MLS/Association News

Louisiana agents are the latest to sue NAR over membership rules that limit MLS access — and alleged reputational damage caused by scandals and lawsuits.

After remaining largely stable during the second half of 2024, recent threats from agents and local associations could result in further declines this year.

As a weak market and dissatisfaction with NAR drive attrition, more leaders are considering opening MLS access to non-Realtors, a recent survey found.

Leaders of the nation’s 16th-largest MLS envision a broker-centric future — and more privately owned multiple listing services. “We’ve now opened the door.”

In an email to leaders, the association said PAR’s refusal to stop offering its MLS Choice option leaves NAR “no choice” but to defend its trademark and model.

The National Association of Realtors says MLS Choice allows non-Realtors to join the Phoenix association. PAR says NAR “threats” will chill innovation.

The association made a deal to end commissions cases while facing leadership shifts, intense attention from the DOJ — and media — and "rumblings" of discontent.

The option lets brokers access the MLS outside the “traditional three-tier membership system.” NAR says it is “maintaining standards for the Realtor brand.”

The National Association of Realtors and Department of Justice reached a deal in 2020, and since then have fiercely debated whether the case can be reopened.

The association shared “a comprehensive fact check” rebutting claims of political bias and questionable financial practices related to an affiliated nonprofit.

A new report shines light on NAR’s American Property Owners Alliance and raises issues around transparency and the ethics of partisan spending.

The National Association of Realtors reported having roughly 1.52 million members in December, despite growing pushback from agents and local associations.

Kevin Brown, who will lead NAR in 2026, says he’s seen “the transformative power of homeownership” to move people out of poverty. “That’s why I do this.”

A new complaint, like others filed in Michigan and Pennsylvania, claims that requiring association membership as a precondition for MLS access is monopolistic.

The new, lower-cost program also includes access to legal forms and training, and is being rolled out as NAR’s three-way agreement faces greater scrutiny.

Leaders spent thousands on Hamilton tickets and other luxuries with corporate credit cards, as former execs stayed on the payroll, The New York Times reported.

CEO Nykia Wright said she is also engaging a chief human resources officer, as well as a special advisor to help re-establish broker relationships.

Kevin Sears kicked off NAR NXT with an acknowledgement of real estate industry challenges and a message of unity. His go-to message: “We protect consumers.”

A case filed in Pennsylvania challenges membership rules and accuses associations of discriminatory treatment of minority real estate professionals.

A decision by Park City Realtors could signal a shift in local associations’ willingness to abide by NAR policies, and comes as the CCP debate intensifies.