From The Real Deal · Jonathan Miller · · 1m
Housing Notes: Compass Lawyer Up Strategy
Compass may need legal protection as 2028 election looms.
In brief
Compass may need legal protection as 2028 election looms. Compass could face antitrust scrutiny over private listings strategy ahead of 2028 election. Originally reported by The Real Deal.
Housing market shift
Compass CEO Robert Reffkin pushed private listings strategy to keep listings out of public view.
Consumer concerns
Compass could become too powerful by 2028 election, hurting competition and consumer choice.
Political shift
Democrats control both chambers of Congress starting January 2026, increasing antitrust oversight.
Compass's market power
Compass has 80 percent market share in Manhattan but lost money from 2020 to 2025.
Acquisitions strategy
Compass relies on acquisitions for growth, with Anywhere Real Estate merged in January 2026.
Legal battles
Compass is involved in 20+ lawsuits including CRMLS, Zillow, and NAR cases.
2028 election risk
Compass faces antitrust scrutiny as 2028 election approaches and political climate shifts.
At a glance
Compass could face antitrust scrutiny over private listings strategy ahead of 2028 election.
