A Season of Reflection and Forward Momentum

As we approach the end of the year, the real estate landscape is giving us plenty to reflect on. One of the most significant developments has been NAR’s recent announcement regarding MLS participation and membership. This decision has prompted thoughtful discussion throughout the industry, and it has also created an important opportunity for regulators to understand how policy changes at the national level can influence daily practice in the field.

For our regulatory community, the ...

2025 Fair Housing Trends: Complaint Data and Enforcement Updates

The National Fair Housing Alliance (NFHA) has released its 2025 Fair Housing Trends Report, offering a detailed overview of housing discrimination complaints and enforcement activity in 2024. The report draws on data from private fair housing organizations, HUD, FHAP agencies, and the Department of Justice.

In total, 32,321 complaints were reported in 2024, which is a 5.36 percent decrease from the previous year. Disability-related complaints comprised 54.59 percent of all cases, ...

After the Settlement: How Real Estate Agents Handle Commission Negotiations

Recent research by the Consumer Policy Center (CPC) uncovered significant findings about buyer-agent compensation and contracting that regulators should watch. In a report based on 281 “mystery shopper” interviews across 26 U.S. metropolitan markets, buyers seeking to hire an agent were asked about compensation and contract terms. 

Despite the landmark March ...

NAR Introduces Updated MLS Policies and New Strategic Plan

At its 2025 NAR NXT conference in Houston, the National Association of REALTORS announced several important updates that will shape the structure and operations of Multiple Listing Services (MLSs) beginning in 2026. NAR also adopted its 2026–2028 Strategic Plan, reflecting extensive member engagement and an effort to align the organization with future industry needs. These developments hold noteworthy implications for regulators and ARELLO members as the real estate environment continues to ...

Regulating the Future: How AI Policy Could Reshape Real-Estate Practice

The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) recently issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking input on federal regulations that may hinder artificial intelligence (AI) innovation and deployment. In response, the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) submitted a detailed ...