Clear Cooperation, resignation, deportation: Inman’s Top 5

Looking for a quick catch-up on the buzziest stories of the week? Here’s Inman Top 5, the most essential stories, according to Inman readers.

Shifting ground rules driving real estate brokerage consolidation

As the industry continues to evolve, smaller brokers are going to need to think about how to increase profitability, and that often requires scale, said BHGRE President Ginger Wilcox.

Spencer Pratt and Heidi Montag sue LA over fires, water shortage

The reality TV stars along with 21 others are suing the city for its failure "to properly construct, inspect, maintain and operate its water supply system," which, they allege, led to the loss of their home in the Palisades fire.

71% of real estate agents didn’t close any deals last year

At Inman Connect New York, Redfin's Joe Rath broke down the views of active agents in the industry, who make up less than a third of all Realtors.