T
he housing market is on the cusp of a seismic shift, with some real estate companies pushing to list homes on private networks. This move has sparked concerns that buyers will struggle to access these properties, exacerbating an already tight market. The National Association of Realtors is poised to consider a rule change this month that could grant brokerages more leeway to share listings privately before making them publicly available.

    Proponents argue that sellers should have control over how and when their homes are advertised, citing the need for discretion around sensitive information like price drops and time on the market. However, critics warn that private listing networks will limit buyers' access to a dwindling supply of homes, potentially costing sellers top dollar in the process.

    Research suggests that homes sold outside of traditional multiple listing services (MLS) often fetch nearly $5,000 less than those listed through the MLS. This disparity is particularly pronounced among ultra-luxury and celebrity properties, as well as new builds and high-end sales.

    The debate has pitted industry heavyweights against each other, with some arguing that private listings are a necessary evil in today's competitive market. Others see it as a thinly veiled attempt to restrict access and drive business towards select brokerages. As the National Association of Realtors weighs its options, the stakes are high for consumers who rely on transparency and accessibility in their home buying experience.