLS we haven't covered? Let us know at support@curb.io and we'll add it to our database.

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