A Closer Look at Open Access in Washington Real Estate
RM Home Specialists • January 16, 2026

Why public home listings matter for buyers and sellers alike.

One of the reasons I’m proud to work with Windermere Real Estate is that our values show up not just in how we market homes, but in the positions we take as an industry leader.


Right now, Washington lawmakers are considering Senate Bill 6091, a proposed law that would require residential homes to be marketed publicly, rather than quietly shared with a limited or exclusive group. Windermere has been clear in its support of this effort, alongside Washington REALTORS®. Because at its core, this isn’t about politics. It’s about protecting consumers and preserving trust in real estate.


What the Proposed Law Is Aiming to Do:

SB 6091 is designed to ensure that when a home is for sale, it’s marketed openly and made accessible through the MLS so all qualified buyers and brokers have the same opportunity to participate.


In simple terms: No quiet side doors. No restricted access. No hidden opportunities.

This reinforces something we’ve always believed. Real estate works best when it’s transparent, cooperative, and fair.


Why This Matters to Our Team:

We have always practiced and preached full visibility and informed decision-making. Sellers deserve the broadest possible exposure for their homes. Buyers deserve to know about every option available, not just the ones circulating in private circles.


When homes are marketed publicly:

  • Sellers benefit from true market exposure and demand
  • Buyers can compete on equal footing
  • Pricing reflects real conditions, not limited visibility
  • Trust stays intact throughout the process


Private or exclusive listing networks may sound appealing, but limiting exposure often limits opportunity—and that’s not something we’re comfortable with for our clients.


What This Means If You’re Selling:

If you’re selling a home, your equity matters. Public marketing ensures your home is positioned to reach every qualified buyer, giving it the strongest chance to perform well in the market.


Open exposure can lead to:

  • More interest
  • Clearer feedback
  • Stronger outcomes


What This Means If You’re Buying:

If you’re buying, this proposed law is about access and peace of mind. You shouldn’t miss out on a home simply because it wasn’t widely shared.


Public listings help ensure:

  • You see the full landscape of available homes
  • You can make confident, informed decisions
  • You know you’re being treated fairly


Especially in competitive markets like ours, that level of clarity matters.


What is Senate Bill 6091?
It’s proposed Washington legislation that would require residential homes to be marketed publicly and made available through the MLS, rather than shared only within private or exclusive networks.

Why does Windermere support it?
Because it aligns with Windermere’s long-standing commitment to transparency, cooperation, and consumer protection.

Does this take choices away from sellers?
No. Sellers still control pricing, timing, and strategy. The bill focuses on how homes are marketed—ensuring full exposure and informed decisions.

Could limited marketing impact results?
It can. Reduced exposure may mean fewer buyers, less competition, and less clarity around value.

Are private listings illegal?
No—but there is growing support for ensuring residential homes are marketed publicly so buyers and sellers are protected by full transparency.

How does this benefit buyers?
Buyers gain equal access to available homes, creating a more level, trustworthy marketplace.


We’re proud to support efforts that strengthen fairness in real estate and protect the people we serve. This moment simply reinforces why those values matter.


Madison Bingham | 253-686-7383

RM Home Specialists

Licensed Managing Broker | Realtor®

Windermere West Campus


STORIES FROM HOME


"From the moment we began working with Madison and Regina, we knew we were in exceptional hands. Their gracious professionalism, deep knowledge, and genuine warmth shaped every step of our journey.


Although we’ve purchased homes before, their continual updates, thoughtful explanations, and steady, patient support made us feel genuinely cared for.
When we unexpectedly lost a property due to an unethical selling agent, they stood by us with calm, unwavering professionalism.


We wholeheartedly recommend trusting this exceptional team with life’s most important real estate milestones. Their stylish eye, family‑centered spirit, and heartfelt dedication set them apart in every way. When the day comes for a new chapter and the search for our final, forever dream home, we will undoubtedly call on Madison and Regina again." E. SANDSTROM | TACOMA, WA

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