Jim Gillespie, CEO of Coldwell Banker was interviewed on Fox Business News the other day and defended Realtors and the positive role they play in the current housing market, as the media attempts to blame real estate agents for part of the housing mess. He promoted Coldwell Banker and the importance of having a full service agent and company such as Coldwell Banker helping people through this current market. The interview is below.
I know Jim. I've met him several times and spoken with him on a personal level. I know he is a passionate person who has a strong ethical background. Despite what I think of the National Association of Realtors and their lack of true ethics, I think Jim is a stand-up guy. Where I think he misses the point in this interview, is in NOT pointing out that it is the Realtor's JOB to help Seller get the best price for their property if they represent the Seller. And if they represent the Buyer it is their JOB to help them throughout negotiations as well as giving advice and representing them throughout the process.
If the NAR would do the right thing and stand up for federal legislation prohibiting dual-agency representation and acknowledge the ethical hypocrisy that this represents, it would go a long way to raising the public's perception of the profession as one that is truly ethical.