Clear Cooperation Policy: The Next Big Fight in Real Estate
The Clear Cooperation Policy (CCP) is stirring up serious debate in the real estate world—and for good reason. Introduced by the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) in 2019, this rule affects how agents market homes, how buyers find them, and who controls access to property information.
What Is the Clear Cooperation Policy?
The policy requires that if a real estate agent publicly markets a listing in any way—through social media, flyers, email campaigns, websites, yard signs, or private networks—they must submit that listing to their local MLS (Multiple Listing Service) within one business day.
In short: if you publicly market a home, you must list it on the MLS.
The goal of the CCP is to increase transparency, fairness, and access. For years, agents—especially in high-end markets—used “pocket listings” to market properties quietly within private circles before making them public (if at all).
NAR’s intention with the CCP was to make sure all buyers get a fair chance to see homes being marketed—and to preserve the MLS as the most complete and accurate source of listings.
Who Does It Help?
Buyers, especially those without inside access, now have a better shot at seeing everything that's truly on the market.
Smaller brokerages and independent agents benefit from a level playing field.
The public MLS system is strengthened, as listings flow through a central, regulated platform.
Who Does It Hurt?
Luxury and top-producing agents, who often use private marketing strategies to offer sellers discretion or exclusivity.
Sellers who want to test the market quietly or keep their home sale private.
Brokerages building alternative listing platforms, who see this rule as stifling competition and innovation.
Critics argue that the policy limits consumer choice and forces sellers into the MLS system—even when it may not be in their best interest.
Why Is This the Next Big Fight?
The CCP is now the subject of lawsuits and legal challenges. Opponents claim the rule violates antitrust laws by restricting how agents and brokerages can operate and market homes.
Meanwhile, NAR and MLS organizations defend the policy, saying it promotes fairness, protects buyers, and prevents “insider” deals that leave many people out of the loop.
As the industry undergoes major shifts—especially following the 2024–2025 commission lawsuits—tensions around control, data, and market access are rising. The Clear Cooperation Policy sits right in the middle of that fight.
Courts will likely decide over the next couple years whether the rule is a fair industry standard, or an overreach that restricts innovation.
No matter the outcome, this policy has already forced agents and brokerages to rethink how they operate.
In summary
Whether you see it as a win for transparency or a block to creativity and privacy, the Clear Cooperation Policy is changing the way homes are marketed—and it’s not going away quietly.
For agents, buyers, and sellers alike, it’s worth paying close attention. Because what happens next could reshape real estate for everyone.
