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Diffused effort, asset heterogeneity, and real estate brokerage

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  • Zhaohui Li
  • Qiang Li
  • Hua Sun
  • Li Sun

Abstract

We generalize the classic Williams (1998, Review of Financial Studies, 11, 239–280) brokerage model by introducing diffused effort and asset heterogeneity. The term “diffused effort” refers to the fact that an agent can cross‐utilize effort spending on one listing to another . One counterintuitive finding in Williams' paper is the absence of the agency problem . As a special case in our model, we recover the agency problem. We demonstrate the positive externality due to the diffused effort and show it depends on the agent's inventory size. Hence, there is a trade‐off between agents' effort committed to existing listings and expanding network size by soliciting new listings.

Suggested Citation

  • Zhaohui Li & Qiang Li & Hua Sun & Li Sun, 2022. "Diffused effort, asset heterogeneity, and real estate brokerage," Real Estate Economics, American Real Estate and Urban Economics Association, vol. 50(3), pages 707-742, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:reesec:v:50:y:2022:i:3:p:707-742
    DOI: 10.1111/1540-6229.12341
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Xiangou Deng & Zhaohui Li & Michael J. Seiler & Hua Sun, 2024. "Market Strength and Brokerage Choice in Residential Housing," The Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics, Springer, vol. 69(4), pages 741-777, November.

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