Residential Real Estate Broker Commissions Antitrust Settlements

This massive $1+ billion series of antitrust settlements resolves lawsuits claiming the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and dozens of the largest real estate brokerages artificially inflated buyer-agent commissions for over a decade. The lawsuits allege that NAR’s “cooperative compensation” rule forced home sellers to pay excessive commissions (typically 5-6%) even when they found their own buyer. Who is paying the settlement: National Association of Realtors (NAR): $418 million Anywhere (Century 21, Coldwell Banker, Sotheby’s): $250 million HomeServices of America & subsidiaries: $250 million Keller Williams: $70 million RE/MAX: $38 million Compass, Redfin, Realty ONE, @properties, Douglas Elliman, HomeSmart, United Real Estate, and 15+ other brokerages: additional $200+ million combined Total settlement fund: Over $1 billion (non-reversionary – every dollar goes to home sellers or approved costs). Key rule changes (already in effect): Buyer-agent commission offers can no longer appear on MLS listings Buyers must sign written agreements before touring homes Brokerages must disclose that commissions are negotiable Who gets paid? Any U.S. home seller who: Sold a home listed on an MLS anywhere in the United States Paid a commission to a buyer’s agent Closing date between 2010 and 2024 (exact dates vary slightly by defendant) One claim per property sold — even if you sold multiple homes, file once per address. How much money will I get? Estimated payout: $50 – $250 per home sold (pro rata after ~25-33% attorney fees and costs) Higher amounts possible if fewer people file Payments are tax-free (considered return of overcharged fees) Do I need proof or documents? NO – just fill out the simple online form with basic sale info. No receipts, HUD-1, or closing statements required. Claim deadline: December 30, 2025 (covers nearly all remaining settlements – file once and you’re covered for every defendant).