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This article was last updated Aug. 19, 2024.
Beginning the day the National Association of Realtors announced their settlement in the commission lawsuits, Inman has been reaching out to industry leaders, visionary brokers and team leaders, thoughtful coaches and trainers, and boots-on-the-ground agents for the best advice to help you navigate the new normal of real estate service.
Now, as the settlement terms have finally gone into effect, we want to make sure you have everything you need in one handy-dandy place so that you can easily refer back to it in the days ahead. We’ll continue updating it with all of the latest information, categorized for your convenience.
Read it, share it and allow this resource roundup to guide you through the changes you’ll make, the client conversations and even the mindset shifts that are necessary right now.
The transition is here
NAR settlement rules: Live updates as the real estate changes roll out
New rules stemming from the National Association of Realtors’ landmark commission settlement went into effect Saturday. Inman is tracking the impacts of those rules in real time.
The commission change mega-FAQ you need to start the historic
Now that the ‘New Normal’ has officially begun, it’s time to answer the frequently asked questions agents and brokerages have about the newly implemented commission settlement rule changes.
Michael Ketchmark: Every move you make, we’ll be watching you
In a phone interview, lead plaintiffs’ counsel Michael Ketchmark weighed in on the consequences of violating the NAR settlement, Zillow’s business model, and the ‘monster case’ that remains.
A brave new world awaits the real estate industry. Are you prepared?
Beginning Saturday, new rules around commissions take effect, paving the way for the biggest shift in real estate in at least a generation. It’s a brave new world, and it begins this weekend.
NAR settlement still an enigma for some ahead of big Aug. 17
Last week, the brightest minds in real estate converged at Inman Connect to set agents, brokers and MLS members straight on the finer points of the new rules taking effect in less than two weeks.
Consumer watchdog advises buyers to pay agents ‘2% or
The Consumer Federation of America also tells consumers not to agree to pay an agent just to see a home, but to sign a touring agreement with no financial obligation instead.
8 key ways our team is preparing for Aug. 17
Team leader Carl Medford is being proactive and prepared as his team gears up for the changes that will follow the implementation of the National Association of Realtors’ settlement agreement.
7 things to know before the Aug. 17 settlement implementation
The clock is ticking on implementation of NAR’s commission lawsuit settlement. Team leader Carl Medford outlines what buyer agents need to know to be successful under the new rules of the road.
Let’s debunk 7 mainstream media falsehoods, post-NAR settlement
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.
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.
Will flashy gifts and open houses end once commissions decouple?
Based on conversations with luxury agents across both coasts, there’s still a lot of uncertainty about how far-reaching the changes that come with commissions decoupling may be.
13 more questions agents should ask about commission settlements
There’s plenty that’s still not clear as the Aug. 17 implementation deadline approaches, broker Cara Ameer writes. Here’s how to make sure your seatbelts are fastened as you brace for impact.
Commission Crunch: 5 tips to avoid scrutiny and remain in
Clients are watching you now more than ever, compliance expert Summer Goralik writes. Here’s how to implement best practices now, so you can avoid complaints as the industry shifts.
Seeing the positive
NAR: Settlement mandates ‘benefit’ buyers and
Consumer guides from the trade group offer a contrast to previous messaging, but also continue to promote pre-emptive offers of compensation to buyer agents.
E&V’s Anthony Hitt says the best thing agents can do now is
The Engel & Völkers Americas president and CEO took time to chat with Inman and shared why agents should be concentrating on relationships — not confusion around commission lawsuits.
Be bold: How to be a champion of change during uncertain
As we face change as an industry, it’s crucial to be able to face that change with confidence in order to be able to thrive, broker Joseph Santini writes. Here’s how to build a tolerance for change.
Worried about doing fewer deals? Sell more expensive homes
NAR’s commission suit settlement policy changes are coming. If you’re worried about fewer deals in your future, maybe it’s time to focus on a higher price point, broker Anthony Marguleas writes.
Sue Yannaccone: It’s time for agents to seize the
President and CEO of Anywhere Brands Sue Yannaccone offers advice and perspective for the professional changes ahead.
BHGRE’s Ginger Wilcox on how to build resilience that hits
Renovations don’t just apply to your home, the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate president writes. They can also apply to your professional and personal endeavors.
Be different. Be special. Be the expert your clients need
Mastering a niche makes you more valuable in the eyes of consumers, senior real estate expert Nikki Buckelew writes, and it makes selling real estate a far more interesting and enjoyable career.
Embrace innovation in real estate: A call to action for industry leaders
The future of real estate lies in our industry’s ability to innovate, adapt and align our brands with the evolving market landscape, PR and marketing expert Molly McKinley writes.
Change is a constant. Here’s how to navigate it — no matter the market
Navigating change in the dynamic real estate market, Rainy Hake Austin writes, demands a blend of self-awareness, strategic planning and effective utilization of support systems.
Tom Ferry: ‘The NAR settlement is a once in a lifetime opportunity!’
Jimmy Burgess and Tom Ferry talk industry changes and offer a selection of scripts that are really working right now.
9 strategies to move past lawsuit fatigue and get back to business
We’re all in this together, writes coach Darryl Davis, so here’s how to avoid burnout and frustration by charting a path forward for your real estate business.
How to ignore the legal drama and focus on the opportunity
While you need to be aware of the changes going on in the industry, CEO Verl Workman writes, you also need to make sure to keep your focus on what you can control.
Bad at math? Let David Childers illuminate the latest data
Keeping Current Matters CEO David Childers and Jimmy Burgess discuss why a relevant market opinion based on facts, not fears, is key for educating consumers and navigating industry changes.
Answering client questions
From fringe to forefront? What agent ‘steering’ will look like
A survey of hundreds of real estate agents suggests that ‘steering’ based on commissions used to be rare. After the Aug. 17 deadline, it may become ubiquitous — but with buyers in the driver’s seat.
Is it possible to market a seller wanting to offer a
With all the commission confusion as we near the Aug. 17 implementation deadline, compliance expert Summer Goralik is here to answer your burning questions, starting with concessions.
Are we allowed to let clients know about concessions
With all the commission confusion surrounding the new rule implementation, compliance expert Summer Goralik answers your burning questions.
Homebuyers dig the NAR deal until they learn the details: Intel
Even if the settlement brings down commissions overall, buyers grow warier the more they learn about what the policy means for them, according to the latest Inman-Dig Insights consumer poll.
Guidance or steering? Red flags of giving professional advice
Understanding the difference between steering and providing meaningful advice to clients is essential for navigating the future of real estate, mega team leader Carl Medford writes.
6 steps that transform neglected clients into lifelong partners
Staying in touch with past clients and ‘orphans’ long after closing could be the key to a lifetime of repeat and referral opportunities. Coach Darryl Davis offers a strategy to help you reconnect.
Bad reputation: 3 shifts that cloud the public’s perception of agents
Mega team leader Carl Medford points to several massive shifts that have caused the current commission crisis and the path he sees forward.
Buyers
11 things great buyer’s agents know before they show a
Working with buyers is changing. Are you ready? Jimmy Burgess offers the insight you need so you can prove your value as you serve buyer clients.
7 musts for buyer presentations ahead of the commission
Marketing expert Marci James shares strategies designed to help you showcase your value, negotiate commissions with confidence and build a thriving buyer’s agent business in 2024.
12 potential pivot points for buyers planning to represent themselves
Bi-coastal luxury agent Cara Ameer says these thoughtful points can pivot DIY buyer prospects into loyal lifelong clients.
10 answers to the questions confused buyers are asking now
Realtors and buyers are both confused right now, writes mega-team leader Carl Medford. To help buyers sort out the mess, here are our top 10 answers for buyer questions.
12 factors that convince a buyer to pay a full-service commission
Expressing your value to clients begins with knowing yourself, writes mega-team leader Carl Medford. You cannot articulate what you have never taken the time to determine on your own.
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.
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.
Sellers
A 9-step ‘listening’ consultation to help you talk to sellers post-Aug. 17
Be prepared for a listing appointment at a moment’s notice, have the tools at your fingertips, take notes, build connections, and stay focused on what’s best for the seller, Bernice Ross writes.
It’s still a listings game! 5 effective ways to generate listings
Post-NAR settlement, it’s never been more critical to generate listings, Jimmy Burgess says. That’s why he sat down with Curaytor’s Jimmy Mackin to highlight these winning strategies.
10 answers to the questions confused sellers are asking now
The changing real estate landscape and media misinformation are creating confusion for homesellers. Mega-team leader Carl Medford lays out the facts so you can educate clients.
A never-fail, step-by-step blueprint to consistently find listing leads
Change is coming, so it’s time to make sure you’re leaning into the potential of a listings-based business, Jimmy Burgess writes. Nothing helps do that better than geographic farming.
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.
The ‘Chick-fil-A on Sunday’ ChatGPT listing presentation plan
This step-by-step listing presentation blueprint from Jimmy Burgess and your listing appointments will be like Chick-fil-A on a Sunday — closed.
Dual agency
Dual agency is gaining momentum. Should you walk the tightrope?
Real estate compliance expert Summer Goralik looks at the projected prevalence of dual agency and offers a prescription for determining whether it’s the best option for agents and their clients.
Forms and paperwork
Watch out for these 3 pitfalls to avoid pricey fines in your future
Steep fines can stack up and swiftly put you in a sticky situation. What’s worse is when it’s your competition turning you in. Trainer Rachael Hite tells you how to stay on the right side of the rules.
Real unveils resources to train agents on settlement
Materials include a guidebook on the post-settlement landscape, publicly available training sessions and more ahead of Aug. 17 deadline.
CRMLS warns of ‘serious fines’ as it rolls out commission changes
The nation’s largest MLS removed compensation fields from its platforms on Aug. 13, after offering detailed guidance to agents on the terms of NAR’s proposed settlement.
Zillow releases 24 state-compliant short-term touring agreements
Four months after releasing a first-of-its-kind short-term touring agreement, Zillow has released 24 state-compliant versions of the agreement exclusively for Premier Agent partners.
Consumer watchdog holds up new eXp seller contract as
A new draft seller contract that eXp Realty is distributing to its brokers and agents is largely consistent with a newly issued set of criteria from the Consumer Federation of America.
Watchdog group takes aim at California buyer rep
New report shines light on buyer representation agreements as brokerages and Realtor organizations move to update forms and comply with legal settlements this summer.
Listing agreement slammed as CFA resumes California Realtors
The second report by the Consumer Federation of America to focus on the California Association of Realtors in as many weeks examines the association’s 7,000-word homeseller listing agreement.
CAR changes commission-sharing on forms following DOJ
The California Association of Realtors says even though offers of compensation among brokers remain legal, members and their clients should not rely on “historically common practices.”
Consumer watchdog develops new standard to assess buyer
After brokerages and MLSs reached out, the Consumer Federation of America created criteria focused on whether agreements are readable, understandable, and fair to buyers.
CRMLS removes seller concession fields due to CAR forms change
California Regional MLS will continue to allow agents to indicate whether sellers will consider concessions but will no longer have the option to specify a dollar amount or percentage.
EXp not ‘doing broker-to-broker compensation’ — with
A much-discussed listing agreement update reflects upcoming NAR rules, but it doesn’t bar sellers from offering compensation to buyers’ agents.
MLSs and workarounds
In historic first, Nykia Wright named first female CEO of NAR
Wright has served as NAR’s interim CEO since November after she replaced Bob Goldberg. She was instantly thrust into leading an organization in turmoil.
Michigan Realtors are mad as hell, and they’re suing: The Download
NAR buckles up for a new legal brouhaha as Michigan agents and brokers head to court over “compulsory” membership to access the MLS after removing “guaranteed broker commission.”
Michigan agents and brokers sue NAR due to antitrust
The plaintiffs protest ‘compulsory’ Realtor membership to access the MLS after the removal of ‘the guaranteed broker commission’ from the MLS.
Get ready for the dawning of a golden age of
Is it time to abandon ship or time to double down on what’s great about MLSs? MLS tech expert Bill Fowler writes that the answer lies in your vision and ability to act proactively and decisively.
Local MLSs are doomed. The case for data consolidation in real
The thing holding many local MLSs in place is a desire for power and control rather than seeking the best for real estate agents and brokers, writes Mainframe Real Estate founder Sean Frank.
Ed Zorn: Why mandatory buyer contracts are a ‘big consumer win’
California Regional MLS’s general counsel talks offers of compensation, seller concessions, steering and buyer agency agreements ahead of his appearance at Inman Connect Las Vegas.
Expect more guidance from NAR — but fewer rules: CMLS CEO Evans
CMLS CEO Denee Evans revealed why she believes NAR will choose not to create new MLS rules over the next six to 12 months ahead of her appearance next week at Inman Connect Las Vegas.
Dwiggins’ warning on commission workarounds: Prepare to be
NextHome CEO James Dwiggins shares his thoughts on agents who use websites designed to advertise offers of compensation from listings after the NAR settlement takes effect next month.
Getting your mind(set) right
Today marks the dawn of a new day for real estate. Make the most of it
The best real estate agents will thrive, the profession will be elevated, rot will be removed and the brands that are built on trust and integrity will rise to the top, Inman founder Brad Inman writes.
The simple, powerful commission mindset reset you need
Bernice Ross talks with James Dwiggins about the new rules of the road when it comes to agent compensation and client negotiations.
Gary Keller’s advice for navigating recession, commission
At Keller Williams’ annual Mega Agent Camp, franchise founder Gary Keller and several leaders shared how agents can navigate recession fears and commission confusion with clarity.
KW’s Jason Abrams talks being ‘antifragile’ in the face of
On Day One of Keller Williams’ annual Mega Agent Camp in Austin, Head of Industry and Learning Jason Abrams talks commissions and how leaders must help agents thrive through change.
Brad Inman: Be decisive, practice self-care and be
To get through the industry’s perfect storm, the Inman News founder told ICLV attendees to “think big [and] act big, because the goddamn problem is very big.”
Redfin CEO talks lapdogs, wolves and riding out commission
At Inman Connect Las Vegas, Redfin CEO Glenn Kelman described an increasingly complicated commission landscape and the shift brokerages and portals must make.
NAR President Kevin Sears sends message of resilience at
‘I hope — at the end of the day, at the end of the 2-year term — to be able to look back and say there was some stability and calm,’ Sears told hundreds of ICLV attendees, many of them NAR members.
The rules are changing. Here’s how to stay afloat in the days
By approaching change with a positive, growth mindset and intentionality, coaches Emily Bossert and Melanie Klein write, you’ll be ready for whatever comes next in business and life.
This is fine. Everything is fine: How to be grateful when times are tough
Broker Aaron Hendon teaches you how to cultivate an attitude of gratitude, even when it’s tough to stay positive and productive.
How to own your value in a post-NAR settlement world
As we move forward together, eXp’s Kendall Bonner writes, demonstrating a higher level of knowledge and expertise is essential for conveying your worth to potential clients.
Don’t let your feelings or bank account dictate your value
If you’re having trouble conveying your value to clients, it may be because you don’t believe in it yourself. Coach Darryl Davis provides the pep talk you need to take center stage as a client coach and advocate.
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.
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.
