The MLS is a monopoly which is why there hasn’t been a market evolution.
The problem now is buyers are really really going to get hosed on deals in buyer beware states. They’re going to think they’re saving money but will run into title issues, things that could be corrected on addendums, disclosures they should have been aware of, undiscovered liens, easements on property etc.
If you’re willing to negotiate your own deal super. Don’t cry when you think buying your house is like getting a Slurpee and nothing can go wrong.
I don’t think buyers are going to walk away from agents in large numbers. I just think there’s inevitably going to be downward pressure on commissions and a migration to fixed fees — just like we saw with stock sales.