When Fine Print Hits the Fan

When Fine Print Hits the Fan

Author: Rob Hahn and Greg Robertson October 22, 2025 Duration: 1:00:23

The Industry Relations Podcast is now available on your favorite podcast player!

Overview

In this episode, Rob and Greg dive into the controversy surrounding CRMLS's End User License Agreement (EULA) and the debate over MLS data ownership. The discussion begins with updates in the MLS world that brought attention to how CRMLS's EULA—originally updated for two-factor authentication—resurfaced older language asserting MLS ownership of listing data. Rob argues that this fundamental change to broker data rights was poorly communicated, while Greg defends CRMLS, emphasizing the operational benefits and the long-standing nature of the clause. The two debate whether brokers were properly informed, what this means for data copyright, and if MLSs should have done more outreach when the change occurred.

Key Takeaways

  • Origin of the Issue: CRMLS's update around two-factor authentication drew attention to older language asserting MLS ownership of listing data.

  • Miscommunication Fallout: Many brokers—and even industry insiders—were unaware of this language, leading to confusion and criticism.

  • Refkin's Role: Compass CEO Robert Reffkin's public posts sparked renewed scrutiny, prompting industrywide debate about transparency and data rights.

  • Ownership vs. Protection: Rob questions whether MLSs need to claim ownership to protect data; Greg argues it benefits brokers by organizing and monetizing data more effectively.

  • Governance Concerns: Rob challenges whether MLS boards can alter members' property rights without broader consent; Greg notes such changes are vetted by directors and attorneys.

  • Communication Failure: Both agree MLSs must improve how they notify and educate brokers about major policy shifts.

  • Potential Next Steps: Rob suggests bringing CRMLS's Ed Zorn and an affected broker on a future episode to clarify the rationale and implications.

Links

Inman Article

The Education of Mr. Reffkin

The MLS Is Taking a Fateful Step: Who Owns the Listing?

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


Industry Relations is a weekly conversation hosted by Rob Hahn, also known as The Notorious ROB, and Greg Robertson. It operates at a unique crossroads, examining where the business of real estate collides with and is reshaped by new technology. This isn't a surface-level tech review; the discussion comes from an insider's perspective, built on years of direct experience within the field. Each episode delves into the practical implications of software platforms, shifting market data, and emerging business models that are actively changing how properties are bought, sold, and managed. The hosts analyze trends, debate strategies, and often challenge conventional wisdom, providing a nuanced look at the forces driving change. Listening to this podcast offers a deeper understanding of the operational and entrepreneurial challenges faced by professionals navigating this evolving landscape. You'll hear specific case studies, evaluations of new tools, and forward-looking predictions about what's next for the industry. The tone is direct and informed, reflecting the hosts' deep background, making it essential for anyone invested in the future of real estate as a business. Tune in for thoughtful, weekly analysis that goes beyond the headlines.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Industry Relations
Podcast Episodes
Who's Your Daddy? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:09:00
In this episode of Industry Relations, Rob and Greg react to Zillow's announcement that listings violating the Clear Cooperation Policy (CCP) will no longer be allowed on its platform. They discuss how this move could im…
Does Size Matter? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:47
In this episode of Industry Relations, Rob and Greg analyze the latest developments in the Clear Cooperation Policy (CCP) and its impact on brokerages, MLSs, and the industry at large. They also discuss how exclusive inv…
Clear as mud [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:08
In this episode of Industry Relations, Rob and Greg break down the big news about the Clear Cooperation Policy (CCP) and what its potential changes could mean for the future of real estate. They discuss the DOJ's ongoing…
Has the fat lady sung on CCP? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:02:15
**This podcast was recorded the Friday BEFORE the announcement from NAR on CCP** In this episode of Industry Relations, Rob and Greg dissect the latest drama surrounding NAR's Clear Cooperation Policy (CCP), the DOJ's st…
Organized Real Estate's Head Spinning Week [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 53:18
In this episode of Industry Relations, Rob and Greg break down three major real estate bombshells—the rumored Compass acquisition of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices (BHHS), the Redfin-Rocket merger, and the potential sha…
More questions than answers [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:04:04
In this episode of Industry Relations, Rob and Greg tackle three major industry shake-ups: Gary Keller selling a stake in Keller Williams, REX losing its lawsuit against NAR and Zillow, and the launch of a new NAR altern…
The Duel over Dual Agency [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:22
In this episode of Industry Relations, Rob and Greg dive into the controversy surrounding dual agency, private networks, and the MLS's role in protecting small brokers. They break down the industry's long-standing accept…
Let Freedom Ring! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:48
In this episode of Industry Relations, Rob and Greg break down the latest in the ongoing battle over NAR's three-way agreement and how Phoenix Realtors' recent compromise with NAR might reshape the industry. They explore…
Live from the Virtual MLS Summit its Rob and Greg! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:49
Overview In this special live episode of Industry Relations, Rob and Greg broadcast from the Virtual MLS Summit, where they tackle one of the biggest questions in real estate today: What does "cooperation" mean in a post…
What to do about Zombies [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:41
In this episode of Industry Relations, Rob and Greg dive into one of the most heated debates yet—was NAR's fight for survival a necessary battle, or did it do more harm than good? They analyze the fallout from the settle…