Why real estate is struggling to keep up with a rising US economy

The nation’s real gross domestic product grew at an annual rate of 2.8 percent in the third quarter of the year. But with falling sales and tapering price growth, agents could be forgiven for feeling left out. Continue reading

Edina Realty settles for $3.5M over ‘secret’ home warranty payments

The deal will refund buyers and sellers after the brokerage allegedly failed to disclose to its clients that it had received payments from Home Security of America to advertise HSA’s home warranties. Continue reading

With focus on mortgage business, Zillow launches ‘BuyAbility’ tool

Zillow releases a new “BuyAbility” tool it says helps consumers find homes they can actually afford to buy after accounting for more variables. Continue reading

RE/MAX’s Motto Mortgage bounces back with new offices

After seeing its open office count shrink this year for the first time ever, RE/MAX’s mortgage franchisor brings new offices online in Arizona, South Carolina and Michigan. Continue reading

The Keyes Company rolls out brand refresh ahead of 100th anniversary

The rebranding effort, a collaboration with Tiny Wins, a prominent agency known for clients such as Tony Robbins, Visa and CBRE, includes a fresh visual identity, advanced technology tools and a renewed commitment to customer-focused service. Continue reading

Corcoran Group enters nation’s capitol with new franchise

In welcoming Corcoran McEnearney to its network, the brand grows the number of Corcoran-affiliated agents by nearly 10 percent. The new company will have offices in D.C., Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia. Continue reading

NAR perks and lavish spending spotlight of New York Times report

Volunteer National Association of Realtors’ leaders received perks and payment that lawyers say could run afoul of US tax laws, according to an investigation by the Times published on Monday. Continue reading

Homie: NAR created a ‘weapon’ that it used to block competition

In the latest filing in its quest for damages, Utah-based discount brokerage Homie asserted NAR, KW, RE/MAX and others created and enforced rules that amounted to an illegal conspiracy. Continue reading

Mauricio Umansky: To be great, ‘you have to dare to be bad’

The Agency CEO this week predicted more change ahead for the real estate industry, said agents are angry, and argued in favor of raising the bar for obtaining a real estate license. Continue reading

Take the Inman Intel Index survey for November

The post-August-deadline adjustment period is drawing to a close and the next chapter is about to begin. Add your insights to the Inman Intel Index, real estate’s most ambitious monthly survey. Continue reading