Titled "The Changing Real Estate Market," the comgressional hearing scheduled for July 25, 2006 is going to address the role of the internet on the market, innovative brokerage models (like flat fee MLS and home buyer rebate brokerages), MLS’s, and the effect of minimum service laws. The hearing comes on the heals of a consent agreement between the Austin, Texas Association and the Federal Trade Commission, New Mexico rescinding minimum service laws, the overturning of real estate rebate laws in South Carolina, and the ongoing litigation between the National Association of Realtors and the Department of Justice. Needless to say, the hearing will have a serious impact on the future of the industry. Representatives from NAR, the DOJ, the FTC, the Consumer Federation of America among others are expected to testify.

See Also