There has been a lot of press lately given to the varying pricing and fee models in the Real Estate industry.

The actual issue would seem to be more about not 'which' model is correct, or even best - but rather is there room in the industry (read: industry minds, consumer tolerance) for more than one model to be successful on a broad scale.

Points to consider:

1. The landscape of information availability (listings, parcel info, historical data, appraisal, etc.) is changing every day - does this negate the previous commission-based models of 5%-7% -- which was largely based upon the agent or broker's ability to provide access to that information?
2. Will the marketplace maintain the current models? - or will the changing economies in national, regional, and local markets be more suited (and subsequently more welcoming) to new models such as Redfin and others?
3. Are flat-fee and 'A la carte' brokerage models gaining any marketshare, or will they continue to attract only their current minor market segment?
4. What about broker consultation models - is a new 'paid for service' model emerging that could replace existing commission(s) and offer a viable alternative to both client (buyer/seller) and Agent/Broker?

The answers at this point are more opinion than fact - don't get me wrong, there are facts galore to quote; but it will take time to sort out the truth. In the end, there will always be room for the innovators.

Every change in technology, the economy - even in legislation - will bring about bold new approaches to managing the Real Estate Transaction, which is to the majority of us the largest financial and emotional investment we will make in our lifetimes.

Sound off on the items above - let us know what you are thinking.

Share your opinions with a truly global audience of your peers, and Thank You in advance for your insights, thoughts, and valuable assessments!

-Todd and the MyREALTY.com Team