The real estate industry has a trust problem. Consumers trust real estate agents with some of the biggest financial decisions of their lives. So why is public trust in the industry declining? According to Samson Properties CEO Donny Samson, many of the biggest threats aren’t coming from outside the industry; they’re coming from within.

In this episode of Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered, Samson discusses the growing credibility problem facing real estate. From private listing networks and industry infighting to confusing rules, lawsuits and consumer perception, Samson shares why the industry may be creating many of its own trust issues.

He also dives into brokerage leadership, AI, work-life balance, MLS cooperation and what agents can do to strengthen relationships with the people who matter most: their clients.

Highlights

The discussion covers:

  • The controversy surrounding private listing networks
  • Why cooperation has always been the foundation of real estate
  • The growing disconnect between industry leaders and everyday agents
  • Why public trust matters more than ever
  • How agents can stay relevant in an increasingly automated world

Samson doesn’t hold back when discussing the industry’s current challenges. He argues that constant infighting, confusing policies and competing systems are creating uncertainty not only for agents, but also for the consumers they’re supposed to serve.

At the same time, he offers a hopeful perspective on the future. While technology continues to evolve rapidly, he believes the agents who focus on trust, relationships and delivering value will continue to thrive.

If you’ve been trying to make sense of private listings, MLS debates, industry consolidation or the role of AI in real estate, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Connect with Donny Samson on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, and learn more about Samson Properties on Facebook.

Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered is now exclusively on Inman. Tune in for agent- and team-focused content on Mondays and leadership interviews on Wednesdays each week. Listen on Apple or Spotify.

James Dwiggins is the president of NextHome, Inc. and co-host of Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered.

Keith Robinson is the president of strategy at NextHome, Inc. and co-host of Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered.

Follow Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered Podcast on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook or TikTok, and subscribe to their YouTube Channel.

The views and opinions expressed on Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered are those of the hosts and guests in their personal capacities and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of eXp World Holdings, Inc., eXp Realty, LLC, NextHome, Inc., or any of their respective affiliates, subsidiaries, officers, or directors. 

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