eXp’s New Consumer Choice Standard: What It Means for Agents, TCs, and the Future of Client Advocacy

The real estate industry is undergoing a constant transformation. Rising consumer expectations, increasing regulatory scrutiny, and the demand for greater transparency are reshaping how brokerages operate. In response, eXp Realty has introduced a new Consumer Choice disclosure framework, effective December 1, 2025. This framework aims to raise professionalism, reduce confusion, and build a stronger foundation of trust between agents and consumers. While these changes generally mean more forms and paperwork, it also represents a strategic shift in how representation and consumer rights are communicated in real estate transactions.

eXp Realty's new Consumer Choice framework enhances transparency and trust in real estate transactions

What Is the New Consumer Choice Standard?

eXp’s new Consumer Choice form reinforces a simple but critical message:

Clients have the right to choose who they work with for every part of their transaction.

This includes:

• Lenders

• Escrow and title providers

• Inspectors

• Service vendors

• Any ancillary or affiliated service

The form also supports new referral-fee transparency requirements, clarifying when an agent or brokerage receives compensation for referring a service provider.

In a real estate environment where vertical integration is expanding and consumer complaints are rising, eXp is positioning itself ahead of regulators by proactively strengthening consumer protection.

Links to download eXp Affliated Business Disclosure and Consumer Choice Form

Why Transparency Matters More Than Ever

The real estate market has seen growing concerns about conflicts of interest, especially as vertical integration expands. Vertical integration occurs when brokerages own or have financial ties to service providers such as mortgage lenders or title companies. While this can offer convenience, it also raises questions about impartiality and whether consumers are truly free to choose the best providers for their needs.

Consumer complaints have increased in this environment, prompting regulators to demand clearer documentation and stronger consumer protections. eXp Realty’s new framework anticipates these demands by proactively enhancing transparency and consumer rights.

This approach benefits everyone involved:

• Consumers gain clarity and control over their choices.

• Agents build stronger, trust-based relationships.

• Brokerages reduce disputes and regulatory risks.

Meeting Industry Needs with Clear Documentation

The real estate industry is evolving rapidly, and brokerages must adapt to meet new expectations. eXp Realty’s new Consumer Choice framework addresses five key needs:

• Higher standards of transparency in agent and broker representation

• Clearer communication about compensation and referral fees

• Consumer empowerment in vendor selection

• Reduced ambiguity to minimize disputes and misunderstandings

• Alignment with national best practices and regulatory trends

  
  

By meeting these needs, eXp Realty positions itself as a leader in ethical real estate practices. Agents who adopt this framework will stand out as professionals who prioritize client interests and clear communication.

Practical Examples of the Framework in Action

Imagine a homebuyer working with an eXp Realty agent. Before, the buyer might have felt unsure about why a particular lender or inspector was recommended. With the new Consumer Choice form, the agent explains that the buyer can choose any lender or inspector they prefer. The form also discloses if the agent receives a referral fee for recommending a specific lender.

This transparency helps the buyer feel confident that their agent is acting in their best interest, not just steering them toward affiliated providers. It also encourages the buyer to compare options and select services that best meet their needs.

For agents, this framework provides a clear process to discuss vendor choices and compensation openly, reducing the risk of misunderstandings or complaints later.

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How Transaction Coordinators Will Implement the New Standard

Transaction Coordinators play a crucial role in compliance, and this policy change affects the entire flow of a file.

TCs will now be responsible for:

• Uploading Consumer Choice form to broker and checking for signatures

• Verifying referral-fee disclosures are included when applicable

• Updating checklist templates to align with eXp’s December 2025 policy change

• Flagging missing forms before file submission

• Helping agents maintain consistent disclosure practices

For agents who do not use a TC—or who rely heavily on their TC—this is the moment to tighten systems.

Learn more: What Is a TC?

The Consumer Choice form is not about compliance for compliance’s sake. It’s about raising the level of professionalism in an industry that desperately needs it.

Agents who embrace transparency will earn trust.Teams that integrate these forms into their workflows will operate smoother.And brokerages that lead in consumer advocacy will outperform those who lag behind.

This is the direction real estate is moving—and the professionals who adapt quickly will set the standard for the future.