The real estate industry is under pressure to change because of a couple major arguments.
1. Freely distributable MLS data
2. Price gouging
Actually both fronts stem from the idea that the NAR is running a monopolistic organization, where prices are fixed and the listings data is controlled by the organization.
And it isn’t totally manufactured either. I know of a local discounter that has been blackballed by local buyer agents. Its not official of course, it is subtle.
And, I know of local companies that have opted out of IDX!
In fact a leading consumer rights group, the Consumer Federation of America (CFA), on Monday issued a report charging that real estate industry members act as a cartel to stifle competition, resulting in higher prices and poorer service for homebuyers.
The argument goes that it is cheaper to operate a brokerage today because of technical advances.
…and most of your licensee friends sleep as the rug is being pulled right out from underneath.