The Zillow versus MRED battle is no longer behind closed doors. It’s public, it’s messy, and according to Chicago broker Tommy Choi, agents are becoming “collateral damage.”
In this episode of Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered, Choi, who is a top-producing broker, Keller Williams franchise owner, and MRED board member, breaks down what’s actually happening between Zillow and MRED.
Because this isn’t just about listing syndication. It’s about private listing networks, MLS control, brokerage power, consumer access and who owns the future of inventory.
Choi explains that MRED’s PLN (private listing network) has existed since 2016, how Zillow’s new policy created tension and why many agents feel caught in the middle of a much larger battle.
If you want to understand where the industry is heading, this is the episode everyone will be talking about.
Highlights
From private listing networks and Zillow’s policy changes to agent branding, MLS consolidation and the future of listing access, this conversation goes far deeper than industry drama.
Choi shares one of the best branding analogies we’ve ever heard on the show: “Nike is a brand. Hyatt is a logo.” Choi also explains why most agents are building logos rather than brands and how that mindset could hurt them in the long term.
And his point is powerful: Most agents are building dependence on company logos instead of building brands consumers actually trust.
This episode dives into:
- Why MRED created its PLN years ago
- The danger of brokerage-controlled inventory
- Why agents are becoming collateral damage
- The future of MLS consolidation
- Why most agents aren’t building real brands
If you’re confused about the Zillow versus MRED fight or worried about where the industry is heading, this is the clearest breakdown you’ll hear.
The views and opinions expressed on Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered are those of the hosts and guests in their personal capacities and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of eXp World Holdings, Inc., eXp Realty, LLC, NextHome, Inc., or any of their respective affiliates, subsidiaries, officers, or directors.
Connect with Tommy Choi on LinkedIn and Instagram.
Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered is now exclusively on Inman. Tune in for agent- and team-focused content on Mondays and leadership interviews on Wednesdays each week. Listen on Apple or Spotify.
James Dwiggins is the Co-CEO of NextHome, Inc. and co-host of Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered.
Keith Robinson is the Co-CEO of NextHome, Inc. and co-host of Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered.
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