Compass CEO Reffkin Defends Seller Choice in Real Estate Clash

June 5, 2025 | 3 mins read

Compass CEO Robert Reffkin delivered a fiery keynote at the brokerage's national retreat in Denver, declaring the debate over "choice and control" as "the most important moment in real estate history." Reffkin criticized MLSs, NAR, and real estate portals for stifling innovation and interfering with agent-client relationships.

Key Points from Reffkin's Address:

• MLSs and Associations Under Fire: Reffkin accused organized real estate of trying to block Compass' 3-phase marketing strategy, which includes private exclusives. "These organizations are not the government. They're not elected. Yet their mandatory rules interfere with your client relationships," he told 1,200 Compass agents.

• Escalating Legal Battles: Compass has clashed with MLSs and brokerages in Seattle (Windermere), California (CRMLS), and Chicago. Reffkin vowed to fight for agents' "right to choose" how they market listings.

• Tech Investment: Compass is investing $100M annually in AI tools to automate tasks like CMAs, scheduling, and lead generation. Reffkin teased a future where AI "knows what to do before you even ask."

• Opposition from Portals: Zillow and Redfin plan to block some office exclusives starting in June, escalating tensions over private listings.

Reffkin closed by reaffirming Compass' agent-centric mission: "You are my client. I work for you."

Photo credit: Alive Coverage for Compass