Inside the lock-in effect: Cheap mortgages weigh on US consumers

Homeowners with at least a 5 percent mortgage rate are three times more likely to enter the market soon as those with a sub-3.5 percent rate, according to results from Inman-Dig Insights’ latest consumer poll. Continue reading

How commission changes could lead to transactional transparency

This journey is not without its challenges, broker Bob Mathew writes, but the rewards — enhanced transparency, consumer trust and a more competitive marketplace — are worth the effort. Continue reading

Empower homefront heroes with source of income freedom, fairness

This Memorial Day, Dr. Lee Davenport writes, in addition to words of gratitude and affirmation, it’s even more important that our veterans have access to affordable housing choices that accept their hard-earned benefits.  Continue reading

Keller Williams retreats on profit sharing cuts for defecting agents

The cuts, initially approved last summer, were set to go into effect this July. But as of this spring, Keller Williams was facing multiple class action lawsuits over the changes. Continue reading

What are you supposed to tell your clients now? The Download

In the face of so much rapid change and an often-frustrating lack of clarity from The Powers That Be, what the heck are you supposed to tell your buyers and sellers now? Continue reading

Redfin expands new compensation plan to agents in 25 more markets

With the expansion, Redfin Next is now available to agents in 36 markets nationwide, according to an announcement Friday. Redfin execs said the plan has “proven to be even better” than expected. Continue reading

7 reasons great real estate agents will always be needed

Now is the time to expand your skill set, broaden your knowledge and provide value at a higher level than you’ve ever provided, Jimmy Burgess writes, so that you won’t just survive, you’ll thrive. Continue reading

What should I tell clients? Question leads to free-for-all at NAR midyear

May 6 remarks from Anthony Lamacchia spurred at least one NAR midyear attendee to leave the MLS Forum in protest, others to hurl steering accusations, and NAR’s senior counsel to intervene. Continue reading

How to engage brokerage clients through SEO and content creation

Unique, engaging and highly specific content can make you a trusted resource for buyers and sellers locally and regionally, Chicago broker David Marden writes. Continue reading