The Verdict Is In

If you haven’t bought or sold a home recently, you might be surprised by how much real estate rules have shifted. Following the landmark 2024 Sitzer-Burnettsettlement against the National Association of REALTORS®, buyers are now required to sign written agreements with their agents and upfront commission offers can no longer be listed on local databases (e.g the MLS).

A major appeals court officially upheld that settlement this week, cementing these changes for good. Buyer-Brokerage Agreements are officially here to stay. If you're planning to enter the market soon, expect to discuss fees and expectations directly with your agent before touring your first home. Ultimately, this new landscape is designed to give both buyers and sellers far greater clarity and transparency right from day one.