ARMLS & Metro MLS Deny Collusion over Aligned Showings Decision

ARMLS and Metro MLS Seek Dismissal of Zillow Antitrust Lawsuit

In a recent development, ARMLS and Metro MLS have submitted a dismissal request for an antitrust lawsuit filed by Zillow Group and ShowingTime in late December 2023. The complaint alleges that the MLS defendants are unlawfully monopolizing the market for real estate showing management services. However, the MLS defendants argue that Zillow and ShowingTime’s true grievance is that ShowingTime is now facing competition in a few regions. The motion also claims that the decision to replace ShowingTime with Aligned Showings was not made as a result of collusion. To learn more about this ongoing legal battle, read the full article here.

Background of the Antitrust Lawsuit

The lawsuit filed by Zillow Group and ShowingTime in December 2023 accuses ARMLS and Metro MLS of violating antitrust laws by exclusively offering Aligned Showings instead of ShowingTime’s services. The plaintiffs claim that this decision limits competition and results in an unfair advantage for Aligned Showings. The MLS defendants, however, argue that their decision was based on a desire to provide the best possible service to their clients and not as a result of collusion with Aligned Showings.

Arguments Presented by the MLS Defendants

In their motion to dismiss the case, ARMLS and Metro MLS claim that the plaintiffs have failed to provide any evidence of collusion or anti-competitive behavior. They argue that their decision to switch to Aligned Showings was based on a careful evaluation of the services provided by both companies and was made in the best interest of their clients. Furthermore, the defendants point out that ShowingTime continues to operate in other regions and that their decision to switch providers in certain areas does not constitute a monopoly.

Impact on the Real Estate Industry

The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for the real estate industry, particularly for real estate agents and brokerages who rely on showing management services to schedule and manage property showings. If the court finds in favor of the plaintiffs, it could potentially lead to increased competition in the market and better options for real estate professionals. However, if the defendants are successful in dismissing the case, it could set a precedent for MLS providers to exclusively offer specific services without facing legal repercussions. For more insights on the real estate industry, check out my other articles here.

What’s Next in the Legal Battle?

As the case progresses, it will be crucial to monitor any new developments and their potential impact on the real estate industry. The court’s decision could shape the landscape of showing management services and affect how real estate professionals conduct their business. Stay informed on this case and other real estate news by visiting my blog regularly.

Conclusion

As the legal battle between Zillow Group, ShowingTime, ARMLS, and Metro MLS continues, the outcome of this antitrust lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for the real estate industry. Whether the case is dismissed or proceeds to trial, the court’s decision could set a precedent for how MLS providers can offer exclusive services without facing legal repercussions. To stay up-to-date on this case and other real estate news, be sure to check out my blog.