On this episode of Closed!, recorded live at The Real Deal Forum, Lee and Mike sit down with Bess Freedman, CEO of Brown Harris Stevens, one of the most prominent privately held real estate firms in the country, to discuss one of the most contested debates in residential real estate right now: private listing networks.
Bess brings decades of perspective to the conversation, from her early days as an assistant state’s attorney and legal aid lawyer to leading one of New York’s most storied brokerages. She breaks down exactly what private listing networks are, why she believes they hurt sellers and buyers alike, and why Brown Harris Stevens has chosen not to play the game despite having the network size to do so.
She also shares her thoughts on price discovery, fiduciary duty, the states already moving to outlaw the practice, and why she thinks the whole thing is, in her words, a bunch of malarkey.
If you work in residential real estate or are thinking about buying or selling a home, this one is essential listening.
What does this mean? Simply this: when you engage us, we are fully invested in arriving at the best possible outcome for you. Advocating for your interests becomes our number one priority from the moment you call us until long after the contract is signed or decision rendered.
The purchase or sale of real estate is a major financial transaction in a person or company’s life. A real estate transaction is a contract where the terms of the documents will determine your rights, so it is essential to take an aggressive approach to the negotiation and drafting of these documents. Failing to do so could cause the loss of significant value and may bind you to unfavorable terms.
Especially in a high-priced market such as NYC, it is important to approach these transactions with help from a dedicated attorney. Property transactions require disciplined attention to detail as well as in-depth knowledge of the law. Let a New York City real estate lawyer protect your rights and preserve your best interests.
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