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

Douglas Elliman agent deceived seller in dual agency deal: Lawsuit

A newly amended lawsuit alleges Douglas Elliman’s Florida operation failed to supervise its agents, one of whom is accused of committing forgery and fraud. Continue reading

Houlihan Lawrence attempt to toss dual agency lawsuit fails

New York’s highest state court is allowing a lawsuit against real estate brokerage Houlihan Lawrence to move forward, saying that establishing informed consent to dual agency requires more than a consumer’s signature on a disclosure form. Continue reading

Buyer’s side commission confusion? Survey shows alarming results

Nearly half of homesellers don’t realize they pay the buyer’s agent commission fee, according to a survey from flat-fee real estate referral service Clever Real Estate. Continue reading