Compass sues CRMLS over alleged anticompetitive home-marketing rules
COMP•Compass filed an antitrust lawsuit against California Regional Multiple Listing Service, challenging restrictions on publicly marketing homes outside its platform. It seeks to block the rules and recover damages, and says it will cover eligible agents’ fines of up to $2,500 under specified conditions.
1. Lawsuit challenges rules
Compass filed an antitrust lawsuit against California Regional Multiple Listing Service, alleging that its restrictions limit agents from publicly marketing homes outside Compass’s platform. The lawsuit alleges CRMLS can fine agents up to $2,500, and may suspend or expel agents who follow clients’ lawful marketing instructions.
2. Relief and fine coverage
Compass is seeking a court order blocking the rules and recovery of damages, subject to automatic tripling under antitrust law. Effective immediately, it will cover eligible agents’ CRMLS fines for client-directed marketing if agents provide written instructions and assign related legal claims.
