HomeServices of America agrees to pay $250M to settle lawsuits
HomeServices was potentially on the hook for the remaining $4.7B in damages from an Oct. 31 jury verdict in Sitzer | Burnett, which awarded plaintiffs $5.3 billion
by Taylor Anderson Apr 26
Anywhere's revenue holds steady in Q1 amid 'tough' housing market
Generated revenue remained flat at $1.1B from the same period a year ago while the franchisor improved net losses by 27% year over year to a loss of $101M, according to a Thursday earnings call
by Lillian Dickerson Apr 25
Sitzer | Burnett judge consolidates 2 nationwide commission suits
The Gibson and Umpa cases allege Berkshire Hathaway Energy, eXp, Redfin, Weichert, United Real Estate, Douglas Elliman, HomeSmart and others conspired against homesellers nationwide
by Andrea V. Brambila Apr 25
Decades of NAR membership data has vanished amid enrollment dip
Each month, the trade group publicly reports the size of its ranks and other data on its official website. But as recently as this month, state-by-state and national data is nowhere to be found
by Andrea V. Brambila Apr 24
Will listing agents have the upper hand post-NAR settlement? Pulse
Share your back-in-the-saddle, boots-on-the-ground perspectives now that NAR's settlement has received preliminary approval
by Inman Apr 24
Sign a buyer brokerage agreement to see a property? No way!
Buyers and sellers are confused about the new rules of the road. Trainer Bernice Ross and Jeff Lobb discuss how agents can change up the conversation and add clarity and confidence
by Bernice Ross Apr 24
Sitzer judge grants preliminary approval for NAR settlement
Judge Stephen R. Bough ruled that the sweeping changes NAR agreed to were 'fair, reasonable and adequate' and set a final approval hearing for November
by Taylor Anderson Apr 23
5 tips for navigating times of frustration and uncertainty
Whether it's commission lawsuit settlements or life in general that's causing your stress, broker-owner Pam Blair offers insight to help you come out stronger on the other side
by Pam Blair Apr 23
60-day clock begins for brokerages seeking to opt into $418M NAR deal
Sitzer | Burnett plaintiffs on Friday asked the court to preliminarily approve the proposed deal. Brokerages and MLSs that were left out initially will have to take action by June 18 to be covered
by Andrea V. Brambila Apr 22
Real estate brokers didn't fear the lawsuits — until NAR settled: Intel
Anxiety around commissions leaped to the top of the worries brokerage leaders face, pushing down concerns around inventory and competition, according to Inman Intel Index survey results
by Daniel Houston Apr 22
7 strategies to turn today’s bad economic news into more deals
Frustrated and anxious about economic conditions? Trainer Bernice Ross writes that, instead of waiting for change, agents can move forward with confidence by following these strategies
by Bernice Ross Apr 19
Agents maneuver a labyrinthine legal landscape: The Download
There's been a heapin' helpin' of new developments in the commission lawsuits. Here's how to pivot and  be ready for whatever comes next
by Christy Murdock Apr 19
'The sky is not falling': Fighting fear and frustration post-settlement
Nick Schlekeway looks at the consumer, governmental and industry forces that led to the post-settlement landscape and the opportunities they present for those willing to move forward
by Nick Schlekeway Apr 19
Build bridges with these answers to frequent NAR settlement queries
Opinion
Don't get defensive and burn bridges when you talk about recent settlements. Jimmy Burgess shares talking points to educate sellers and the public about the state of your business
by Jimmy Burgess Apr 19
Still standing: Realtor resilience for challenging times
Need a pep talk? Coach Darryl Davis offers a little wisdom to help you remember your value and navigate the difficult waters of client service
by Darryl Davis Apr 18
Homebuyers emboldened in wake of $418M NAR settlement: Intel poll
Clients believe their agents bring value, and they're willing to pay for it, according to a survey of 3,000 employed US residents conducted by Intel and Dig Insights. But many consumers embrace the idea of negotiating a lower commission — and perhaps exploring new models
by Daniel Houston Apr 17
Pulte objects to Sitzer | Burnett settlements: What's in it for me?
US homebuilder PulteGroup said it should have been provided with a plan to distribute claims so that it can estimate its recovery amount. But that document doesn't appear to exist
by Andrea V. Brambila Apr 17
Here are the craziest things you've heard about commissions: Pulse
There's a lot of misinformation and misunderstanding out there. Here are the wildest things you've heard about commissions so far
by Inman Apr 17
What agents do post-settlement will define Real Estate 3.0
Two major real estate market transformations defined the past 50 years, writes CEO Patrick Kilner. Are we ready for whatever comes next?
by Patrick Kilner Apr 16
Federal courts hand HomeServices a win (and a loss) in Sitzer | Burnett
The US Supreme Court denied the real estate franchisor's request for consideration on Monday, but the plaintiffs won't be able to lay $4.7B in damages at HomeServices' feet — at least not yet
by Andrea V. Brambila Apr 15
Ditch generic marketing: Convey your value with storytelling
Opinion
Forget the infographics, lists and pie charts, broker Teresa Boardman writes. Instead, tell a compelling story about how you've helped your clients
by Teresa Boardman Apr 15
Will lawsuits end 6% commissions? Probably not, 1 law professor says
A provision in NAR's settlement barring listing agents from offering buyer agents compensation is 'largely symbolic,' USC professor Jordan Barry said Friday at a University of Minnesota conference
by Jim Dalrymple II Apr 15
Judges decline to 'centralize' commission lawsuits for now
A panel of judges considering whether to consolidate real estate commission lawsuits into one cited the recent NAR settlement as a reason to deny the request
by Taylor Anderson Apr 12
30 listing lead generation ideas for a post-NAR settlement market
If you want to build the listing side of your business in the wake of the NAR settlement, Jimmy Burgess has 30 practical, actionable, doable strategies tailor-made for this moment
by Jimmy Burgess Apr 11
R New York becomes 1st big brokerage to join NAR challenger
With the addition, roughly 800 agents will boost Jason Haber and Mauricio Umansky's American Real Estate Association membership by nearly 30% to about 3,800 members
by Lillian Dickerson Apr 10
How NAR's settlement threatens Black Realtors and homebuyers
This is a moment in history when NAREB and our leaders must stand up for justice and equality, writes Dr. Courtney Johnson Rose, president of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers
Brokers brace for NAR settlement to drive commissions south: Intel
A $418M settlement in March by NAR caught agents and leaders by surprise. In a mixed bag of responses to the latest Intel Index poll, they shared their early reactions and existential fears
by Daniel Houston Apr 10
Here are the commission questions your clients are asking now: Pulse
We asked you to share with us the commission questions your clients have and how you're explaining the lawsuit fallout
by Inman Apr 10
WATCH: How agent compensation works in a post-lawsuit world
James Dwiggins and Keith Robinson discuss the shifting landscape of agent compensation following the proposed NAR settlement with Ed Zorn, VP and general counsel for CRMLS
by James Dwiggins Apr 9
Real Brokerage agrees to pay $9.25M to settle commission suits
The Real Brokerage agreed to change business operations as part of its proposed settlement agreement in Umpa v. NAR
by Taylor Anderson Apr 8
Possibility, probability and paradox after NAR's settlement: DelPrete
Getting distracted by remote possibilities in the face of uncertainty keeps you from focusing on the facts, writes Mike DelPrete
by Mike DelPrete Apr 8
Forget the NAR settlement. New development transactions still pay
Opinion
As brokerages pivot to specialized training meant to empower buyer agents, new-home sales still provide plenty of opportunities for intrepid Realtors, development specialist Hana Cha writes
by Hana Cha Apr 8
Barbara Corcoran just handed real estate a chill pill: The Download
Real estate maven Barbara Corcoran tells the industry to calm down following the furor over NAR's commission lawsuit settlement
by Christy Murdock Apr 5
Corcoran, commission, cases: Inman's Top 5 stories this week
Looking for a quick catch-up on the buzziest stories of the week? Here’s Inman Top 5, the most essential stories, according to Inman readers
by Dani Vanderboegh Apr 5
It's up to you to make lemonade out of a sour NAR settlement situation
Consumers have been given a front-row seat to the chaos unfolding in our industry, Rachael Hite writes. As the situation unravels, who will make lemonade and who will feast on sour grapes?
by Rachael Hite Apr 5
HomeServices tells court it's too early for $4.7B Sitzer ruling
The Berkshire Hathaway affiliate says final judgment in the case shouldn't come before settlements are finalized, a process the franchisor does not expect to be 'uncontroversial'
How great agents win in the face of NAR settlement misinformation
Consumer misconceptions post-NAR settlement are wild. Jimmy Burgess talks to Keeping Current Matters CEO David Childers on how to communicate with today's buyers and sellers
by Jimmy Burgess Apr 4
New commission lawsuit in New York may draw FTC attention
The antitrust case from homebuyer and homeseller Hao Zhe Wang alleges MLS and broker services are illegally tied
NAR's settlement paints a murky commission picture for consumers
CEO Sean Frank writes that an unintended consequence of new MLS changes is that real estate transactions become less transparent to the buyers and sellers they're meant to serve
by Sean Frank Apr 2
What today's high-performance teams know (and now you do, too)
Author and trainer Bernice Ross and Verl Workman, co-founder of Workman Success Systems, discuss the strategies top-producing teams are leaning into now
by Bernice Ross Apr 1
Agents brace for impact: A future with more unrepresented buyers
Some think the National Association of Realtors' $418M settlement will prompt more homebuyers to transact without agents. Inman asked industry professionals how they'll handle that situation
by Jim Dalrymple II Apr 1
Bad reputation: 3 shifts that cloud the public's perception of agents
Opinion
Mega team leader Carl Medford points to several massive shifts that have caused the current commission crisis and the path he sees forward
by Carl Medford Apr 1
The 'Chick-fil-A on Sunday' ChatGPT listing presentation plan
Follow this step-by-step listing presentation blueprint from Jimmy Burgess, and your listing appointments will be like Chick-fil-A on a Sunday — closed
by Jimmy Burgess Mar 29
Barbara Corcoran on the $418M NAR settlement: It's 'not a big deal'
Corcoran told Yahoo! Finance Wednesday she doesn't believe the effects of the settlement will be as earth-shattering as many make them out to be, but that 'the confusion it's causing is amazing'
by Lillian Dickerson Mar 29
T3 Sixty nixes this year's Mega 1000 list in wake of NAR settlement
The move comes 2 weeks after the National Association of Realtors signaled a $418M settlement of commission lawsuits. T3 Sixty said it will bring the ranking back when litigation is resolved
by Jim Dalrymple II Mar 29
Will uncertainty drive agents out? Maybe — but don’t let it be you
Opinion
After the National Association of Realtors' proposed settlement, Coldwell Banker Realty president and CEO Kamini Lane offers 3 tips for agents amid commission compression chaos
by Kamini Lane Mar 29
Moehrl trial shifts to early 2025 as HomeServices keeps skin in game
The plaintiffs and defendants in the antitrust commission case indicated they would be available for a 3- to 4-week trial beginning Jan. 21, 2025, according to court filings earlier this week
by Andrea V. Brambila Mar 28
Value over discount: 8 tips for navigating post-NAR settlement
Opinion
Explore how to transcend discounting and enhance value in response to the NAR settlement with strategic consultant Chris Pollinger
by Chris Pollinger Mar 27
NAR's settlement could impact women more than men. Here's why
Opinion
Women in real estate are already earning about 60% less than men. Rachael Hite looks at the latest wage gap data and explores how commission compression could widen that gap
by Rachael Hite Mar 27
5 things every broker should be doing after NAR's settlement
Brokers need to lead by example, new Inman contributor Valeria Grunbaum writes. Walk the talk, and don't buy into the fear and uncertainty of these post-settlement times
by Valeria Grunbaum Mar 27
7 crisis management tips for handling commission uncertainty
The critical difference between survival and downfall during turbulent times, including the commission lawsuits, is effective crisis management, Keller Williams' Julia Lashay Isreal writes
buying beverly hills, netflix, ben belack, the agency
The Agency's Ben Belack shares his thoughts on NAR settlement news, the current industry landscape and the American Real Estate Association ahead of Season 2 of the reality TV show
by Dani Vanderboegh Mar 26
Let's debunk 7 mainstream media falsehoods, post-NAR settlement
Opinion
Premier Sotheby’s International Realty President and CEO Budge Huskey corrects the record on commissions — and the potential impact of the NAR settlement on buyers, sellers and agents
by Budge Huskey Mar 25
Moehrl attorney: Market shift after NAR settlement 'will take time'
Robby Braun, partner at Cohen Milstein Sellers & Toll, addresses 'misconceptions' about the NAR deal's impact and says Realtors who try to ignore the changes 'will get left behind'
by Andrea V. Brambila Mar 25
Amid commission chaos, talk turns to ongoing gripe: clueless agents
Leaders at many brokerages say a lack of serious agents with a full-time commitment is a drag on the industry. Intel asks whether this might change in the wake of the latest settlements
by Daniel Houston Mar 25
NAR settlement fallout: Here's Inman's Top 5 stories of the week
Looking for a quick catch-up on the buzziest stories of the week? Here’s Inman Top 5, the most essential stories, according to Inman readers
by Dani Vanderboegh Mar 22
NAR (and now Compass) settled. Y'all had thoughts: The Download
Real estate professionals respond in the aftermath of NAR's big commission lawsuit settlement and Compass' brand new one
by Christy Murdock Mar 22
Compass to pay $57.5M to settle commission lawsuits
The news comes 1 week after NAR's whopping $418M settlement was announced. Compass also agreed to make some minor changes to its business practices as part of the settlement
by Lillian Dickerson Mar 22
Redfin expands new compensation plan to 7 more markets
Redfin Next is available to agents in 7 major markets across the South, Midwest and East Coast. Redfin execs say it will help them navigate market 'ups and downs,' including NAR's settlement
by Marian McPherson Mar 21
We asked ChatGPT about agent value. Its answers may surprise you
ChatGPT answered questions about the value a real estate agent has and about how real estate commissions work. Do you agree with its answers?
by Rachael Hite Mar 21
Online course aims to prep buyer agents for real estate wild west
Kaplan’s new Buyer Agency Professional course aims to help buyer agents negotiate the ways they are compensated
by Ben Verde Mar 21
Who's out: The brokerages not covered in the NAR settlement
More than 90 brokerages would not be covered under the $418M deal, though most have the option of buying in
by Andrea V. Brambila Mar 20
After the NAR settlement, 5 keys to buyer relationship marketing
Agents who see the changes coming and adapt to the new reality by cementing their relationships will be in a position to seize the day as market winds shift, mega-team leader Carl Medford writes
by Carl Medford Mar 20
Before NAR settlement, headcount hopes were losing steam: Intel
Most brokerage leaders in February still expected to be better-staffed this time next year, the Intel Index found. But that optimism was weakening even before NAR's $418M settlement Friday
by Daniel Houston Mar 20
How commission chaos divided the real estate industry into 4 factions
The verdict in the monumental Sitzer | Burnett commission case in Missouri — plus oversight by federal regulators — has splintered the industry as it scrambles to figure out how to move forward
by Taylor Anderson Mar 20
Take the Inman Intel Index survey for March
Opinion
The Inman Intel Index goes beyond sentiment and trends by tapping into the real estate industry's most engaged community. Add your voice to the industry's most ambitious monthly survey today
by Chris LeBarton Mar 20
The biggest challenges with NAR's proposed settlement: Pulse
We asked readers what's causing you the most stress when it comes to NAR's settlement. Here are the biggest hurdles the industry faces, in your words
by Inman Mar 20
Homes.com gets analyst boost amid 567% annual traffic spike
CoStar Group's residential portal is having a stellar week as a February traffic boost and NAR's proposed commission settlement encouraged analysts to upgrade their outlook on the company
by Marian McPherson Mar 19
Court weighs $4.7B Sitzer ruling against last holdout HomeServices
Sitzer | Burnett plaintiffs asked the court to order the Berkshire Hathaway affiliate to pay most of the nearly $5.4B damages award after NAR, Keller Williams, Anywhere and RE/MAX settle
by Andrea V. Brambila Mar 19
Agents storm TikTok with flood of complaints after NAR settlement
Since Friday, real estate agents have been arguing on the video sharing platform that the recent commission suit settlement is likely to hurt both homebuyers and the agents who represent them
by Jim Dalrymple II Mar 19
NAR's $418M settlement throws a wrench at the MLS. So now what?
If the proposed settlement is approved, multiple listing services will be forced to nix the buyer commission field by July. Now is the time to prepare, writes author and trainer Bernice Ross
by Bernice Ross Mar 19
NAR settlement may disrupt mortgage partner agent programs
If homebuyers are no longer willing to pay full commissions to agents, what happens to lender programs that incentivize consumers to work with partner real estate agents?
by Matt Carter Mar 18
Thanks to NAR settlement, real estate is in its Wild West era
Opinion
Bi-coastal broker Cara Ameer outlines the problems, concerns and frustrations inherent in the terms of NAR's commission lawsuit settlement as agents learn to navigate a new reality
by Cara Ameer Mar 18
An anticipated settlement still shocks the real estate industry
Proposed settlement represents 'nothing short of a sea change' for Realtors as NAR agrees to pay $418M and make sweeping changes
Over 60% of agents have been recruited so far this year: Intel
Most agents say they've heard from competitor brokerages in recent weeks. Intel examines what's on their mind as they decide whether to stay — or bolt
by Chris LeBarton Mar 18
As NAR settles, real estate braces for seismic shift: The Download
Everything you know about commissions is poised to change as NAR reaches a massive $418M settlement and promises unprecedented changes to the way members operate
by Christy Murdock Mar 16
WATCH: Ed Zorn, NextHome CEO on the $418M NAR settlement
James Dwiggins, Strategic Officer Keith Robinson and Ed Zorn, the California Regional MLS general counsel, tackled NAR's settlement in an exclusive livestream Friday. Watch it on demand
by Inman Mar 15
NAR agrees to sweeping changes in $418M commission settlement
NAR would agree not to create rules that allow listing agents to set compensation for buyer brokers as part of the settlement. HomeServices of America not included in the deal
by Taylor Anderson Mar 15
3 steps to earn your share of commissions in any market
Much of your income potential is totally controlled by the activities you choose to do every day, broker Joseph Santini writes, along with your willingness to adjust to the market
by Joseph Santini Mar 13
Sitzer | Burnett plaintiffs' attorneys ask for a third of settlement payout
After 5 years and nearly 100K hours of work, the law firms are asking a federal court for $82M of the proposed settlements to be paid by Anywhere, Keller Williams and RE/MAX
Baird & Warner at center of latest commission lawsuit filed in Illinois
Two consumers filed the class-action suit in the Circuit Court of Cook County. Unlike similar cases, the latest seeks to represent buyers and sellers — and only names Baird & Warner as a defendant
by Jim Dalrymple II Mar 7
Elephant in the room: What execs revealed about commissions in Q4
In the wake of legal settlements in 2 of the largest commission lawsuits, RE/MAX and Anywhere illuminated their paths forward to investors in Q4 earnings calls. Intel reads the tea leaves
by Daniel Houston Mar 6
Howard Hanna dismissed from mother of all commission suits
Howard Hanna had been one of several defendants in a case known as Batton 2, which was brought by homebuyers and has a much larger scope than some better-known cases
by Jim Dalrymple II Mar 6
Berkshire Hathaway Energy added to growing Gibson commission suit
Amended complaint alleges Warren Buffett's company abused the trust inspired by his name to encourage homesellers to use HomeServices and further alleged price-fixing conspiracy
How far would you go to protect your buyer clients? The Download
The Consumer Federation of America, an industry watchdog, says that the buyer agreements you're depending on are woefully inadequate to properly protect homebuyers
by Christy Murdock Mar 1
9 post-Sitzer questions we still don't have answers to
Opinion
Change always brings chaos and disruption, broker Cara Ameer writes. While many of these issues have been lurking in the background, they illustrate the work that remains to be done
by Cara Ameer Mar 1
The agent's essential guide to the commission lawsuits
Author and trainer Bernice Ross provides the rundown on what to know, what’s most likely to change, how it may impact your pocketbook and steps to take to be prepared for what’s ahead
by Bernice Ross Feb 29
Defendant, plaintiffs in Nosalek commission case unite against DOJ
Defendant MLS PIN and plaintiffs Jennifer Nosalek, Randy Hirschorn and Tracey Hirschorn asked a district court judge for permission to respond to a statement of interest the DOJ filed in the case
by Andrea V. Brambila Feb 28
Buyer agency contracts riddled with 'unfair' terms, CFA declares
The Consumer Federation of America, a watchdog group, examined 43 contracts from 37 states, most from state or local Realtor associations, and found practices it believes worthy of scrutiny
by Andrea V. Brambila Feb 28
Redfin in crosshairs as new lawsuit targets buyer-broker commissions
California resident Andrea Freedlund is suing on behalf of homesellers who paid a buyer agent in the 4 years before Redfin announced it was leaving NAR, according to a suit filed in federal court
by Andrea V. Brambila Feb 27
Brokerages, lenders anticipate big recruitment push in 2024: Triple-I
Approximately 28% of brokerage leaders believe 'recruiting and retaining talent' will be their most challenging responsibility 1 year from now, according to results from the Inman Intel Index survey
by Chris LeBarton Feb 26
NAR breaks silence on DOJ call to decouple commissions
Consumer watchdog CFA hails federal agency's proposal to ban sellers from making compensation offers as a 'major watershed' in promoting more competition in real estate
by Andrea V. Brambila Feb 23
NAR: Commission suit insurance coverage ran out 'some time ago'
There are no funds under NAR's policy available to pay for the cost of defending the Realtor associations nor their multiple listing services which have been sued, according to the trade group
by Andrea V. Brambila Feb 21
Objection-handling scripts for the buyer representation agreement 
If you're rethinking your buyer consultation and implementing a buyer representation agreement, team leader Carl Medford shares what you need to know to explain the change to your clients
by Carl Medford Feb 21
HomeServices dropped from long-running buyer commission lawsuit
The court dismissed a federal antitrust claim in the case known as Batton 1, but allowed state-law claims to proceed, partially due to the argument that commissions are baked into home prices
by Andrea V. Brambila Feb 21
Nevada homeseller files yet another commission lawsuit
Angela Boykin is suing over a home sale from 2022. Her case is the 2nd such recent lawsuit out of Nevada and adds to the growing number of cases that have followed the Sitzer | Burnett verdict
by Jim Dalrymple II Feb 20
Buyer agents are already cutting commissions: The Download
In the post-Sitzer world we now live in, agents and brokers are already dealing with the new reality by cutting buyer commissions to the bone
by Christy Murdock Feb 17
DOJ to Nosalek judge: Broker commissions should be decoupled
The Department of Justice said a proposed settlement in the major antitrust lawsuit might itself violate federal law and said buyers should negotiate their broker's commission directly
WATCH: Anywhere's sitting pretty after Sitzer | Burnett settlement
Find out why CEO Ryan Schneider sees the decision to settle as offering a 'competitive advantage' for his company's agents and brokers
by Christy Murdock Feb 16
Meet the brokerage getting ahead of the post-Sitzer commission rush
DeLeon Realty in Silicon Valley began advertising commissions of 3.5% or less for homesellers who choose to work with the firm. The marketing push appeared in the mail and social media this week
by Taylor Anderson Feb 15
NAR halts 'presidential initiatives' for next 2 years amid turmoil
The trade group will not take on pet projects for the duration of NAR President Kevin Sears' tenure, which is slated to last until November 2025, he told NAR's Board of Directors Wednesday morning
by Andrea V. Brambila Feb 15
How to justify your commission with a Buyer Bill of Rights
As the real estate landscape changes thanks to commission-related lawsuits, Carl Medford writes, pressure is being levied on buyer agents to demonstrate their value to potential clients
by Carl Medford Feb 13
Utah homeseller files commission lawsuit against NAR, 13 others
The complaint — one of nearly two dozen targeting real estate's commission-sharing structure — alleges 'most' buyer agents will steer clients away from listings that offer lower commission
by Taylor Anderson Feb 12
NAR president: The DOJ is a 'bigger problem' than $1.8B Sitzer verdict
In remarks made in Boston that were later posted online, new NAR President Kevin Sears declared business will change for Realtors — whether they embrace it or have it 'forced down our throats'
HomeServices wants US Supreme Court to weigh Sitzer | Burnett case
The franchisor filed a petition to the Supreme Court requesting the review of an earlier appeals court ruling barring it from enforcing arbitration agreements signed by seller clients
Keller Williams settled. What does NAR do now? The Download
In the wake of the $70M settlement by Keller Williams, NAR and HomeServices of America appear to be the ones left holding the bag. What happens next?
by Christy Murdock Feb 3
Keller Williams settles Sitzer, Moehrl commission suits for $70M
Under the proposed deal, Keller Williams must inform franchisees that offers of compensation are not required. It also agreed to revise training materials and end rules requiring agents to join NAR
NAR CEO Nykia Wright appears — and disappears — in 'odd' new video
In a video that abruptly vanished from NAR's website Wednesday before resurfacing, Wright said the group does not set commissions — a practice it isn't currently being accused of — and welcomed competition from AREA
Pocket listing suit against NAR 'paused' for settlement talks
NAR was dismissed without paying any money or making any rule changes, but The PLS says it can reopen the case if they don't come to a deal
by Andrea V. Brambila Jan 30
Josh Team makes a real estate comeback as SERHANT. president
The former Keller Williams president took a 3-year sabbatical from the industry, going all-in on being a dad. Team wasn't sure he'd ever return to real estate — until he got to know Ryan Serhant
by Lillian Dickerson Jan 29
Attorney lays out how real estate can survive the commission suits
At Inman Connect, Ed Zorn proposed mandating buyer representation agreements, killing the MLS compensation field, adding a concession field, and creating a fund to pay out settlements
by Andrea V. Brambila Jan 26
Anywhere CEO touts 'protection' from commission suit chaos
Ryan Schneider celebrated his company's settlements in several high-profile commission cases while on stage at inman Connect New York
by Lillian Dickerson Jan 24
James Dwiggins
James Dwiggins argued at Inman Connect New York that commission lawsuits and pressure from the feds is going to bring about change in the real estate industry
by Jim Dalrymple II Jan 23
Meet the French baker behind California's big commission suit
Gael Fierro co-wrote a movie for Amazon Prime and ran a business selling cannelés before he decided to sue over the sale of his home in Los Angeles
by Jim Dalrymple II Jan 22
Double trouble: 2nd commission suit this week hits Cali Realtors
The new lawsuit — the 2nd filed in California this week — takes aim at rules enacted and enforced by MetroList and complied with by some of the nation's biggest real estate firms
by Taylor Anderson Jan 19
Meow! The copycats are on the prowl: The Download
Lawsuit after lawsuit dropped this week, with no end in sight. How will it affect your professional future, and what can you do to strengthen your business?
by Christy Murdock Jan 19
California commission lawsuit filed against NAR and 35 other entities
Homesellers allege 36 Realtor association, brokerage, and multiple listing service defendants conspired to inflate buyer broker commissions in violation of state and federal antitrust laws
by Andrea V. Brambila Jan 19
Court says $200B commission suit against NAR must go forward
A federal court judge denied a request from the defendants to suspend the case pending the outcome of post-trial motions after the Sitzer | Burnett verdict
by Andrea V. Brambila Jan 18
Homeseller sues Nevada Realtors, NAR after $40K commission bill
Las Vegas resident Nathaniel Whaley alleges the National Association of Realtors, the Northern Nevada Regional MLS and state and local Realtor groups conspired to inflate broker commissions
by Andrea V. Brambila Jan 17
10 things to do right now, so you're not in the next wave of agent exits
Team leader Carl Medford and his regional mastermind developed these 10 strategies to help you return to the fundamentals and take on the challenges and opportunities the market has in store
by Carl Medford Jan 16
Illinois' 3rd commission suit names @properties, champions buyers
A Chicago homeowner is the latest to allege NAR policies amounted to a conspiracy to keep commissions high for buyers, resulting in overpayment on the home purchase
by Taylor Anderson Jan 12
Latest homeseller suits in Arizona, New York target commission rules
Class-action complaints filed by Joseph Masiello and Robert Friedman join chorus of litigation nationwide objecting to trade group rules requiring sellers to offer compensation to buyer brokers
by Andrea V. Brambila Jan 11
Post-Sitzer, the opinion of 8 people doesn't diminish agent value
Opinion
According to coach Darryl Davis, by staying positive, keeping perspective and being proactive, real estate agents can continue to demonstrate their worth
by Darryl Davis Jan 11
NAR, KW and HomeServices seek new trial in Sitzer | Burnett suit
The defendants point to 'legal errors at trial' they say justify setting aside the jury's historic, multi-billion-dollar verdict and giving the defendants another chance to make their case in court
by Andrea V. Brambila Jan 10
James Dwiggins: NAR needs a top-down overhaul
Ahead of Inman Connect New York this month, the NextHome CEO said NAR serves an important function, but needs a major fix to deal with challenges related to leadership and commission suits
by Jim Dalrymple II Jan 9
Agents are worth more than the current commission model
Agent, attorney, coach and yoga instructor Renee Fishman joins Bernice Ross to discuss the problems and opportunities provided by the ongoing commission debate
by Bernice Ross Jan 5
49% of agents sold either 1 home or none at all in the past year: CFA
Agent 'glut' means part-timers are now the majority, leading to 'widespread incompetence and pressure to maintain high commission rates,' according to the Consumer Federation of America
7 perks of seller-paid commission to share with homeowners
Opinion
Transparency and communication are more important than ever before. Darryl Davis offers essential talking points for your next commission conversation with sellers
by Darryl Davis Jan 4
24 how-tos to help you start 2024 off with a bang
To formulate this list of how-tos to start the year off right, Inman's Service Editor Dani Vanderboegh rounded up the top advice and most-read contributors of 2023.
by Dani Vanderboegh Jan 3
Robert Reffkin relinquishes stock unit awards for $7M cash bonus
An SEC filing showed the Compass CEO is letting go of $25M in performance-based restricted stock unit awards in exchange for something a bit more tangible. His salary will become $900K
A Maryland homeowner just filed yet another commission lawsuit
The case is the latest of numerous antitrust lawsuits that have emerged in the wake of the October verdict in Sitzer | Burnett. It names NAR, Compass, Redfin and others as defendants
by Jim Dalrymple II Dec 29
How well do you remember 2023's biggest real estate stories?
Scandals, lawsuits, technology and more dominated the headlines in what turned out to be one of real estate's most eventful years in recent memory
by Jim Dalrymple II Dec 29
From Sitzer to Moehrl, 2023 was the year of commission confusion
Sitzer | Burnett and its verdict cast a long shadow that will extend into 2024 and potentially shake up the real estate industry. But it wasn't the only lawsuit with commissions in the crosshairs
by Andrea V. Brambila Dec 28
The biggest story of the year (according to you): The Download
The biggest story of the year was our liveblog coverage of the Sitzer | Burnett commission trial. Get caught up with a special end-of-year edition of The Download
by Christy Murdock Dec 23
NAR must find a way to advocate for marginalized buyers post-Sitzer
According to Realtor Trina Gonzales-Van, additional fees to buyers, especially in marginalized communities, has the potential to create more barriers to homeownership
by Trina Gonzales-Van Dec 22
NAR, franchisors ask for summary judgment in Moehrl suit
The National Association of Realtors, Keller Williams and HomeServices of America have all asked a federal judge in Illinois to rule in their favor before the Moehrl case goes to trial
by Jim Dalrymple II Dec 20
Time for brokers, agents to bridge the Sitzer disconnect: LeBarton
Brokerages have been scrambling to get agents up to speed on commission lawsuits — but they may already be in deeper than broker-owners realize, Inman's Director of Research tells Intel
by Daniel Houston Dec 20
NAR President: Commission changes will 'marginalize' buyers
NAR President Tracy Kasper appeared on CNBC's 'The Exchange' Thursday to discuss mortgage rates, affordability and the potential harm of changes to the current commission structure
by Marian McPherson Dec 15
Texas homesellers file new commission suit as cases pile up
The new suit is the second in Texas since the Sitzer | Burnett verdict, and is one of a growing number of antitrust cases challenging the way agents get paid
by Jim Dalrymple II Dec 14
3 reasons you should be using a buyer agreement now
According to broker Joseph Santini, buyer agreements are good for buyers and good for buyer agents. Learn more about these valuable tools and how to get them signed
by Joseph Santini Dec 14
California homeseller who paid $50K in commissions files lawsuit
Christina Grace, a California resident who sold her home in Marin County, filed suit Friday against NAR, Compass and Keller Williams, among others, claiming she paid $50K in commissions
by Andrea V. Brambila Dec 12
After Sitzer, what will happen to underserved communities?
Opinion
According to DEI expert Nora Crosthwaite, we have more questions than answers when it comes to the future of homeownership for underserved communities, and that's unfair to consumers
by Nora Crosthwaite Dec 8
Commission suits hit Realtors, brokerages in Florida, Pennsylvania
In separate lawsuits, homesellers allege the defendants — including Florida Realtors and West Penn MLS — conspired to enforce rules that inflated commissions on the sale of their homes
NAR hires new marketing and comms chief amid tumultuous year
Suzanne Bouhia will shape NAR's communication strategy as the organization deals with lawsuits, scandal and a harrowing year in real estate
by Jim Dalrymple II Dec 5
Facade Flags Justice Department Building Washington DC
A 3-judge panel for the Washington DC circuit seemed inclined to let the agency resume its probe into the National Association of Realtors' cooperative compensation and pocket listing rules
Abandoning NAR won't help us reclaim our legacy and lead change
Opinion
Agents industrywide are tempted to give NAR the cold shoulder, but coach Darryl Davis says that is not the solution to fix the major problems at hand
by Darryl Davis Dec 2
Seattle-based Coldwell Banker franchise ditches NAR
The company is the latest of several to step away from the National Association of Realtors, which has suffered both a scandal and legal defeats in recent months
by Jim Dalrymple II Dec 1
NAR argues against setting trial date in Moehrl commission suit
The trade group's attorney says NAR is 'still analyzing' the consequences of the Sitzer | Burnett verdict. Judge Andrea R. Wood says Moehrl is a 'different case' that will likely go to trial in Q4 2024
by Andrea V. Brambila Nov 29
Georgia homesellers file yet another antitrust commission suit
The Georgia suit accuses NAR and major real estate companies of conspiring to keep commissions high. It's also the latest in a string of new cases following the Sitzer | Burnett verdict
by Jim Dalrymple II Nov 28
Anywhere, RE/MAX commission lawsuit settlements move forward
A judge has granted preliminary approval of the franchisers' multimillion dollar settlements in Sitzer | Burnett, Moehrl and Nosalek. Final approval may happen next year
by Jim Dalrymple II Nov 20
NAR directors confront power shift as executive committee steps up
At a Friday board meeting, a member of NAR's board of directors predicted 'less authority' in 2024 as the embattled trade group's growing Executive Committee shoulders more responsibility
by Andrea V. Brambila Nov 20
Real estate CEOs: Big impact from commission suits 'improbable'
The bombshell verdict of Sitzer | Burnett rocked the real estate industry, but recent earnings reports suggest many of its most recognizable CEOs don't anticipate major disruptions
by Jim Dalrymple II Nov 17
Sitzer | Burnett defendants bulk up lawyer bench to prep for appeal
The National Association of Realtors and Keller Williams have hired former US solicitors general to help them beat back the multibillion-dollar verdict
by Andrea V. Brambila Nov 17
NAR won't use lobbying chops for 'legislative fix' to commission suits
At a forum for reps of 50 large brokerage firms, The Realty Alliance CEO Craig Cheatham asked why the nearly 1.6M-member trade group can't use its political influence for an 'existential threat'
by Andrea V. Brambila Nov 16
NAR: 'We have many grounds' to appeal the Sitzer | Burnett verdict
The National Association of Realtors laid out its arguments to overturn the ruling Tuesday. The plaintiffs' attorney said if the trade group doesn't change, it risks an injunction and DOJ wrath
by Andrea V. Brambila Nov 15
New bombshell lawsuit targets Texas Realtor orgs, local teams
A homebuilder and holding company filed the case Monday. But unlike other suits against NAR, this one lists the Texas Association of Realtors and other local organizations as defendants
by Jim Dalrymple II Nov 14
NAR will argue for 'complete reversal' of Sitzer | Burnett verdict
The National Association of Realtors' legal team on Monday blamed the ruling on the judge. The plaintiffs' attorney, meanwhile, said NAR hadn't 'learned anything' from its 'resounding defeat'
by Andrea V. Brambila Nov 14
Commission lawsuits are piling up. Keep track of them all right here
In the wake of the Sitzer | Burnett verdict, the number of bombshell lawsuits has rapidly multiplied — putting more pressure than ever on real estate's status quo. Here's a rundown of all the cases
by Jim Dalrymple II Nov 10
South Carolina homesellers latest in line to sue NAR, Keller Williams
A new commission lawsuit filed Monday seeking class-action status alleges sellers encountered 'illogical, harmful, irrational and anticompetitive effects' of NAR's cooperative compensation rule
by Andrea V. Brambila Nov 10
New commission lawsuit targets REBNY and 26 companies in NYC
Homeseller Monty March filed suit in the Southern District of New York Wednesday, alleging REBNY rules in Manhattan kept commissions high and violated state and federal antitrust laws
by Taylor Anderson Nov 10
NAR President addresses Realtors for first time since Sitzer verdict
In a 5-minute video posted online Wednesday, NAR President Tracy Kasper urged Realtors to be transparent about commission negotiations as NAR gears up for a long legal battle ahead
by Marian McPherson Nov 8
Mother of all commission suits filed in Illinois, this time by homebuyers
'Batton 2,' exponentially larger in scope than Sitzer | Burnett and the Moehrl commission suits, was filed last week in Illinois and takes aim at many of the defendants in another suit called Gibson
Sitzer | Burnett plaintiffs' attorneys in talks with Department of Justice
Disrupting the National Association of Realtors' use of multiple listing services as a 'vehicle for higher commissions' is at the center of talks, lawyer Michael Ketchmark told Inman exclusively
Redfin CEO: With commissions in peril 'cooperation may crumble'
Redfin CEO Glenn Kelman said at Inman Connect on Wednesday that pressure from lawsuits and the Department of Justice may ultimately lead to 'a different world' than the one that exists today
by Jim Dalrymple II Nov 1
Sitzer attorney files new suit against Compass, Redfin, others
Michael Ketchmark filed the new lawsuit just moments after a jury sided with his clients in the Sitzer | Burnett case. The new suit claims another batch of companies committed a conspiracy
Jury awards $5B to homesellers in landmark Sitzer | Burnett verdict
Jurors in the 2-week commission trial shocked the real estate industry Tuesday, awarding an astonishing $5.36B in damages to homesellers after deliberating for 2 hours and 28 minutes
by Andrea V. Brambila Oct 31
Sitzer | Burnett closing arguments wrap as judgment day approaches
In a final push on Monday, attorneys for real estate franchisors and the National Association of Realtors argued that homesellers in the case failed to prove a conspiracy to inflate commissions
by Andrea V. Brambila Oct 31
Gary Keller takes stand in person as Sitzer | Burnett verdict nears
Keller Williams co-founder Gary Keller provided lengthy testimony Friday as the defense wrapped up a case to be decided by a Kansas City jury later this week
Anywhere, RE/MAX agree to settle Nosalek commission lawsuit
New legal filings propose that MLS PIN class members from the Nosalek lawsuit be included in the 'substantive terms' of the Sitzer/Burnett and Moehrl settlements with Anywhere and RE/MAX
by Lillian Dickerson Oct 25
Sitzer | Burnett judge refuses defendants' request for mistrial
HomeServices of America attorneys filed a motion Wednesday requesting a mistrial in the Sitzer | Burnett trial, saying a video submitted a day earlier jeopardizes its chances for a fair trial
Andy Florance: Zillow isn't ready for post-commission portal revolution
In the opening remarks of CoStar Group's Q3 earnings call Tuesday, CEO Andy Florance revealed to investment analysts the company's grand plan to make Homes.com the portal of the future
by Marian McPherson Oct 25
Tom Ferry podcast video delivers fresh drama at Sitzer | Burnett trial
Plaintiffs’ attorney Michael Ketchmark played a video of a Tom Ferry interview with Allan Dalton of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices that drew objections and threatened to derail proceedings
by Andrea V. Brambila Oct 25
'Rabbit gets the gun': The essential guide to Week 1 of Sitzer | Burnett
Big names, heated exchanges and the emergence of homeseller plaintiffs on the stand dominated the first week of the Sitzer | Burnett commission trial in Kansas City, Missouri
by Jim Dalrymple II Oct 23
Under their thumbs: The enigmatic homesellers behind Sitzer | Burnett
The plaintiffs in a class action antitrust suit challenging the industry’s commission structure took to the stand to make the case that the practice of homesellers paying buyer agents is 'unfair'
by Andrea V. Brambila Oct 19
Agent training, objection scripts on trial as Sitzer | Burnett ends Day 3
On Day 2 of witness testimony Wednesday, attorney Michael Ketchmark narrowed in on training materials and presentation slides he alleged violated antitrust policies held by the defendants
by Andrea V. Brambila Oct 18
Gary Keller, Bob Goldberg among first to testify in Sitzer | Burnett
As the commission trial begins, the Kansas City courtroom saw opening arguments and testimony from industry leaders Keller, Goldberg and HomeServices of America CEO Gino Blefari
by Andrea V. Brambila Oct 17
Read the playbooks of NAR, Keller Williams ahead of Sitzer | Burnett
The National Association of Realtors, Keller Williams, HomeServices and its subsidiaries BHH Affiliates and HSF Affiliates submitted their trial briefs ahead of the antitrust trial in Kansas City
by Andrea V. Brambila Oct 17
NAR to shed 1M members if shared commission banned, analysts say
A report released Oct. 4 by the investment banking firm Keefe, Bruyette & Woods forecasts commissions to decline by at least 30% as a result of ongoing threats to the real estate industry
by Taylor Anderson Oct 16
Sitzer | Burnett: Live updates from the buyer-agent commission trial
The long-awaited Sitzer|Burnett commission trial is underway in Kansas City, Missouri, and Inman is covering it all live as it unfolds. Check back early and often for news, views, schedules and more
by Inman Oct 16
Full court press: What to know as the Sitzer | Burnett trial unfolds
The allegations, the high-profile witnesses slated to testify and all the evidence the jury will and won't see — it's all here as the long-awaited Sitzer | Burnett commission trial unfolds this week
by Andrea V. Brambila Oct 16
Stakes are incalculable for NAR as bombshell commission trial looms
Next week's long-anticipated Sitzer/Burnett commission trial is only the most immediate threat to real estate's most powerful trade organization as it navigates a series of existential challenges
by Jim Dalrymple II Oct 11
Anywhere reveals the details of its bombshell commission settlement
Among the proposed changes, Anywhere said its company-owned brokerages, franchisees and affiliated agents will no longer be required to belong to the National Association of Realtors
by Taylor Anderson Oct 6
Canada flag Canadian flag
A federal judge struck down charges that defendants conspired to 'fix,' 'maintain' and 'increase' prices for buyer brokerage services, but allowed claims they sought to 'control' prices to proceed
by Andrea V. Brambila Sep 29
RE/MAX settles bombshell commission lawsuits for $55M
The deal resolves claims in both the Sitzer and Moehrl antitrust cases. The franchisor agreed to change its business practices, including 'no longer forcing homesellers to pay buyer’s agents'
by Andrea V. Brambila Sep 18
NAR seeks to suppress DOJ probe from jury as commission trial nears
The National Association of Realtors filed 4 requests in the US District Court in Western Missouri on Thursday involving commission rule changes, government investigations and discrimination
by Andrea V. Brambila Aug 25
Judge narrows in on trial date for bombshell commission lawsuit
If the parties don't settle, expect a lengthy trial for the Moehrl homesellers' case against NAR, Anywhere, Keller Williams, RE/MAX and HomeServices of America
by Andrea V. Brambila May 30