Survey Reveals Strong Support for Clear Cooperation Policy Among Real Estate Agents

In a recent survey conducted by the California Regional Multiple Listing Service (CRMLS), it has been revealed that over 70% of active real estate agents either support or are open to the Clear Cooperation Policy (CCP). This data comes from a targeted survey which included respondents who have sold at least one property since January 1, 2026. The findings indicate a significant 58.3% of agents express their support for the policy, with 38.73% deeming themselves "extremely supportive." In comparison, only 17.24% of agents indicated they are not supportive at all, presenting a robust 2:1 ratio of supporters to detractors.

The results of this survey emerge against the backdrop of intensified focus within the real estate industry on consumer-first decision-making. At the recent T3 Sixty T3 Summit held in Orlando in April 2026, industry leader Gary Keller emphasized the importance of MLS leaders engaging directly with their audiences to align decisions with the best interests of consumers. CRMLS had anticipated this need by conducting their survey to gain insights from active market participants.

Interestingly, while 29.1% of respondents reported low support for the CCP, their written feedback suggested a more nuanced perspective. Many agents acknowledge the intent behind the CCP while expressing desires for practical modifications, particularly regarding the policy's current one-day requirement for submitting publicly marketed listings to the MLS. Respondents conveyed that they found the one-day window quite challenging, stating concerns like "One day is too short of time" and "It is extremely difficult to get your listings on that quickly."

Among the 12.5% who claimed a neutral stance, comments primarily reflected an underlying support for the policy, emphasizing principles of fairness and equal access. Remarks such as "Feels fair to require a listing be marketed to everyone at the same time" and "There should be equal access amongst all MLS listings" were prevalent, suggesting that many agents recognize the benefits of the Clear Cooperation initiative despite their neutral responses.

Moreover, the survey did prompt several agents to share their apprehensions about the growing prevalence of private listing networks. While not directly questioned about these networks, many commented on their potential drawbacks for consumers, specifying that limiting listing exposure through private channels could hinder sellers and diminish overall market transparency. Notable feedback included sentiments like, "Private networks and keeping listings from the MLS does a disservice to the client."

Additionally, supporters of the CCP repeatedly highlighted the advantages of collaboration and full market exposure. Comments regarding cooperation underscored the belief that a more inclusive approach benefits the entire industry, with statements like, "The better we cooperate with each other, the more our industry grows in harmony," resonating among agents.

Art Carter, CEO of CRMLS, remarked that the survey underlines a crucial trend in the marketplace where real estate professionals increasingly recognize the value of transparency and cooperation. He asserted, "The Clear Cooperation Policy is not a restraint on competition—it's what enables it. It ensures listings are available to the full marketplace, creating more opportunity for buyers and better outcomes for sellers."

CRMLS maintains that the CCP sets a baseline of fairness by ensuring that publicly marketed listings are made available through the MLS, allowing for equal access to accurate and timely information for all participants. The organization is also attentive to the feedback received from agents and is dedicated to exploring ways to enhance policy implementation while staying true to the core values of cooperation and transparency present in real estate.

In summary, the CRMLS survey paints a hopeful picture for the future of real estate cooperation as the industry witnesses a growing consensus towards clearer and fairer practices. With ongoing engagement from CRMLS with its users, the alignment of policies with market realities alongside the enduring principles of transparency and equal access looks set to evolve further to meet the needs of consumers and professionals alike.

For further details regarding CRMLS and its initiatives, please visit go.crmls.org.