A
new report, The Opportunity Report, identifies 20 ways the residential real estate industry can improve itself and better serve homebuyers and sellers. Written by Stefan Swanepoel, a leading voice in the industry, the report is a follow-up to his landmark DANGER Report from a decade ago.

    The report tackles topics such as Clear Cooperation, agent pay, and association membership, reframing challenges as opportunities for growth and transformation. Swanepoel writes that the industry is at a pivotal moment, where it can choose to unite behind a shared vision or continue down a path of division.

    One key opportunity highlighted in the report is the potential for decoupling buyer and seller agent compensation. This change could lead to more skilled agents earning higher paydays, rather than accepting blanket offers. The report also suggests that voluntary association membership could create a healthier environment where associations become more relevant and responsive to their members.

    The Opportunity Report also focuses on making homeownership more affordable, an issue hindered by high interest rates and limited housing availability. The industry is challenged to lead the way in reducing costs, promoting advocacy, and leveraging technology to make homeownership a more achievable dream.

    Industry leaders are encouraged to unite behind a vision that prioritizes transparent real estate marketplaces, accessible to consumers, brokers, and agents alike. By embracing these opportunities, the report argues that the residential real estate industry can thrive and become a model for other industries worldwide.