The article critiques the practices of some real estate agents, particularly regarding the “private exclusive listings,” promoted by Compass. It argues that these listings create an illusion of consumer choice, often driven by agents’ interests rather than consumer demand. Many sellers feel misled, with substantial financial consequences resulting.
As of August 17, 2024, buyers must enter a written agreement with real estate professionals before viewing properties. Differences exist in services, training, experience, and resources among agents. It’s essential for buyers to understand these differences to make informed choices.
The evolving show-for-free and show-for-fee business models in real estate prioritize profit over consumer education, leading to potential exploitation and undermining the essential advisory role of real estate agents and brokers.
Robert Refkin inaccurately criticizes the Clear Cooperation Rule as violating the National Association of REALTORS Code of Ethics and state laws. Despite his objections, the rule is pro-consumer, fostering competition and better market exposure. The arguments against it are flawed and often disregard the broader benefits to both buyers and sellers.
Critics argue real estate agents are overpaid due to generous commissions. However, agents earn through success-based fees, providing extensive unpaid services if transactions fail. Unlike other professionals, agents only earn upon successful deals. Switching to fee-based models could increase costs and risks for consumers without providing the safeguards licensed agents offer, ultimately being costlier.
The NAR settlement has sparked debate over the real estate industry’s future without affecting cooperative compensation or making commissions negotiable, as they have always been. Concerns about increased cash needed for buyers are raised, but home values remain driven by market forces, not agent fees. Nonetheless, realtors remain dedicated to serving clients ethically and professionally in achieving homeownership.