OLYMPIA—The Washington Legislature has passed Senate Bill 6091, sponsored by Marko Liias (D-Edmonds), a bill that would ban real estate brokers from marketing residential properties only to a limited or exclusive group of buyers or other agents, outside of public marketing. The bill passed the Senate 49-0 and the House 92-1 on final passage.
The measure targets so-called “pocket listings” — private real estate listings not visible on public websites or multiple-listing services but shared only through a broker’s personal network.
“Private real estate listings make our housing market less fair, and my bill will ensure all renters and buyers have equal access to the market when they’re looking for the next place to call home,” Senator Marko Liias released in a statement.
Under the bill, brokers could not market the sale or lease of residential real estate to a limited or exclusive group unless the property is also marketed concurrently to the general public and all other brokers. An exception is allowed only when reasonably necessary to protect the health or safety of the owner or occupant. The requirement does not force owners to allow public access to the property.
Opponents to the bill in testimony argued that it effectively strips homeowners of the right to decide how their private property is marketed by making it illegal for a broker to respect a homeowner’s request for a private or off-market sale, even if that privacy is the primary goal for the sale.
Proponents argue the bill is about competition and fairness in access to housing.
Violations would be subject to disciplinary action by the state Department of Licensing, which already regulates brokers and can impose fines up to $500 per violation, license suspension or other penalties.
The bill takes effect 90 days after the legislative session adjourns; so if you want to secretly sell your property without a public listing, sell before June 10, 2026.
Author: Mario Lotmore
