Industry Relations

In this final episode of the year, Rob and Greg deliver their predictions for 2025, exploring how the real estate industry will evolve. They tackle everything from transaction volumes and mortgage rates to the fate of MLSs and the potential unraveling of the three-way agreement. Along the way, they discuss societal trends, like the importance of community and the role associations can play in brin...

In this  Industry Relations episode, Rob and Greg reflect on the pivotal events of 2024, dubbing it "The Year of the Settlement." They analyze the seismic shifts in real estate, including the impact of high-interest rates, low inventory, NAR's declining influence, and the ripple effects of major lawsuits. The duo also previews what these changes could mean for 2025 and beyond, setting the stage fo...

In this episode of Industry Relations , Rob and Greg tackle the latest controversies surrounding NAR  and the recent investigative article from The New York Times . They debate the role of lobbying, explore accusations of corruption and financial mismanagement, and reflect on the broader challenges facing NAR's leadership and reputation. Key Takeaways • NAR and Lobbying Controversy : Discussion on...

Overview In this special episode of Industry Relations , Rob and Greg welcome economist and author Professor Bryan Caplan to discuss his latest book, Build Baby Build: The Science and Ethics of Housing Regulation . The trio dives into the housing crisis, exploring how deregulation could address affordability, inequality, and other societal issues. Bryan's insights challenge conventional thinking,...

Episode Summary: In this episode, Rob and Greg tackle the latest developments in the housing market and its broader implications for real estate professionals. From dissecting the DOJ's recent moves to exploring how transactions and home prices define market strength, the duo brings sharp insights and engaging commentary to these critical topics.   Discussion Highlights: • DOJ's Statement of Inter...

Episode Summary: In this timely episode In this timely episode (recorded Monday, November 25), Rob and Greg dive deep into the DOJ's recent statement of interest in the Burnett settlement. They break down the key points raised, including the potential antitrust concerns surrounding the requirement for buyers to sign agreements before home tours and the broader implications for real estate brokers...

In this episode of  Industry Relations , Rob and Greg dive into the latest developments in the real estate world, focusing on leadership, membership dynamics, and the challenges facing NAR in 2024. They engage in a spirited debate about leadership priorities, assessing Nykia Wright's tenure as CEO, and what it takes to steer an organization during turbulent times. Key Takeaways • Leadership Dynami...

  Greg just landed back home from NAR Boston and Rob is curious to what insights he learned.   Greg's main insight is that he isn't as young as he once was. 1.  Election Impact on Real Estate: • Rob and Greg delve into the recent election results, exploring how potential changes in government could impact HUD and real estate policies. • Debate on the future leadership of HUD and the potential impa...

Episode Overview Rob and Greg explore how the upcoming election could reshape the real estate industry, focusing on regulatory impacts, DOJ actions, and antitrust issues. They also discuss potential changes to industry practices and transparency in agent behavior. Key Topics 1. Election Predictions: • Friendly wager on election outcomes, with predictions on how results could shift real estate poli...

Overview: Rob and Greg talk with Jack Miller, CEO of T360, about the recently released "Opportunity Report" and its significance for the real estate industry. The discussion focuses on how real estate leaders can navigate current challenges and seize opportunities in the face of regulatory changes, declining transaction volume, and industry consolidation.   Key Topics:   1. The Opportunity Report:...

In the latest episode of Industry Relations, Rob and Greg venture into a thought-provoking discussion about disaster preparedness and self-reliance. While they typically focus on real estate, this episode broadens the scope, offering practical insights on how to be ready for unexpected emergencies like natural disasters or social unrest.   Rob, who has fully embraced the prepper lifestyle, breaks...

It seems everyone in the industry is still obsessed with CCP.   Rob and Greg are no different.   The show starts off with Rob giving Greg some advice on his upcoming client meetings, but quickly shifts to the recent back and forth about CCP.   Greg thinks that industry players like Compass CEO Robert Reffkin to stop spreading misinformation about MLS.   Rob says there is blame on both sides.   Thi...

Many people don't know or understand NAR's PDAP.  PDAP stands for Participant Data Access Policy.  And PDAP is at the heart of today's episode. Rob and Greg dive deep into the topic of who actually owns MLS data. The answer, as it turns out, really depends on who you ask. But we're living in a new world where private MLS ownership is becoming a reality, and also what are those second order consque...

After missing a recording last week (due to travel schedules) the boys are back with another jammed pack episode of Industry Relations.   In this week's episode Rob and Greg discuss recent Blueprint conference in Las Vegas, CMLS 2024 in Seattle and REColorado new subscriber agreement.   And they sprinkle a little CCP talking points just for good measure. Watch us on YouTube !   Pictures of Greg's...

On this episode of Industry Relations Rob and Greg discuss, for what seems to be the 17th time, the current rumors about the Clear Cooperation Policy. Rob recently posted a few thoughts on the subject and a few solutions to what seems to have the entire industry tied up in knots.  What they soon realize, there are no easy answers. Watch us on YouTube ! Connect with Rob and Greg:  Rob's Website Gre...

Rob and Greg are back to their regularly scheduled broadcast!   The episode includes discussion on Landian, the new "a la carte" brokerage launched by Josh Sitzer , yes, that Sitzer.   Rob discusses his recent Sub Stack post on " Amara's Law and Real Estate " and how we shouldn't read too much in to how things are going with the NAR settlement.   The boys also discuss online dating, new business m...

Greg joins Rob from Chicago where he was attending NAR's iOi Summit.  Greg gives his experience of being at the iOi Summit and discusses the pitch battle and his favorite new app, Tuesday , and its founder Cole Boyer who won "Crowd Favorite". They go on to discuss NAR's decision to appoint Nykia Wright as their new CEO and if experience in organized real estate or connections in Washington D.C. re...

Rob and Greg teamed up with James Dwiggins and Keith Robinson from the Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered podcast during the recent Inman Connect Las Vegas event. From the complexities of forms and commission sharing, to the pros and cons of state association forms, the guys got into it.   They explored the potential for conspiracy charges in a post-settlement world and discussed the unintended conse...

Are you up to date on the recent changes in MLS rules and buyer agency agreements? In this episode, Rob and Greg dive into the controversy surrounding these updates and discuss the ethical implications for agents. From forgery to enforcement, confusion to challenges, this conversation covers a lot of ground. They shed light on the need for a substantive approach to reform in the real estate indust...

Are you a real estate broker or agent grappling with the NAR settlement's requirement for written buyer agreements before showings? Rob and Greg dive deep into the controversy, debating the pros and cons of charging clients and exploring the potential consequences of non-compliance. They also discuss the evolving role of listing agents, the ethical dilemmas of dual agency, and the challenges of en...

The August 17th deadline is almost here, and the industry is abuzz with talk of potential changes to MLSs and associations. Rob and Greg discuss the latest developments in the NAR settlement with the DOJ and its potential impact on compensation models, forms, and client relationships. With disruption looming, they delve into the hot topic of buyer agent commissions and agreements, as well as how t...

What happens when industry news is quiet? Industry soup. In this episode, Rob and Greg discuss various topics with an effort to draw parallels to real estate. From their weight loss strategies and detailed plan for a 60-day weight loss regimen to Tesla cars and the emotional connection people have with their vehicles. This conversation covers a lot.    Touching on simplicity in design and analog e...

Are real estate forms truly consumer-friendly or are they just industry-driven? In this episode, Doug Miller and Wendy Gilch, Directors of CAARE (Consumer Advocates in American Real Estate), expose what they believe are the flaws in the current buyer agency agreements. From undisclosed dual agency to lack of cancellation clauses, these forms often prioritize the interests of industry competitors o...

The recent acquisition of REcolorado by private equity firm GI Partners has sent shockwaves through the real estate industry. In this episode, Rob and Greg discuss the history of MLS privatization and the tensions between associations and MLSs. They shine a light on the lack of member control and power dynamics within the industry, exposing important truths about data ownership.    This is a red p...

Are you confused about the new MLS policy on commission disclosures and concessions? In this thought-provoking discussion, Rob and Greg dive into the challenges and potential solutions for agents and brokers. Learn about the ethical considerations involved in disclosing commissions to clients and renegotiating buyer agency agreements.    Plus, gain insights into the role of MLS in regulating conce...