Just back from Inman Connect New York 2025, and wow, what a whirlwind! This year’s event felt different. The shadow of the 2024 antitrust lawsuits seems to be lifting, replaced by a sense of cautious optimism. While challenges undoubtedly remain, the conversations buzzed with potential opportunities for real estate professionals.
Hot Topics Dominated the Conversation:
- AI Everywhere: AI was the undisputed star, with Rocket.com’s new AI-assisted search portal generating major excitement. The theme of agents who leverage technology (especially Excel!) versus those who struggle resonated throughout the conference.
- Realtor.com’s Evolution: Realtor.com showcased its commitment to enhanced visualization of listings and maps, signaling a push to stay ahead of the competition.
- Clear Cooperation Still a Hot Potato: The debate around Clear Cooperation raged on, highlighting the deep divisions within the industry on this issue.
- Zillow’s Warning Shot: Zillow made it clear: consumers demand transparency, and if organized real estate doesn’t deliver, they will. This put pressure on the industry to adapt and prioritize consumer needs.
- Mortgage Rates and AI’s Impact: The consensus on mortgage rates? No significant relief is in sight. However, discussions around AI’s potential to transform the mortgage process, making it more equitable and consumer-friendly, offered a glimmer of hope.
- Commissions in the Spotlight: With the major antitrust lawsuits settled, the conversation around commissions shifted. While some agents still fear declines, others see opportunities for increased earnings through transparent service and skilled negotiation. The possibility of top performers commanding higher commissions was a recurring theme.
Key Takeaways & Themes:
- Commissions in Flux: The settlement’s impact on commission structures remains a key concern. The focus is now on demonstrating value and justifying fees, with potential for increased earnings for those who excel.
- Beyond Litigation Fatigue: While the resolution of major lawsuits is positive, many are weary of ongoing legal battles. The idea of making commission sharing unethical was proposed as a way to finally move past this issue.
- The Professional Edge: The conference underscored the rising importance of professionalism. Agents must clearly articulate their value proposition and justify their fees. This is a positive development that could elevate the entire industry.
- NAR’s Path Forward: NAR CEO Nykia Wright’s presence was significant. Her focus on transparency and a “turnaround” for the organization resonated with attendees. How NAR navigates the post-settlement landscape will be crucial.
- A Balanced Perspective: Despite the overall optimism, Redfin’s polling data reminds us that anxieties about commission declines and increased negotiation persist. The industry isn’t out of the woods yet.
The Bottom Line:
With the legal cloud lifting, the real estate industry is entering a new era. The emphasis is now on adapting to the changing rules, embracing technology, and providing exceptional service. Transparency, professionalism, and strong negotiation skills are more critical than ever. While challenges remain, the overall sentiment suggests a readiness to move forward.
Turning Inspiration into Action: Your Post-Conference Plan
Conferences like Inman Connect are fantastic for inspiration, but the real value comes from implementation. Don’t let those brilliant ideas gather dust! Here’s a 4-step plan to maximize your conference ROI:
Network Like a Pro: Follow up with the people you met within a week. A quick email mentioning a specific conversation can solidify connections and open doors for future collaboration.
Shine on Social Media: Share your key takeaways and insights. This showcases your commitment to professional development and positions you as a knowledgeable resource.
Actionable Notes: Transform your notes into a concrete action plan. Break down big goals into smaller tasks, set deadlines, and find an accountability partner. Checklists are your friend!
Act Now, Win the Day: Don’t procrastinate! Prioritize your action steps and start implementing them immediately. Consistent action is the key to turning conference inspiration into real-world results. Go out there and make it happen!
