National Association of Realtors loses second head in 3 months, this one alleging blackmail

The president of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) abruptly stepped down Monday, claiming that she was blackmailed, according to a statement from the group.

Tracy Kasper said she recently received a “threat to disclose a past personal, non-financial matter” unless she “compromised” her position at the association. She chose to report the threat to law enforcement and immediately resign.

“As president and a long-time member of NAR, I always have put the interests of NAR first. As a result of the recent threat and given the significance of this moment for myself, my family and the organization, it is again time for me to put the interests of NAR first,” she said in a statement. 

“So, it is with a mix of gratitude and a heavy heart that I submit my resignation as your president effective immediately,” she continued. “In doing so, it gives our Leadership Team the ability to take the reins and forge forward in effecting the change that we all have worked so hard over the past few months to begin. I know I leave our members, our staff and our association in good hands.”

Kasper took on the leadership position in August after her predecessor, Kenny Parcell, was ousted after allegations of sexual harassment were published by The New York Times. The group’s CEO, Bob Goldberg, also retired in November.

The group is also facing legal scrutiny for its organization practices. In October, the group was found liable for $1.8 billion in damages over a conspiracy between its members to keep realtor commissions high.