Manage episode 492201275 series 3675273
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What happens when one of the world's most prestigious news organizations publishes a deeply flawed hit piece on an entire profession? That's exactly what Declan Spring and guest, José Fernández, addresses in this response to The New York Times Daily podcast episode "The Housing Market Has New Rules. Realtors Are Evading Them."
They examine and dismantle the NYT's reporting, exposing fundamental misunderstandings about how real estate actually works in America. From the false portrayal of NAR as a regulatory body to the complete omission of the Buyer Representation and Broker Compensation Agreements that now create unprecedented transparency in the industry, this episode reveals how biased framing and selective reporting can create a dangerously misleading narrative.
Together, they walk through how buyer representation actually works, why the "dreaded 6%" commission myth needs to die, and the critical difference between market education and the serious ethical violation of steering. Their exchange offers listeners a rare glimpse into the nuts and bolts of real estate practice that most reporting glosses over.
Beyond defending a profession of 1.5 million Americans unfairly characterized as a "cartel," Declan outlines the real barriers to housing affordability—from supply shortages and restrictive zoning to the insurance crisis and stagnant wages—and makes a case that scapegoating real estate professionals for systemic problems only distracts from meaningful solutions.
Whether you're a real estate professional frustrated by persistent misconceptions about your work or a consumer trying to navigate the complex world of buying and selling property, this episode delivers the context, clarity, and honest analysis that was missing from the original reporting. Join us for a defense of transparency and accuracy—not just in real estate, but in journalism too.
José Fernández is a licensed CA REALTOR® DRE#01353359
Declan Spring is a licensed CA REALTOR® DRE#01398898
Chapters
1. NYT's Biased Reporting on Realtors (00:00:00)
2. Factual Errors and Omissions (00:04:40)
3. Debunking the 6% Commission Myth (00:08:13)
4. Conversation with Realtor José Fernández (00:11:20)
5. Breaking Down Broker Compensation Agreements (00:22:14)
6. Addressing Housing Affordability Issues (00:31:48)
60 episodes