What happens if the DOJ kills cooperation and compensation on the MLS?

Given how slowly change takes place in the real estate industry, any change in compensation may be years off, says author and coach Bernice Ross. On the other hand, if the DOJ were to force the end of the shared compensation, the industry will have to … Continue reading

RE/MAX urges NAR to reject listing attribution proposal entirely

The real estate franchisor says giving the listing brokerage equal billing would cause consumer confusion. Continue reading

Consumer watchdog: The real estate industry regulates itself

A report from the Consumer Federation of America found that the vast majority of seats on state real estate commissions are held by industry members, and not one is held by a consumer or housing advocate. Continue reading

Your listing presentation makes me look bad. Stop shading your competition

The best thing we can do for our businesses and for each other is to be honest about the services we provide, how we work and even how the industry itself works. We need to promote our services without suggesting that the competition is greedy, incompe… Continue reading

Why office exclusives are not a good look for the industry

When there is a huge competition and a surplus of real estate agents, we tend to start fighting each other. Here’s why the concepts of office exclusives, designated agency and double-dipping are a big no-no to this broker. Continue reading

Top Agent Network takes aim at office exclusives in NAR pocket listing policy

Top Agent Network argues that office exclusives result in less inventory, less exposure for listings and less consumer choice while benefitting large brokerages. Continue reading

‘Double-dipping agents’ overcharge consumers billions in commissions

Consumer watchdog says dual agency should be banned, but double-ending should not be so long as agents discount their commission and act as facilitators. Continue reading

Pocket listings are bad for consumers — period

The MLS functions because of bilateral cooperation and compensation. You have to “pay to play,” and you pay by providing your listings. You can’t just take from the MLS without giving back. Continue reading

Tales from the field: A mishandled dual agency and iBuying fail

Welcome to our new recurring column, “Tales from the field.” Sourced from various pros all over the country, these short stories recount what agents are seeing on the front lines and what others can learn from them. This week, broker-owner Laurie Westo… Continue reading

Cut the crap: NAR lawsuit is good for consumers

Regardless of the outcome of the mega lawsuit, the sunshine from this legal assault will force the industry to clean up its act. Savvy and progressive industry leaders are using this moment to break from the past and lift the veil of secrecy for consum… Continue reading