The Great NAR Debate: Sam DeBord Challenges Rob and Greg!
Nov 29, 2023
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Sam DeBord challenges Rob and Greg on NAR's competency. Lack of communication and secrecy of NAR's legal strategy. Lack of communication on copycat lawsuits. Challenges, cultural issues, and financial implications of NAR membership. Criticism of NAR's legal strategy. The importance of caring and providing context. Passion for the Realtor's movement and civil disagreement.
NAR's communication plan and legal strategy in response to the lawsuits have been criticized for lack of transparency and timely communication to members.
The lack of strong consumer communication from NAR is seen as a missed opportunity to protect the industry's reputation and assist real estate professionals in addressing consumer questions and concerns.
NAR's handling of the antitrust lawsuit has raised concerns about potential copycat lawsuits and the need to address legal challenges to protect the industry as a whole.
Deep dives
Misconceptions about NAR's communication and legal strategy
Some misconceptions exist about NAR's communication plan and legal strategy in response to the lawsuits. The podcast episode suggests that NAR did not plan for an appeal or settlement and failed to communicate with its membership. However, there have been extensive communications sent to members discussing settlements, appeals, and the copycat lawsuits. While it's acknowledged that some may not be satisfied with the timing or breadth of these communications, it's important to note that a communications plan did exist.
Discussion on the handling of consumer outreach
The podcast episode highlights concerns about NAR's handling of consumer outreach in the event of losing the lawsuit. The hosts argue that NAR should have been proactive in addressing potential negative media coverage and providing a strong voice to defend the realtor brand. While there were some op-eds and media outreach in response to the trial outcome, the hosts feel that it was insufficient and lacked promptness. The lack of strong consumer communication from NAR is seen as a missed opportunity to protect the industry's reputation and assist real estate professionals in addressing consumer questions and concerns.
Criticism and challenges faced by NAR
The episode points out the challenges faced by NAR, including cultural issues within the organization and the pressure to respond on multiple fronts. Some criticism is directed towards NAR for not adequately addressing these challenges and their impact on overall strategy and communication. The arguments presented in the episode explore the need for efficient crisis communication, the potential for MLS and association members leaving NAR, and the financial implications of the lawsuits on MLSs.
Points of Agreement and Call for Improvement
While there may be disagreement on specific tactics and approaches, it is acknowledged that improvements and stronger efforts could have been made in NAR's communication and crisis response. The hosts express their concerns about the timing and effectiveness of NAR's messaging to its members and the wider public. They believe that better consumer outreach and strategic media engagement could have mitigated potential damage to the industry's reputation and provided a stronger defense of the realtor profession.
Lack of Communication from NAR on Legal Strategy
During the podcast, there was a discussion about the lack of communication from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) regarding its legal strategy in response to the antitrust lawsuit. It was mentioned that NAR has not been clear about its plans for settlement, legislative action, or potential strategies to fight the lawsuit. This lack of transparency was seen as a issue, as it leaves members and industry professionals in the dark about the potential consequences of the lawsuit and how NAR intends to address them. The podcast participants emphasized the importance of providing clear and open communication to the membership and leadership.
Concerns Over Copycat Lawsuits and Industry Impact
Another key point discussed in the podcast was the concern over copycat lawsuits and their potential impact on the real estate industry. The participants highlighted that NAR's legal battle sets a precedent and could lead to other lawsuits against local associations and brokers. The fear is that even if NAR successfully defends itself, individual agents and smaller entities might not have the resources to fight similar lawsuits. The podcast stressed the importance of addressing these legal challenges to protect the industry as a whole. It was mentioned that NAR should consider settling in order to provide a resolution for everyone involved and avoid prolonged legal battles.
On this episode of Industry Relations, Sam DeBord joins Rob and Greg, and things get a bit uncomfortable as Sam tries to set NAR’s record straight. Tune in as Sam and Rob have a testy disagreement on NAR’s competency, but at the end of the day display their passion for the industry. While Greg tries to keep the peace and believes everyone on all sides can do a better job.
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