HAMILTON, ON (January 21, 2026) - Cornerstone Association of REALTORS® (Cornerstone) commend's today's announcement by Minister Stephen Crawford and RECO Administrator and Acting CEO Jean Lépine to enable 100 per cent payment for all eligible iPro commission protection claims.
Following RECO's failure to freeze iPro Realty accounts and promptly notify the industry, registrants and consumers were exposed to unnecessary financial risks for three months. Some REALTORS® who are owed tens of thousands of dollars had to resort to taking on debt or being unable to pay essential expenses like utility bills, property taxes, and their children’s tuition. The original timelines that were presented through insurance would have seen compensation begin in late spring or summer of 2026.
Through clear and consistent advocacy with Minister Crawford, his team, and Administrator Lépine, Cornerstone has emphasized the need for RECO reform and immediate financial relief for those affected by the iPro Realty matter.
Today’s announcement from the Minister and the Administrator is the beginning of the end of this unfortunate saga that has affected so many registrants.
“Minister Crawford and Administrator Lépine have shown strong commitment to the prompt payment of all eligible commissions,” said Bill Duce, Chief Executive Officer of Cornerstone. “This morning’s announcement delivers real, meaningful progress toward ensuring everyone affected by the iPro Realty matter is fully supported and made whole.”
“Yesterday evening, members of our team had the opportunity to meet again with Minister Crawford and Administrator Lépine to reiterate the need for quick and decisive action to support registrants. Throughout these engagements, we have asked that RECO use its reserves to resolve this promptly, and we are very pleased to see them follow through with using their insurance program stability fund. We appreciate their urgency on this issue and look forward to continuing our engagement with them on RECO reform and, ultimately, to restoring trust in the regulator.”
About Cornerstone
Cornerstone Association of REALTORS® (Cornerstone) is a not-for-profit organization with over 325 years of collective service from its founding associations.
Established on July 1, 2024, Cornerstone leads with purpose, advocates boldly, and creates positive change for the success of our members throughout Mississauga, Burlington, Hamilton, Waterloo Region, Niagara North, Haldimand County, Norfolk County, and surrounding areas.
With approximately 8,000 members, Cornerstone is the second-largest REALTOR® association in Ontario, dedicated to promoting the greater good of the real estate community.
