The Industry Relations Podcast is now available on your favorite podcast player! Overview

Rob and Greg return to break down CMLS 2025 in Toronto, offering their candid takes on the good, the bad, and the ugly of the event. From bold leadership discussions and MLS operational shifts to vendor frustrations and AI speculation, they cover the hot topics shaping the industry. The episode also dives into the Compass/Anywhere merger, vendor challenges, and how AI may (or may not) reshape real estate.

Key Takeaways

CMLS 2025 Recap: Despite venue issues, the conference featured strong panels on MLS operations and leadership .
Bold Leadership: Key discussions included separating associations and MLSs, technology shifts like AWS migration, and communication strategies for major decisions
Compass/Anywhere Merger: MLS execs showed a pragmatic stance, with little immediate panic over the deal .
Vendor Struggles: Vendors continue to face slow MLS sales cycles, entrenched incumbents, and a “glacial pace” of change .
AI’s Role: Debate on whether AI will increase the number of realtors (2 million by 2030?) or simply change workflows in MLS operations and compliance .
Opendoor’s AI Push: Skepticism over Opendoor’s “AI-first” pivot, with questions about what it really means for flipping houses