- Case Overview
In July 2025, Mauricio Umansky—celebrated real estate broker and founder of The Agency—refiled an antitrust lawsuit against the National Association of Realtors (NAR) through his private listing platform, ThePLS.com.(turn0search1, turn0search2, turn0search3)
The suit was originally filed in 2020 but was paused following NAR’s $418 million settlement over commission-related claims. Now, 30 minutes after that litigation freeze expired, ThePLS.com revived the case.(turn0search2, turn0search7)
- Key Legal Claims
Monopolistic Practices: The complaint alleges that NAR, along with multiple listing services (MLSs) it controls, has enforced policies that eliminate competition from private or “pocket” listing platforms like ThePLS.com.
Targeting the Clear Cooperation Policy: Central to the case is the Clear Cooperation Policy (CCP)—a rule requiring agents to publicly list homes on an MLS within one business day of marketing. Umansky argues this policy effectively shuts down alternative listing models and maintains NAR’s dominance.(turn0search2, turn0search3)
Alleged Collusion: The lawsuit claims NAR and MLSs coordinated behind closed doors—authored white papers and enforced the CCP—to suppress competitors and protect large brokerages at the expense of innovation.(turn0search2)
- Broader Industry Context
Shift Toward Transparency vs. Privacy: The suit reflects a larger battle between a traditional, transparent listing model and growing demand for discreet, private listings—notably among high-profile clients.
Ripple Effects Across the Market: Other lawsuits are underway exploring similar exclusivity practices:
Compass is suing Zillow for enforcing similar listing visibility requirements.(turn0search3)
The CCP has also been challenged by Top Agent Network, though agreement with NAR led to a temporary suspension.(turn0news17)
NAR’s Position: NAR defends the CCP as essential for buyer access and market transparency, asserting that alternatives like office-exclusive listings remain available.(turn0search2, turn0search3)
- Summary Table
Category Details
Plaintiff ThePLS.com (founded by Mauricio Umansky)
Defendant National Association of Realtors (and affiliated MLSs)
Core Allegation CCP stifles competition; NAR suppresses alternative platforms
Legal Basis U.S. federal antitrust laws under the Sherman Act
Industry Impacts Implications for listing transparency, broker competition, and innovation
Related Actions Compass vs. Zillow lawsuit; prior suit by Top Agent Network
- Significance & Outlook
Legal precedent: This case could redefine how home listings—especially off-market or private ones—are regulated and shared.
Industry dynamics: A verdict favoring ThePLS.com may incentivize greater adoption of private listing models; conversely, a win for NAR would reaffirm standardized listing practices.
Broader shift: The trial continues a wave of antitrust scrutiny targeting real estate’s long-standing gatekeepers, spotlighting calls for more open, flexible, and innovative systems.