Every Friday, we round up the most popular, most read, most critical stories of the week to give you a quick catchup on the big headlines you might have missed in the hustle and bustle of the workweek. Here’s this week’s Top 5 as chosen by our readers.
P.S. Don’t miss The Download, our weekly column that breaks down one of the week’s top stories and equips you with what you’ll need to meet next Monday head-on.
Florida firm granted $24K after buyer breaks broker agreement
Credit: Canva
Echo Fine Properties took a homebuyer to arbitration this year, after learning the buyer purchased a property with another firm’s agent in violation of their buyer broker agreement, and was awarded $24,000.
The 9 podcasts agents should be listening to right now
Great podcasts provide better ideas and consistent inspiration, Jimmy Burgess writes, two things every real estate needs going into 2026.
Fed cuts rates for 3rd time in 2025, but might cut just once next year
Jerome Powell
The 9-3 split vote reflects differing views on whether the central bank’s biggest worry is inflation or rising unemployment, with data lagging after the government shutdown.
Buyer’s agent commissions see rebound in wake of settlement
Credit: Canva
The average buyer’s agent commission was 2.42 percent during the third quarter, which is still below averages from 2023, but higher than rates following the announcement about industry practice changes after the NAR settlement.
Zillow to partner agents: Recent litigation misrepresents us
Credit: Zillow and Canva
In an email and video message sent to Preferred agents on Thursday, the company’s head of Zillow Preferred answered frequently asked questions and reassured agents that legal experts review all programs.
