On this episode of Industry Relations Rob and Greg discuss, for what seems to be the 17th time, the current rumors about the Clear Cooperation Policy. Rob recently posted a few thoughts on the subject and a few solutions to what seems to have the entire industry tied up in knots.  What they soon realize, there are no easy answers. Watch us on YouTube! Connect with Rob and Greg:  Rob’s Website Greg’s Website Our Sponsors:  CoreLogic Notorious VIP The Giant Steps Job Board This podcast...

Rob and Greg are back to their regularly scheduled broadcast!  The episode includes discussion on Landian, the new “a la carte” brokerage launched by Josh Sitzer, yes, that Sitzer.  Rob discusses his recent Sub Stack post on “Amara’s Law and Real Estate” and how we shouldn’t read too much in to how things are going with the NAR settlement.  The boys also discuss online dating, new business models, capitalism and agent count.  But somehow they bring it all together.  Watch us on You Tube! ...

Greg joins Rob from Chicago where he was attending NAR's iOi Summit.  Greg gives his experience of being at the iOi Summit and discusses the pitch battle and his favorite new app, Tuesday, and its founder Cole Boyer who won "Crowd Favorite". They go on to discuss NAR's decision to appoint Nykia Wright as their new CEO and if experience in organized real estate or connections in Washington D.C. really matter.  As you can imgaine Greg and Rob have different opinions. They finish with...

Rob and Greg teamed up with James Dwiggins and Keith Robinson from the Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered podcast during the recent Inman Connect Las Vegas event. From the complexities of forms and commission sharing, to the pros and cons of state association forms, the guys got into it.   They explored the potential for conspiracy charges in a post-settlement world and discussed the unintended consequences of recent MLS changes.   They also tackled determining property value without...

Are you up to date on the recent changes in MLS rules and buyer agency agreements? In this episode, Rob and Greg dive into the controversy surrounding these updates and discuss the ethical implications for agents. From forgery to enforcement, confusion to challenges, this conversation covers a lot of ground. They shed light on the need for a substantive approach to reform in the real estate industry, while addressing the loss of trust between practitioners and those making the rules. With...

Are you a real estate broker or agent grappling with the NAR settlement's requirement for written buyer agreements before showings? Rob and Greg dive deep into the controversy, debating the pros and cons of charging clients and exploring the potential consequences of non-compliance. They also discuss the evolving role of listing agents, the ethical dilemmas of dual agency, and the challenges of enforcing the new rules.  Link to Melissa from Twitter Listen to the Industry Relations Podcast,...

The August 17th deadline is almost here, and the industry is abuzz with talk of potential changes to MLSs and associations. Rob and Greg discuss the latest developments in the NAR settlement with the DOJ and its potential impact on compensation models, forms, and client relationships. With disruption looming, they delve into the hot topic of buyer agent commissions and agreements, as well as how to continue demonstrating value to clients in this ever-changing landscape.    Listen to the...

What happens when industry news is quiet? Industry soup. In this episode, Rob and Greg discuss various topics with an effort to draw parallels to real estate. From their weight loss strategies and detailed plan for a 60-day weight loss regimen to Tesla cars and the emotional connection people have with their vehicles. This conversation covers a lot.    Touching on simplicity in design and analog experiences in a tech-driven world. Rob and Greg explore the potential future of technology and...

Are real estate forms truly consumer-friendly or are they just industry-driven? In this episode, Doug Miller and Wendy Gilch, Directors of CAARE (Consumer Advocates in American Real Estate), expose what they believe are the flaws in the current buyer agency agreements. From undisclosed dual agency to lack of cancellation clauses, these forms often prioritize the interests of industry competitors over consumers.    Rob, Greg, Doug and Wendy explore potential solutions such as creating...

The recent acquisition of REcolorado by private equity firm GI Partners has sent shockwaves through the real estate industry. In this episode, Rob and Greg discuss the history of MLS privatization and the tensions between associations and MLSs. They shine a light on the lack of member control and power dynamics within the industry, exposing important truths about data ownership.    This is a red pill moment for brokers and agents as they realize the potential risks and benefits of private...

Are you confused about the new MLS policy on commission disclosures and concessions? In this thought-provoking discussion, Rob and Greg dive into the challenges and potential solutions for agents and brokers. Learn about the ethical considerations involved in disclosing commissions to clients and renegotiating buyer agency agreements.    Plus, gain insights into the role of MLS in regulating concessions and why further education is crucial. Don't miss out on this must-watch conversation...

Are you struggling to understand the NAR settlement agreement and its implications for real estate transactions? Joining us in this thought-provoking episode is Ed Zorn, VP & General Counsel for CRMLS. Rob, Greg, and Ed talk about the disconnect between NAR's understanding and other lawyers' interpretations, and what it means for brokers and agents. They dive into topics such as the risk of coordinated action, liability concerns, and the role of MLSs in enforcing rules.    They also...

You may have heard the recent statements made by Michael Ketchmark regarding the NAR settlement, but do you really understand the implications for offers of compensation?In this episode, Rob and Greg discuss the recent statements made by Michael Ketchmark regarding the NAR settlement. They analyze the settlement agreement and try to understand the implications for offers of compensation. They explore different interpretations of the agreement and the potential legal actions that could be...

Have you been keeping up with the latest updates in MLS policies? Rob and Greg break down the key details of Bright MLS's clear cooperation policy and NWMLS's decision not to remove compensation data from their system. But it doesn't stop there. They also dive into the potential legal consequences for fair housing violations and federal antitrust claims.   They also touch on the Department of Justice's involvement, implications for the industry, and potential risks for Northwest MLS and...

Are the rumors true? Is Bright MLS really going to drop the Clear Cooperation Policy (CCP)? Rob and Greg explore the potential implications of this decision, and speculate on the motivations behind it and its potential impact on NAR's authority over MLSs. They also talk about the importance of fair housing and transparency in listings, and how this decision could affect competition within the MLS industry. #BrightMLS #ClearCooperationPolicy #CCP #NAR #FairHousing #Transparency #Listings...

Who is winning the portal wars? In this episode Rob and Greg talk about the future of the MLS and debate which company they would bet their life savings on – Zillow, REALTOR.com, or Homes.com. Providing insights into these key players of the industry. They also tackle updates on the NAR settlement and how new technologies are shaping the industry.    Plus, don't miss their discussion on the influx of new agents in the industry and its effects on professionalism. From separating bad...

What is the difference between the threat of steering in an illegitimate way and being transparent and informing your client? In this episode, Rob and Greg discuss the difference between steering and fiduciary duty in real estate and other various topics including Greg's recent trip to Boston, Redfin's settlement with NAR, the enforcement of buyer showing agreements, and the potential actions of the DOJ. They also touch on the proposal for making housing affordable and the MLS execs walking...

  With buyer agreements having to take place before a showing and Zillow’s new touring agreement what will the end consumer experience be? In this episode, Rob and Greg discuss updates on the NAR settlement and Zillow's new touring agreement. They explore the implications of the settlement for big brokers and the role of the MLS policy committee. They break down Zillow's touring agreement and the industry's reaction to it, highlighting the friction it creates in the seamless consumer...

HomeServices of America has reached a settlement in the slew of commission lawsuits. Now that a huge domino has fallen, what will happen next in the industry? Rob and Greg discuss  the next steps in the commission lawsuits and the potential challenges faced by copycat lawsuits. They also discuss the role of lawyers and the potential opt-out strategy for larger builders. And how fair are these settlements and will it potentially impact recruiting and retention efforts?   They discuss other...

How will CoStar’s recent buyout of Matterport affect the industry? In this episode Rob and Greg dive into the recent acquisition of Matterport by CoStar and how Rob and Greg predicted this years ago. How will Zillow respond? And how will other industry giants such as Redfin be affected by this huge announcement?   They also talk about Realtor.com's CEO, Damian Eales, and his plans to expand the portal's offerings. But beyond the competition between these portals lies an important...

Join Rob and Greg in this episode as they talk about the recent objection filed by Pulte Homes to the NAR settlements. Are they valid and will they make an impact? Also, what is Real Estate 3.0? Greg expands on what it means and how it will shift the roles of agents. Rob shares his insights from a recent panel he attended and what the potential for state regulators intervening in commission decoupling could mean for the industry. They also take a bit of a Q & A during this special...

Not one week goes by without some huge industry news surrounding NAR. In this episode, Rob ang Greg discuss the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals' reversal in the NAR vs. US lawsuit, paving way for a new probe in the wake of the pending commission lawsuit settlement. Rob and Greg explore the antitrust lawsuit's history, implications of the reversal, and how it aligns with their predictions for the industry and future of NAR.   Greg talks about the NAR-DOJ agreement and potential political...

Did you catch the sparks fly on the last episode of Industry Relations? In case you missed it, last week Rob and Greg got into a verbal fistfight. Made up. Became friends again. And are now ready for round 2.    Rob and Greg continue their NAR settlement talk, post verbal tussle. Exploring NAR's $418 million settlement, they talk about the association's PR challenges, trust issues, and internal rifts. Questioning leadership and missed PR opportunities, they call for urgent reform.   ...

What will the recent NAR settlement mean for the future of real estate, technology, and industry navigation? In this episode of Industry Relations, Rob and Greg discuss the outcomes of the recent NAR settlement. They provide insights on the agreement, exploring their reactions and perspectives on the settlement's details. From provisions to backlash, they discuss public perception, legal frameworks, and implications for agents, brokers, and the market. During the discussion, Rob and Greg also...