CRMLS rejects Compass demands and set to open industry legal defense fund

CRMLS Rejects Compass’s Demands, Stands Firm on Cooperation and Transparency

“After reviewing Compass, Inc.’s September 8, 2026, letter demanding that CRMLS not enforce rules governing submitting properties that are listed for sale for cooperation, CRMLS rejects their demands to allow for what it
views as Compass’s advocacy for anti-competitive practices and free riding. Now, CRMLS is preparing for potential litigation while still navigating more amicable ways to resolve claims.”

So this is regarding the earlier demand letter from Compass (which many MLS received) to stop fining their agents for violating local MLS policies. Here’s the CRMLS’ Open Letter, to Compass. I’m sure CRMLS would rather not go to court but it shows a high level of frustration.

“To stand against Compass’s threats of litigation that seek to compel unfair business practices, CRMLS aims to establish an MLS Cooperation Legal Defense Fund with intent to be supported by organizations and groups concerned with consumer transparency, equal listing access, and open competition, including legal-action programs, consumer advocates, attorneys, other MLSs, associations, vendors, and portals.”

We aren’t talking defending against patent trolling here, this move would be unprecedented.

Another thing I grabbed from CRMLS, CEO Art Carter’s Op-Ed article:

“Buyers should not have to choose an agent to work with  simply to gain access to certain publicly marketed homes. Sellers should understand the potential tradeoffs of limiting how readily buyers and real estate professionals can discover and access their properties. And real estate professionals should be able to compete based on the quality of their service, not exclusive control over inventory.”

Amen.

I’m writing this from my hotel room at the CMLS Conference in Ft. Lauderdale, and Robert Reffkin will be here live for an interview on the main stage just after lunch. It’s going to be interesting.