Embattled real estate agency McGrath is seeking "urgent clarification" from incoming executive chairman and founder John McGrath after becoming privy to information relating to recent media reports.

The company requested a trading halt on Thursday morning pending an "announcement regarding recent media comment in relation to Mr McGrath", after delaying a conference call with media and analysts to discuss its half-year results. "The event that will end the trading halt is the company issuing an announcement by Mr McGrath," it said.

Real estate identity John McGrath has been in the news recently. Credit:Daniel Munoz

It earlier reported a half-year loss of $25.5 million, which includes a $21.8 million goodwill impairment of company-owned sales.

"The company has become privy to further information, which I can't comment on, and is seeking urgent clarification from John McGrath," chief executive Cameron Judson said during an investor call.