Episode 228 - Tommy Choi

Agent Series 39: Zillow vs. MRED “We’re Collateral Damage”

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The Zillow vs. MRED battle is no longer behind closed doors. It’s public.  It’s messy.

And according to Chicago broker Tommy Choi, agents are becoming “collateral damage.”

In this episode of Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered, James Dwiggins and Keith Robinson sit down with Tommy Choi who is a top-producing broker, Keller Williams franchise owner, and MRED board member, to break down what’s actually happening between Zillow and MRED.

Because this isn’t just about listing syndication. It’s about private listing networks, MLS control, brokerage power, consumer access, and who owns the future of inventory.

Tommy explains how MRED’s PLN (Private Listing Network) has existed since 2016, why Zillow’s new policy created tension, and why many agents feel caught in the middle of a much larger battle.

But this conversation goes even deeper.

Tommy shares one of the best branding analogies we’ve ever heard on the show: “Nike is a brand. Hyatt is a logo.”

And his point is powerful:

Most agents are building dependence on company logos instead of building brands consumers actually trust.

This episode dives into:

  • Why MRED created its PLN years ago
  • The danger of brokerage-controlled inventory
  • Why agents are becoming collateral damage
  • The future of MLS consolidation
  • Why most agents aren’t building real brands

If you’re confused about the Zillow vs. MRED fight or worried about where the industry is heading this is the clearest breakdown you’ll hear.

Connect with our guest, Tommy Choi:

Learn more about Weinberg Choi Residential:

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