OLYMPIA, Wash. – Lawmakers in Olympia are reviewing a bill designed to make home sales more equitable and accessible to everyone. The proposed legislation would prohibit private home listings unless properties are also marketed to the general public.
The bill, discussed in committee on Friday, aims to prevent real estate brokers from offering homes exclusively to select groups unless the listings are visible to all potential buyers. State Senator Marko Liias emphasized the bill’s role in promoting fairness for buyers and renters.
“We want an open market. Those of us that believe in free enterprise believe that there should be no barriers to these market transactions. Everybody should have access to this information, opportunities, this preserves that fair market competition that will give all Washingtonians a chance to pursue that dream of home ownership without barriers and unfair access to competition,” said Liias.
Additionally, the bill introduces new disclosures for certain short sales and establishes rules for dual agents. Supported by the influential Washington Realtors trade group, the bill includes an exception for cases where listings might pose a threat to an owner’s health or safety.
Fair housing advocates argue that private listings raise discrimination concerns. A study from Bright MLS indicates that public competition can help sellers achieve better prices.
