Where Real Estate Gets Its Dirt

Where we are headed…

Glenn Kelman’s last day

Unemployed, In Greenland

“Running so fast with people so smart made me feel free when I once viewed the business world as a prison. The whole miracle of human ingenuity starts with the simple act of thinking for yourself, but that depends on finding people to whom you can say what you really think. I discovered those people while Redfin was still based out of an apartment, and that grew a thousandfold into our culture.”

Such a class act. Great writer. And one of the last ones who would tell it like it is and cut the corporate gobbledygook.


GFK I’m gonna miss you. Good luck on your new adventures.

MetroList continues expansion

MetroList Expands Regional Footprint with Madera County Association of REALTORS®
-Joining Its MLS Platform

“With the addition of MAR, MetroList now serves 15 Central and Northern California counties and supports data-sharing across 29 relevant counties, creating expanded exposure and opportunity for real estate professionals and consumers alike. This strategic move reflects MAR’s commitment to equipping its members with forward-thinking tools, innovative technology, and comprehensive service and support in an increasingly value driven real estate landscape.”

Looks like MetroList is building some momentum. The consolidation continues…

Chris Osborn and Valentina Shenderovich join Larson Skinner

Larson Skinner Adds Seasoned MLS and Brokerage Counsel as Real Estate Industry Evolves

“Chris has a long history of helping MLSs strategically evolve their forms, policies, and legal strategies” said Mitch Skinner, co-owner and managing member of Larson Skinner. “And Valentina brings the grounded, business-first perspective of someone who has built products and managed risk from inside a brokerage.”

“Together, they add even more depth to how we can support MLSs, associations, and brokerages as the industry navigates rapid change” added Camille Beshara, Larson Skinner co-owner and member.”

Congrats to Chris and Valentina and the Larson Skinner team!

SP200 MLS Movers and Shakers

I always like comparing this year’s Swanepoel Power 200 (SP200) list to last year’s. There’s quite a bit of movement overall, but my focus is on the MLS community. This year, it looks like Art Carter, CEO of CRMLS, and Brian Donnellan, CEO of Bright MLS, swapped the top MLS spot on the list.

One move that really jumped out at me was Justin Haag, CEO of Northwest MLS, who climbed 81 spots, from 194 to 113. NWMLS showed real courage by sticking to its guns in its stance against Compass. Other notable jumps came from Emily Girard, Kevin Greene, and Tim Dain. And it was good to see Matt Fowler, CEO of Doorify land at 199—when I was first eligible, that was exactly where I started. Congrats to everyone who made the list.

NOTE: If I forgot anyone, or got something wrong, please let me know and I’ll update the list. Seems like every year I screw up on at least one name.

Compass Closes, CoStar Cuts, TAN Stirs the Pot.

Overview

Rob and Greg dive into a packed week in real estate: the Compass–Anywhere deal officially closes, CoStar announces major spending cuts for Homes.com, and the recently settled Top Agent Network lawsuit raises big questions about the future of Clear Cooperation. They debate what these moves mean for MLSs, brokers, and portals—and preview the industry shake-ups still to come.

Key Takeaways

  • MLS Reset is sold out, with Rob returning as a featured speaker.
  • Compass–Anywhere deal closes, surprising some who expected DOJ interference.
  • CoStar cuts Homes.com spending by 35%, signaling a shift in strategy but not an exit from residential.
  • Debate over Homes.com’s future: Will CoStar pivot, partner with brokerages, or rethink its model?
  • Top Agent Network settlement surfaces new guidance from NAR, suggesting TAN may not violate Clear Cooperation—potentially reshaping private-listing practices.
  • Rob and Greg strongly disagree on the long-term impact of the TAN news and the strength of private networks.
  • Upcoming injunction ruling (Zillow vs. NAR/DOJ context) may matter less than expected depending on how Compass positions itself.

Links

Compass Article

Greg Hague Guest Post

Connect with Rob and Greg

Rob’s Website 

Greg’s Website 

Watch us on YouTube

Our Sponsors:

Cotality 

Notorious VIP

The Giant Steps Job Board 

Production and Editing Services by Sunbound Studios

MLS Reset is Sold Out

Many thanks for your support. Looking forward to putting on a great show!

Everywhere

A message from Our Chairman and CEO

“Our collective vision is to become the best in the world at empowering real estate professionals with everything they need to realize their entrepreneurial potential. What makes this moment unique is not a transaction that combines two companies – it’s that the industry’s leading brands and professionals are coming together on a single, modern technology platform that will help real estate professionals save time, grow their business, and better serve their clients.”

It’s only January 9th and I’ve already gotten one of my predictions for 2026 wrong. Oh well. Gonna be fun to watch.

See you on Tuesday!

My son was home for winter break from NYU Film School, so I put him to work.

I wrote a short script, we shot this video, and he handled the edit. I think it turned out great. Credit also to Tuesday founder Coleton Boyer, who nailed the “walk and talk,” which is harder than it looks.

Unlike traditional MLS apps, Tuesday is different by design. The goal is simple: be the first app real estate agents open in the morning.

Agents can quickly see what’s happening in the market, track activity in their farm, and share listings with clients. Instead of boring spreadsheets and endless email alerts, Tuesday turns your MLS into a clean, scrollable feed.

Agents can also follow other agents. Teammates, office mates, even rivals. That’s how cooperation actually happens.

Tuesday is the best way to unlock cooperation at your MLS.

Want to learn more?

Contact Coleton at cole@ontuesday.com

Looking for a new gig?

Regional Sales Manager – Rapattoni

“We are looking for a Regional Sales Manager with proven experience in generating new customer partnerships, conducting effective software demonstrations, negotiating and closing deals. This position will have a defined territory, customer accounts to manage, initiate renewals with our existing customers, and generate new opportunities. In this role the Regional Sales Managers will conduct compelling demonstrations of our products and travel to customers virtually and on-site. The ideal candidate will become a part of our company culture that provides excellent service to our prospects and customers.”


To find out about this job and more please visit the Giant Steps Job Board

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