Watchdog calls for ban on sellers offering buyer agent commissions

In a new report alleging the majority of commissions are nearly identical in 35 U.S. cities, the Consumer Federation of America said offers to buyer agents should be legally prohibited. Continue reading

‘Highly uniform’ commissions designed to thwart competition: study

The Consumer Federation of America pushes for an end to the sharing of commissions between listing and buyer brokers to spur price competition. 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

NAR ‘cut a deal’ with Trump DOJ to undermine commission suits: CFA

The National Association of Realtors countered that the Consumer Federation of America’s assertions are “wrong and misleading” and “commissions are very much negotiable.” Continue reading

With new FTC chair, expect greater scrutiny on the real estate industry

Lina Khan’s appointment at the Federal Trade Commission last week appears to indicate the Biden administration plans to take an aggressive approach to antitrust regulation. 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

Consumer groups support REX suit against anti-rebate law

The Consumer Federation of America and the Oregon State Public Interest Research Group argue that prohibiting rebates to buyers and sellers stifles commission competition and harms consumers. Continue reading

Consumer watchdog calls out states for confusing agent disclosures

In a new study, the Consumer Federation of America calls real estate disclosures ‘confusing,’ and calls out agents for not doing enough to explain them. Continue reading

Joy, despair following vote on NAR’s pocket listing policy

Comments on the proposal have been split, with some suggesting the overwhelming majority vote may not represent the industry at large. Take this poll to share your opinion. Continue reading