Clear Cooperation moves closer to its future 

The much-debated Clear Cooperation Policy moves closer to a decision tomorrow, as a key National Association of Realtors group resumes its deliberation on the topic.

At its meeting last month, the MLS Technology and Emerging Issues Advisory Board "weighed a wide range of perspectives including buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals, as well as fair housing principles, as they considered how to best meet these evolving stakeholder needs," according to an NAR statement.

The CCP could stay as it is, go away entirely or undergo some sort of evolution. And there are multiple paths to conclusion, including one that runs through the NAR Leadership Team, and one through the organization's nearly 1,000-member board of directors.

How we got here: The Clear Cooperation policy, which requires brokers to enter listing information on the MLS within one business day of publicly listing a property, has attracted the attention of the Department of Justice and has triggered a wave of reaction within the industry.

Those in favor of the policy say CCP could benefit from some alterations but is fundamental to the health of the broader marketplace for homes. 

Those against the policy argue that it is an arbitrary rule that constrains free enterprise and creates legal risk. 

What's next: The Oct. 25 meeting of the MLS Technology and Emerging Issues Advisory Board could trigger more meetings, including potentially with the Executive Committee, which could approve the changes or allow NAR's board of directors to determine the policy's fate. 

Or, under "certain circumstances" such as timing and confidentiality concerns, a decision might be made by NAR President Kevin Sears and the rest of the Leadership Team, according to a message from Sears shared earlier this month with MLS executives.

Real Estate News has reached out to NAR for comment.