It was hard to miss when a huge article entitled, “The Last of the 6-Percenters?” appeared on the front page of The New York Times Sunday business section. It discussed discounted brokerage services at length. In many cities,” said the Times, “real estate agents have tried to restrict access to M.L.S. information or to limit its use on the database. Some have asked state legislatures to pass laws forcing brokers to offer certain levels of service.”

These words are all about minimum services and the perception that the growing industry demand for minimum standards of practice is nothing more than a cloaked effort to stymie discount brokers. As the Times explained, “The Justice Department and the Federal Trade Commission have fought these tactics in Texas, Kentucky, Tennessee and Oklahoma, among other states, and the department is suing the National Association of Realtors, the powerful trade group of agents and brokers, over what it calls anti-competitive rules.” Anti-competitive? Why aren’t these contentions addressed head-on? The presumptions found within this article are simply unchallenged. Does this mean they’re true?

Looking for that perfect Sarasota home for sale or condo? Realtor® Annette Smith is ready to help you buy or sell your dream property.

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