T
he real estate industry was abuzz with news last year, making it challenging for professionals to keep up with the latest developments. Industry leaders and experts provided valuable commentary that helped unpack current events, often becoming news in itself. Here are some key comments that shaped the narrative:

    Brokerage leaders focused on preparing agents for industry changes following the NAR settlement, emphasizing the need for professionalism and a new level of service. eXp CEO Leo Pareja advised agents to "treat your buyers like you treat your sellers," which translates to having a buyer presentation as good as their listing presentation.

    As brokerages navigated complex rule changes and training requirements, Real Brokerage President Sharran Srivatsaa encouraged his agents to lead with empathy and understanding. He noted that the industry was facing unprecedented complexities, and leading with grace would be essential in overcoming these challenges.

    The theme of leading with empathy resonated throughout the year, as Anywhere Brands and Advisors CEO Sue Yannaccone also emphasized its importance. She believed that not everyone would be prepared for the changes, and agents needed to lead with kindness and understanding.

    A rift formed between the Phoenix Realtors and NAR over the former's MLS Choice program, which aimed to give brokers a choice in how they ran their business. Phoenix Realtors CEO Andy Fegley described it as a modernization effort that would allow agents to ask what level of programs and services they needed to be successful.

    The DOJ's actions also dominated the headlines, with broker-owner Anthony Lamacchia predicting that the agency would face consequences for its aggressive targeting of the residential real estate industry. However, the DOJ has reiterated its position that it will continue investigating NAR and industry practices, viewing any commitment to stop as a "nonstarter."