I’m working on a fairly significant series, so didn’t have time to publish this week. But I thought I would do a very quick hot take on this:
On local autonomy, there’s broad support — 68% of all respondents favor more local policy discretion, and among MLS-only executives that jumps to 85%. That aligns pretty well with the sweeping MLS Handbook changes NAR pushed through late last year. But support for autonomy and comfort with autonomy are two different things. As NAR steps back from its traditional rulemaking role, local organizations are navigating uncertain legal territory without much of a safety net. One exec put it plainly: every policy is now under careful review “to ensure we aren’t the next target.”
The organizations that thrive will be the ones that treat this new autonomy as an opportunity rather than a burden.
As I’m sure you know, Greg is my brother from another mother, and one of my favorite people in the industry. As I’m sure you know, we argue with each other all the time on Industry Relations. It’s a big of a running joke at this point.
This time, it’s different.
No it isn’t. It’s not different at all. Greg is likely correct that 85% of MLS-only executives favor more local policy discretion. I merely point out the obvious: 85% of MLSs are going away in the not-too-distant future.
It is a math problem, and one that the MLSs who want independence are gonna have to figure out. Just like kids who graduate college, get their first job, love the freedom and the independence and think, “Finally! I’m an adult!” Until tax time comes, rent is due, and the bills start piling up. Until you have to clean your apartment, do the dishes, and make the food. Then adulting sucks.
Let’s get into it real quick.
