Who Runs Bartertown?

Who Runs Bartertown?

Author: Rob Hahn and Greg Robertson December 17, 2025 Duration: 59:52

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Overview

Rob Hahn and Greg Robertson dig into the escalating conflict between Zillow and MRED over private listing networks (PLNs), IDX rules, and Zillow's Listing Access Standards (ZLAS). What starts as a dispute over listing visibility quickly becomes a deeper conversation about power: who ultimately controls listing data—the MLS or the portal? The episode explores MRED's emails to brokers, Zillow's outreach for direct feeds, potential January disruptions, and why this fight could set a precedent for MLS–portal relationships nationwide. 

Key Takeaways

  • Zillow and MRED are on a collision course over whether Zillow can selectively exclude PLN listings while still receiving IDX feeds. 

  • MRED argues selective exclusion violates its IDX rules; Zillow argues it owes transparency to sellers and consistency to its standards. 

  • Emails suggest Zillow may pursue direct broker feeds, potentially bypassing the MLS if access is cut off. 

  • The dispute is less about private listings themselves and more about control—"who runs Barter Town." 

  • Outcomes range from MLS dominance, to Zillow dominance, to a hard-to-define compromise—with major implications for brokers, sellers, and other MLSs.

Links

Zillow stalemate with Chicago's MLS looks like it's coming to a head

Mad Max Clip

 

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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

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