In a recent media release, Redfin says they are taking steps to “end our support of the National Association of Realtors.” The cite as their reasons NAR policies requiring a fee for the buyer’s agent on every listing and a pattern of alleged sexual harassment. Redfin also says it will require their brokers and agents to leave NAR “everywhere we can.” In addition, back in June, Redfin resigned their national board seat at the NAR.
“We’ve had many meetings with NAR execs to explore compromises on the policies that would let us continue our support. Since a Redfin-wide initiative to join NAR in 2017, we’ve paid more than $13 million in dues, in an effort to influence NAR to advocate for an open, technology-driven marketplace that would benefit consumers. We’ll now explore other ways to advance those goals.”
“We’d already been uncomfortable with the NAR’s positions on commissions when we read reports of sexist behavior and sexual harassment, by the NAR’s president and others, based on interviews with 29 former NAR employees. NAR was aware of the allegations for months and in some cases years, but reacted only when those allegations became public, and only after the CEO said there wasn’t a problem. Many employees described a culture of intimidation and retribution; many are still calling for more accountability.”
