Tracy Kasper Steps Down as President of National Association of Realtors

Tracy Kasper, the president of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), has announced her departure from the organization. Kevin Sears, the president-elect, will take over the role with immediate effect, according to a statement released by the NAR on Monday.

The decision comes after Kasper informed the NAR's leadership team that she had received a threat concerning a personal matter. The threat demanded that she compromise her position at the NAR. However, Kasper stood firm and refused to comply with the demand. She promptly reported the threat to law enforcement.

Despite her resilience, Kasper felt that it was in the best interest of the organization for her to step down. The NAR expressed deep concern about any attempt to undermine its governance and stated that measures are being taken to protect its integrity moving forward.

Kasper had only recently taken on the role of president, assuming office in late August 2023 as a replacement for Kenny Parcell, who resigned amid allegations of sexual harassment. Parcell's resignation followed an investigation by the New York Times into multiple claims made against him.

This is the third high-profile departure from the NAR in the past year, as it also witnessed the early retirement of CEO Bob Goldberg.

The organization's troubled period coincides with increased legal scrutiny surrounding its practices and those of real-estate brokerages. Specifically, attention is being directed at the structure of agents' commissions and the control exerted by the NAR and brokerages over the Multiple Listing Service, where most homes are listed for sale.

In response to her decision to step down, Kasper stated, "Given the recent threat and the significance of this moment for myself, my family, and the organization, it is once again necessary for me to prioritize the interests of the NAR." She further added, "With a mix of gratitude and a heavy heart, I hereby submit my resignation as your president, effective immediately."