IndustryStartup aims to bring assumable mortgages to the massesCould a new market emerge around homebuyers taking over a seller’s existing low interest rate loan? One proptech veteran thinks so.AJ LaTraceJune 13, 2025
By the NumbersClouds begin to part for buyers as mortgage rates hold steadyThough buyers continue to face high mortgage rates and general economic uncertainty, there are signs indicating the market is becoming more favorable for them.Dave GallagherJune 12, 2025
BrokeragesIs this the best brokerage brand ‘you’ve never heard of’?HomeSmart CEO Matt Widdows reveals how centralizing tech, services and support has fueled the Arizona-based company’s quiet rise while shaping its culture.Stephanie Reid-SimonsJune 12, 2025
IndustryHousing advocates send ‘urgent message’ to lawmakersThe NAHB addresses housing affordability on Capitol Hill. Meanwhile, Democrats are requesting information on Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac privatization efforts.Meghan RoosJune 11, 2025
MLS/AssnNAR membership structure, fees under fire in new lawsuitA California broker is suing NAR and his local associations, alleging that fee rules are anticompetitive and have “a chilling effect on independent brokerages.”Dave GallagherJune 11, 2025
By the NumbersInvestors sell off homes amid softening marketLast year saw a record-high share of investor home sales. Meanwhile, smaller investors made new gains, and the Midwest emerged as a focal point for buyers.AJ LaTraceJune 11, 2025
BrokeragesFormer CFO sues Real, alleging discriminationMichelle Ressler was fired in April by Real, which cited misconduct. Ressler says the claims were “manufactured” as a way to oust her after having a baby.Amie FisherJune 10, 2025
MLS/AssnMLS PIN deal approved after long-fought battle with DOJA Massachusetts judge granted preliminary approval on June 10, nearly two years after a proposed settlement drew intense scrutiny from the Justice Department.Dave GallagherJune 10, 2025
IndustryOver 2.5 million claims filed in commissions lawsuitsBased on the number of claims filed by the May 9 deadline, each home seller could receive around $250 from the over $1 billion settlement fund.Dave GallagherJune 10, 2025
Brokerages‘Playmakers’: Gary Keller on why most agents fail his pitch testWatch the conversation as Keller Williams’ co-founder discusses the challenges of a slow market. “My advice to everyone is, do not stray from the fundamentals.”Meghan RoosJune 10, 2025
IndustryZillow co-founder on how ‘provocation marketing’ can propel a brandWhen an early investor challenged Rich Barton to imagine building Zillow without a marketing budget, he realized an enticing product can create its own buzz.Taylor SoperJune 9, 2025
By the NumbersBuying optimism up as consumer anxiety easesFannie Mae’s monthly survey indicates Americans are feeling better about market conditions, interest rates and job security than they were earlier this spring.Dave GallagherJune 9, 2025
IndustryHow to talk with buyers about homeowners insuranceAs insurance rates skyrocket in areas prone to extreme weather, agents need to make sure homebuyers understand those costs to avoid problems at closing.Dave GallagherJune 9, 2025
Brokerages‘The future of real estate belongs to leaders who …’Digital collaboration expert Erica Dhawan says the key to success is the ability to operate as a “super connector” — embracing AI, but focusing on humanity. Stephanie Reid-SimonsJune 7, 2025
BrokeragesBrokerage Beat: Elliman goes global; gains at C21, eXp; moreDouglas Elliman embarks on international expansion plans; The Agency opens its first Madrid office; C21 snaps up an indie in the Pacific Northwest; more.Real Estate News StaffJune 7, 2025
IndustryOpendoor, facing delisting, plans reverse stock splitThe troubled iBuyer laid off 40 employees on June 11 as it scrambles to lift its stock price above Nasdaq’s $1 threshold.Stephanie Reid-Simons, Meghan RoosUpdated June 12, 2025
TechTech Bytes: RatePlug debuts integrated home search, financing platformThe offering combines affordability-based search, mortgage rates, pre-approval and lead scoring for agents and lenders. Plus, news from Goby Homes and more.Real Estate News StaffJune 6, 2025
BrokeragesBaird: Chicago’s brokerage battle will be won by the ‘owner-driven’Stephen Baird of Baird & Warner has seen many brokerage giants rise and fall over the decades and believes a similar scenario may be playing out right now. AJ LaTraceJune 6, 2025
By the NumbersSellers start holding back as market demand dragsMortgage rates ticked down slightly this week, but lower rates may not be enough to motivate buyers as affordability continues posing challenges.Dave GallagherJune 5, 2025
MLS/AssnListings display changes, dues news and more from NAR in DCThe National Association of Realtors closed out a busy week in the nation’s capital, updating rules, lobbying and hearing from President Trump.Stephanie Reid-SimonsJune 5, 2025