R
eal estate industry executives may not see eye to eye on the National Association of Realtors' (NAR) Clear Cooperation Policy, but they agree that most sellers benefit from listing transparency and broad exposure. According to Ginger Wilcox, president of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, "the average person" prioritizes affordability and maximizing their home's value through exposure.

    Mauricio Umansky, CEO of The Agency, who opposes CCP, agrees with Wilcox on the importance of MLS listings for most sellers. He believes agents should advise clients to list on the market to maximize exposure and value. Umansky has only recommended off-market listings in rare cases, such as ultra-luxury properties.

    Umansky advocates for choice and flexibility in real estate transactions, allowing both buyers and sellers to make informed decisions. Errol Samuelson, Zillow's chief industry development officer, notes that CCP allows sellers to choose how they market their listing, including office exclusives or suppressing online sharing.

    Samuelson acknowledges instances where off-market listings are necessary due to privacy concerns. Wilcox's firm has an internal private listing platform for such cases. Umansky warns that siloed private listing networks could harm competition in the industry by limiting access to listings and collaboration among brokerages.

    As the debate over CCP continues, Samuelson emphasizes that the industry should prioritize what is best for consumers – buyers and sellers alike. He believes cooperation and equitable access are key to the industry's success, allowing all agents a chance to bring buyers to listings.