Reffkin Compares NAR and MLSs to NCAA in Odd Op-Ed

Compass CEO Robert Reffkin recently penned an op-ed in which he compared the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and multiple listing services (MLSs) to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). The analogy, which dragged the world of real estate into the contentious realm of college sports and the fight for name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights, has raised eyebrows and sparked criticism.

Reffkin's comparison centers around the NCAA's role in regulating the use of student-athletes' NIL, which has recently come under scrutiny and sparked a debate about fairness and exploitation. Reffkin argues that NAR and MLSs, like the NCAA, also hold a monopoly over their respective industries and limit the earning potential of their members.

However, many have pointed out the flaws in Reffkin's analogy. Unlike student-athletes, real estate agents are independent contractors and have the freedom to choose which brokerage they work with and how they market themselves. Additionally, unlike the NCAA, NAR and MLSs do not prevent agents from earning additional income through endorsements or sponsorships.

Reffkin has a history of floating controversial and unconventional ideas in order to stir up conversation and challenge the status quo in the real estate industry. However, this latest comparison has been met with skepticism and criticism from Realtors and industry experts.

“It’s a weird comparison, and it’s not the first time he’s floated an odd idea to stir things up. The problem with floating odd ideas is that they don’t always hold water or move the conversation forward,” wrote