NAR comes out swinging

Posted on June 19, 2006 by Jim Duncan

In response to today’s Consumer Federation of America’s report lambasting the real estate industry, the National Association of Realtors releases a statement that fills me with great pride:

America’s real estate industry is one of the most competitive business environments in the world, characterized by low barriers to entry, …

Is this really something that we should be proclaiming as a positive? Dammit. Thanks to Inman for the quote. Thanks to NAR for defending the profession. “It’s really competitive – anybody can do it!” (My quote)

The authors, although misguided in some ways (it seems they wrote the title – “How the Real Estate Cartel Harms Consumers and How Consumers Can Protect Themselves,” and then wrote their report), make some very valid points.

There will likely be some discussion in the next day or so about this report … one question:

Do all brokers offer services of exactly equal value?  Should novice brokers who have just received their license routinely charge the same prices of highly skilled brokers who have been practicing for decades?

No.

More analysis to come.

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About Jim Duncan

A Charlottesville Realtor who tries to stay on the bleeding/cutting/functional edge of technology and real estate trends. I have been selling real estate for the past 10 years, lived in C'Ville for twenty+ and am married to one of few Charlottesville natives left.
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  • Ray Hyde

    You need not be so defensive. Anyone can start in the profession, but not everyone succeeds.

    Congratulations.

  • http://www.realcentralva.com Jim Duncan

    Congratulations?

    The report raises several valid points and several which can be easily debunked. My ire is raised mainly by the NAR’s response touting how easy it is to become a Realtor. To be successful (and not get sued), one has to work hard, smart, diligently and develop and nurture relationships.

    In my opinion, the good works of many are devalued by the ease of which one can gain one’s license. Constant education is another aspect that is not given enough value among many.