Industry Relations

Impact and Consequences of the Zillow Lawsuit

Jan 10, 2024

Rob and Greg explore the Zillow lawsuit against MLSs, discussing the impact on technology distribution and MLS system integration. They delve into the challenges faced by MLSs and the potential consequences for competition. The speakers also discuss the lack of standards for information swapping and the confusion surrounding Errol's role in the Showing Time acquisition. Additionally, they examine the power dynamics between Zillow and the National Association of Realtors, expressing concerns about potential consequences and industry bullies.

58:13

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Quick takeaways

The Zillow lawsuit against MLSs highlights the challenges and potential consequences of relying on a single showing management platform.

Zillow's aggressive stance in filing the lawsuit marks a departure from its previous cooperative approach, indicating growing competition and tensions in the real estate technology landscape.

The outcome of the lawsuit could lead to more open and standardized approaches to integrating third-party technology into MLS systems, promoting greater competition and innovation in the industry.

Deep dives

Zillow lawsuit against MLS analyzed

Zillow has filed a lawsuit against two MLSs, Armless out of Phoenix and Metro out of Milwaukee, for alleged antitrust violations. The lawsuit stems from Zillow's acquisition of ShowingTime and the subsequent removal of its integration from MLS systems. The lawsuit claims that the MLS controls the distribution of technology and that the removal of ShowingTime's integration makes it functionally unworkable for most agents. The lawsuit also raises questions about the power and role of MLSs in the real estate industry. The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for the MLS industry and its relationship with third-party vendors.

Challenges with Integrating Showing Management Platforms into MLS Member Portals

01:41

Importance of Showing Time and Showing Time Plus to Zillow's Growth Strategy

01:16

Implications of the Lawsuit on MLS Vendor Discrimination

01:11

Significant Shift in Zillow's Actions

01:03

Introduction

2min

Discussing the Impact and Consequences of the Zillow Lawsuit

5min

Integration and Collaboration in the Real Estate Space

6min

Policies and Consequences of MLS Organizations and Vendors

17min

The Lack of Standards for Information Swapping

10min

The Role of Errol and Confusion about the Showing Time Acquisition

2min

The Impact and Consequences of the Zillow Lawsuit

14min

Discussion of Zillow lawsuit and other topics

2min

What happens when a real estate giant like Zillow takes legal action against their own clients? Things get a little complicated as Rob and Greg explore the issues of the delicate balance of being a participant, vendor and MLS organization (sometimes all at the same time!)

***Disclaimer - Due to MLS Aligned being a consulting client of Greg, the views expressed on this podcast are Greg’s opinions and DO NOT represent the views of MLS Aligned.***

Rob and Greg discuss the recent Zillow lawsuit against two MLSs, ARMLS and Metro MLS, which alleges control over technology distribution and the practical implications of not being integrated into the MLS member portal and how it affects the functionality of platforms like ShowingTime. Greg gives his own first-hand experiences with MLS system integration and Cloud CMA. They explore what could be the potential impact on competition and the challenges faced by MLSs in making integration decisions.

And can MLS organizations choose who they do business with or not? Mountain? Molehill? Listen to Rob and Greg try and grapple a tricky situation as only they can.

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This podcast is produced by Two Brothers Creative 2024.