OLYMPIA — Bipartisan legislation ensuring Washington’s housing market remains fair and transparent was signed into law March 16.
The bill, sponsored by Sen. Marko Liias (D-Edmonds), will require real estate brokers to market residential properties for sale or rent in Washington without limiting access to select buyers or broker networks. Currently, brokers may use private listing networks, also called “pocket” listings, to market properties to exclusive groups, leaving other buyers and renters in the market with fewer options.
“When buyers and renters search for their next place to call home, they should have full confidence that Washington’s housing market is open, fair, and transparent,” Liias said. “I’m thankful for the coalition of real estate professionals who helped us deliver good legislation that levels the playing field and ensures everyone has equal access.
Realtors’ recommendations to sellers to use private listing networks have grown significantly in recent years. A 2025 Zillow/Harris Poll found that 63% of Americans who have sold a home in the past five years said their real estate agent recommended a private listing, compared to just 18% of sellers who sold a home more than five years ago.
“When families are making the biggest financial decision of their lives, they deserve a process that is transparent, accessible, and fair. SB 6091 reinforces that commitment by protecting the open marketplace Washingtonians rely on,” said Ryan Beckett, the 2026 president of Washington REALTORS.
While the law prohibits brokers from marketing homes on private listings without also marketing them to the public, owners would not be required to allow access onto their property or into their residence. The law includes an exception for instances where publicly marketing the property would threaten the owner’s or occupant’s health or safety.
The new law goes into effect June 11.
