The hosts recap thrilling moments from the NAR Midyear Meetings, revealing key industry developments and MLS policy changes. They discuss the implications of repealing the commingling ban on listing syndication and how the revised hate speech rule impacts industry dynamics. The intrigue continues with speculation about CMLS leadership transitions and potential mergers. The episode also highlights reduced vendor presence at trade shows and the challenges facing emerging tech companies in the real estate landscape.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Greg's Compass Protest Stunt
Greg Robertson organized a humorous publicity stunt protesting in front of Compass's hotel during NAR Midyear to promote Tuesday.com.
He hired folks via Task Rabbit to hold signs and march, creating a fun and lighthearted rally that attracted lots of attention.
insights INSIGHT
Repeal of Commingling Ban Impact
Repealing the commingling ban could lead MLSs to lose exclusivity as listings might bypass them via direct feeds.
This change opens opportunities for companies like Compass to syndicate listings outside MLS control, risking MLS relevance.
insights INSIGHT
MLS Consolidation Trends
MLSs are increasingly focused on consolidation, with Bright MLS now largest by subscriber count.
There are concerns about declining realtor accounts and shrinking trade show presence reflecting vendor consolidation.
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In this episode of Industry Relations, Rob and Greg recap the 2025 NAR Midyear Meetings in Washington, D.C., discussing key industry developments, MLS policy changes, and behind-the-scenes dynamics. Topics include the repeal of the commingling ban, updates to NAR’s controversial 10-5 speech policy, and ongoing MLS consolidation. They also cover vendor presence, association politics, and speculation around leadership changes in CMLS.
Key Takeaways
Compass “Protest” at Midyear – Greg recounts organizing a publicity stunt in front of Compass’s hotel to promote Tuesday.com
Repeal of Co-mingling Ban – Discussion on how NAR’s removal of the commingling restriction could impact listing syndication and MLS relevance.
10-5 Policy Changes – Rob and Greg unpack the revision of NAR’s hate speech rule, its political implications, and the proposal for a “conduct unbecoming” clause.
MLS Consolidation – A growing theme from the meetings was consolidation, with T3 data showing Bright MLS now leading in subscriber count.
CMLS Leadership Transition – With Denee Evans stepping down, the episode explores possible successors and whether CMLS and RESO should consider a merger.
Policy Governance Shifts – Signs point to NAR possibly stepping back from MLS policy-making, sparking conversation about which organization might take that role.
Vendor and Trade Show Insights – Observations about reduced vendor presence and the challenges for newer tech companies trying to break into the space.
Affordability and Market Outlook – Brief discussion on macro issues like tariffs, political shifts, and whether the real estate market is moving toward a buyer’s market.
Industry Relations