Industry News

The idea that privacy creates scarcity makes for a good marketing pitch, but it doesn’t hold up when you look at how the housing marketplace really works.

The White House’s reported deficit “far exceeds” housing economists’ estimates. Plus, Kevin Warsh’s confirmation hearing is next week; real estate fraud rises.

A new CFA report found that homebuyers haven’t been deterred by agent fees, but affordability remains a problem, and “pocket listings” are an emerging threat.

“We will vigorously defend against these claims which we believe have absolutely no merit,” eXp said. The judge, meanwhile, took issue with the amended filing.

In a Redfin blog post, Rocket exec Joe Rath makes a case for “more flexibility” for sellers — while asking Washington state’s largest MLS to change its rules.

After publicly criticizing the company’s management and spending on Homes.com, activist investor Third Point has sold its ownership stake in CoStar Group.

Jun Choo explains how Preview is different from other “Coming Soon” products — and decidedly pro-consumer. “We’re not backtracking on any of our philosophy.”

The association will pay more than $52 million to resolve claims brought by homebuyers. Elliman, Anywhere, Real and others also chose to settle via Tuccori.

Stefan Swanepoel says he’s “very optimistic” and will remain active and engaged with the industry as company leaders continue to execute on his vision.

Areeje Akhtar Oriol joins Douglas Elliman as the CEO’s chief of staff. Plus, Edwin Acevedo begins his term at NAHREP; JPAR Real Estate promotes Tony Delgado.

After a judge dismissed the Hardy case in Michigan, NAR and regional associations facing similar suits in other states hope the ruling will work in their favor.

The Washington-based MLS, which was sued by the brokerage a year ago, said it’s fighting “a battle for the future of the American real estate market.”

The strength of the MLS lies in how participants use it to move the industry forward, with cooperative competition, transparency, and a focus on the consumer.

New research analyzing 20 years of metro-area transactions found that homes sold off-market earned a 1.7% premium — but the findings may not apply elsewhere.

Some companies have seen their share prices drop by 30% — or more — over the past year amid sluggish housing market conditions and ongoing economic uncertainty.

A judge said the claims in the case known as Hardy were “contradicted by reality.” Plus, plaintiffs in the Taylor case challenge Zillow’s motion to dismiss.

Reactions to the pre-market listing product center around seller choice, buyer access and “fair competition” — with a warning about potential DOJ scrutiny.

Rory Golod is now president of growth at Compass International Holdings, while Jason Abrams is Keller Williams’ new chief industry and strategy officer.

Housing advocates back most of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act but worry that its limits on institutional investors will impact the build-to-rent space.

The rental software company has been reconnecting with customers and getting “crisper around how we message,” CEO Dirk Wakeham told Real Estate News.