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A year ago, the Pennsylvania Association of Realtors announced the installation of its first black president, W. Preston Moore. However, Moore was later suspended and joined agents and brokers in suing the National Association of Realtors over the requirement to become a Realtor for MLS access.
On Nov. 25, Moore filed a lawsuit against NAR, state Realtor associations, and others for discriminatory practices, antitrust violations, forced membership, and civil rights violations, particularly affecting minority professionals.
The suit challenges NAR’s requirement for agents and brokers to join local, state, and national Realtor associations to access MLS listings. It also addresses the rule enforced by many Realtor-affiliated MLSs that mandates NAR membership for MLS access.
W. Preston Moore
Moore’s suit aims to address the limitations on market access and competition caused by NAR’s practices, especially impacting minority and lower-income professionals.
The complaint also names several defendants, including PAR CEO Michael McGee and other key individuals, highlighting the unequal enforcement of ethical standards and lack of support for minority members.
Similar to other suits filed in different states, Moore’s complaint alleges discrimination, monopoly establishment, and violations of federal acts and constitutional rights.
The complaint seeks a jury trial, court orders declaring the defendants’ actions unlawful, injunctions for equitable treatment, Moore’s reinstatement as PAR president, and damages.
McGee stated that PAR does not comment on pending litigation, and further responses from NAR and Moore are awaited.
Read the complaint: