Why Agents Are Leaving Compass—And What It Says About the Ethics of Off-Market Listings
In the current real estate landscape, agents are re-evaluating the brokerages they align with—and for good reason. One of the biggest shifts we’re seeing in 2025? A lot of Compass Agents reaching out to our group of agents looking to transition out. Not just for cultural or financial reasons, but due to growing concerns about ethics, transparency, and consumer-first practices—especially surrounding the promotion of “Private Exclusives.”
I say this not as an outsider, but as someone who was once licensed under the Compass brand. And while I had respect for many of the professionals I worked alongside, I’m increasingly uncomfortable with where things appear to be heading.
Let’s Talk About the Clear Cooperation Policy
The Clear Cooperation Policy (CCP), created by NAR, exists to ensure fair access to listings, create a level playing field for buyers and agents, and prevent exclusionary tactics that limit exposure for sellers.
While many brokerages comply fully, Compass has continued to push its “Private Exclusive” model—a listing option that bypasses the MLS entirely and promotes limited in-house visibility.
While the policy allows for specific, rare exceptions (such as high-profile individuals requiring privacy), the broader promotion of this as a mainstream strategy raises serious concerns.
When “Exclusive” = Lower Seller Profit
Take this very public story:
A homeowner listed off-market with Compass using their Private Exclusive strategy. That initial offer fell through. When she listed publicly on the MLS, she sold for $100,000 more.
That seller’s experience highlights the core issue: how many sellers are potentially underselling their largest asset due to a model that limits exposure in the name of exclusivity?
While off-market selling may benefit less than 1% of homeowners—such as public figures or individuals requiring discretion—it’s not a model that should be promoted as better or smarter for the average seller.
Why the Push for Private?
It’s fair to ask:
Are there financial incentives for brokerages to keep deals in-house?
Is the pressure from investors driving alternative strategies to show return?
Are we seeing a drift back toward pre-MLS tactics that limit transparency and competition?
From my view, this isn’t innovation—it’s regression.
And it’s causing a number of agents to re-evaluate their brokerage alignment and ask whether the values they signed up for still align with the day-to-day reality.
Why Agents Are Moving On
Agents want:
Transparency over secrecy
Systems that build client trust, not just internal pipelines
Collaboration across brokerages—not isolation within them
Brokerages that elevate the profession, not sidestep its standards
That’s why many are turning to models like eXp Realty, where cooperation and growth aren’t just buzzwords—they’re baked into the business model.
What We Do Differently at eXp (and on My Team)
On my team, and in alignment with eXp’s platform:
We prioritize MLS-first selling for optimal exposure and top-dollar outcomes
We don’t promote off-market listings as a “strategy” unless it’s truly necessary
We believe in clear, cooperative representation that puts the seller first
We coach our agents to lead with ethics, clarity, and full transparency
We welcome outside agents into the process—because clients win when the market is open
Whether you’re in Ambler, Greater Philadelphia, or anywhere in Pennsylvania, this is the kind of business you can be proud to build.
Let’s Talk About Your Options
If you’re a Compass agent—or any agent—who’s starting to feel misaligned with your current brokerage, you’re not alone. Let’s explore your options together, confidentially and honestly.
Schedule a 1-on-1 call: https://calendly.com/agentshainamc
Email me directly: Shaina@MontcoLiving.com
Disclaimer:
This blog reflects my personal experience and opinions as a licensed real estate professional. It is not intended as legal advice or a personal attack on any individual or company. References to policies and public cases are included to educate and promote transparent best practices in the real estate industry.
Real estate works best in the open. Let’s be the professionals who keep it that way.
