# Homebuyers feel cheated by secret listings

> Homebuyers report secret property listings benefit brokers and leave them unaware of matching homes.
- Title: Homebuyers feel cheated by secret listings · New York Post
- Summary: Homebuyers report secret property listings benefit brokers and leave them unaware of matching homes. Homebuyers believe private property listings benefit…
- Keywords: homebuyers, secret property listings, real estate agents, zillow, pocket listings, compass, crmls, news, entertainment, feel, cheated, secret
- Source: New York Post — https://nypost.com/2026/10/19/real-estate/homebuyers-feel-cheated-by-secret-property-listings
- Published: 2026-10-19T20:36:18+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: homebuyers, secret property listings, real estate agents, zillow, pocket listings, compass, crmls, news, entertainment
## Homebuyers suspect secret listings
Nearly three-quarters of homebuyers believe private property listings benefit real estate agents.
## Private listings cause frustration
Roughly 40% of homebuyers say they would feel cheated if a home matching their needs sold without their knowledge.
## Private listings impact sellers
Homes sold through private listings typically fetch 1.3% less than publicly listed properties, costing sellers $4,230 per transaction.
## Sellers gain privacy but lose competition
Private home sales offer sellers greater privacy but may limit competition among buyers.
## Compass sues CRMLS
Compass filed an antitrust lawsuit against California Regional Multiple Listing Service over restrictions on property marketing.
## Homebuyers remain reliant on agents
85% of buyers used an agent during their purchase, while 78% believed their agent’s commission was fair.
## Key takeaway

Homebuyers believe private property listings benefit real estate agents and may feel cheated by missing out on homes.