Referral fees from so-called ‘paper brokerages’ including Zillow inflate commissions by $15B a year: CEO

Calling it a “kickback scheme,” HomeOpenly CEO Dmitry Shkipin told the FHFA to ban referral fees charged by online brokerages — including Zillow — that don’t actually buy and sell property. Continue reading

Arms race: Kris Lindahl sues broker over trademarked ‘open arms’ pose

Well-known Minnesota broker Kris Lindahl sued Canada-based RE/MAX broker Rob Golfi on Friday for using his signature ‘open arms’ pose. Lindahl is seeking undisclosed damages for alleged trademark infringement. Continue reading

RE/MAX sues its own broker for allegedly recruiting 41 agents to eXp

The real estate franchisor alleges half of the agents under Jimmy Dulin jumped ship to eXp at his prodding even though he was under contract with RE/MAX. The complaint alleges breach of contract, federal trademark infringement and unfair competition. Continue reading

Don’t @ me: @properties sues @mortgage, alleges ‘free riding’ on brand

Alleging “free riding” on brand, real estate brokerage @properties seeks injunction and payment of profits gained through alleged “unlawful conduct” against digital mortgage rival. Continue reading

EXp Realty sued for trademark infringement … by EXP Realty

Weeks after announcing an expansion into New York City, eXp Realty has been hit with a lawsuit by a very similarly named brokerage. Continue reading

Broker sues Sotheby’s rival for ‘cybersquatting,’ theft of name

If you’ve got a name that’s synonymous with your business, it might be a good idea to buy it as a domain name — if only to keep it away from your rivals. Continue reading