Brooklee Han and the DOJ’s latest legal actions on the commission lawsuits
Jun 26, 2024
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Real Estate Reporter Brooklee Han discusses DOJ's latest actions in real estate litigation, including inquiries into California Association of Realtors' forms and REX's suit against NAR and Zillow. The podcast also explores early AI adoption in the mortgage industry and the impact of DOJ's interventions on commission lawsuits, analyzing their potential effects on judicial outcomes and the Biden administration's influence on housing industry priorities.
Private equity acquisition of RE Colorado MLS raises questions on its impact in the real estate community.
DOJ's inquiry into California Association of Realtors' standard forms focuses on ensuring fair practices and consumer protection in the industry.
Deep dives
Shakeup at RE Colorado MLS
A recent shakeup at RE Colorado MLS, an MLS in the Denver area, involved primary shareholders, including real estate associations, selling the company to a private equity-backed investor. This move surprised many as negotiations were ongoing with RE Colorado's management and board members regarding share buybacks. Industry experts find it intriguing because it marks the first time a private equity firm has acquired an MLS, raising questions on the motivations behind this acquisition and its potential impact on the real estate community.
DOJ's Interventions in Real Estate Industry
The Department of Justice's recent actions in the real estate sector include launching a formal inquiry into the California Association of Realtors' standard forms. Specifically, a delay in the release of 21 forms due to business practice changes outlined in the National Association of Realtors Commission Lawsuit Settlement Agreement. With concerns raised about the readability and implications of certain real estate contracts, the DOJ's involvement signals a focus on ensuring fair practices and consumer protection within the industry.
DOJ's Vigilance on Anti-Competitive Practices
The DOJ's attention to potential anti-competitive behavior extends to the real estate realm, as seen in the Rex Zillow appeal case. The focus lies on the National Association of Realtors' optional no co-mingling rule and its impact on fostering competition. By filing an amicus brief, the DOJ aims to monitor industry policies closely to prevent antitrust violations and maintain a level playing field for market participants. The DOJ's actions reflect a commitment to overseeing fair practices and upholding competition standards in the real estate sector.
On today’s episode, Editor in Chief Sarah Wheeler talks with Real Estate Reporter Brooklee Han about the DOJ’s most recent actions in real estate litigation and an unusual turn of events for REcolorado.
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