A massive legal settlement in the real estate world could mean you’re owed money if you sold a home between 2014 and 2024. This settlement addresses unfair commission fees and promises compensation for eligible homeowners. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is the $730 Million Real Estate Commission Settlement?
In 2025, real estate companies and the National Association of Realtors (NAR) agreed to pay over $1 billion to settle allegations that they kept home sale commissions artificially high—something that violated antitrust laws (laws meant to protect consumers from unfair business practices).
Out of this, $730 million is available to homeowners who paid these inflated commissions when selling their homes.
Why Was the Lawsuit Filed?
Traditionally, when someone sold a home:
- They paid their own agent.
- But they also had to pay the buyer’s agent—even though the buyer didn’t hire them!
Critics said this was unfair and anti-competitive, locking homeowners into a system where they couldn’t negotiate better fees. That’s why lawsuits were filed claiming unjust and coordinated price-setting in the industry.
Rather than fight in court, NAR and other companies agreed to settle and also change how commissions work moving forward.
Who are Eligible?
You may qualify for money from this settlement if:
You sold a home in the U.S.
The home was listed on a Multiple Listing Service (MLS)
You paid a real estate commission during the sale
Your sale took place between April 29, 2014, and August 17, 2024
Good news: You don’t have to prove the commission was unfair—just that you sold through MLS and paid commission.
Key Settlement Details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Settlement | Over $1 billion |
| Homeowner Payout Fund | Over $730 million |
| Key Companies Involved | National Association of Realtors, HomeServices of America |
| Eligible Sale Dates | April 29, 2014 – August 17, 2024 |
| Claim Deadline | May 9, 2025 |
| Payment Timeline | Depends on claim review and approval |
How to File a Claim (Step-by-Step)
There are two ways to file a claim:
1. Online Method:
- Visit the official site: RealEstateCommissionLitigation.com
- Fill out the claim form with details about your home sale
- Upload proof (like your closing statement)
- Submit the form online
2. By Mail:
- Download and print the claim form from the website
- Fill it out by hand
- Mail it to:
Burnett v. NAR, c/o JND Legal Administration, PO Box 91479, Seattle, WA 98111 - Make sure your envelope is postmarked by May 9, 2025
What Documents Do You Need?
To support your claim, try to gather:
- Closing Statement or HUD-1 form (shows sale date, commission paid)
- Proof that your property was listed on MLS
- Any other paperwork showing payment to your real estate agent
Tip: If you can’t find these, contact your former real estate agent or title company—they often keep these on file.
Common Issues to Watch Out For
Some people face problems like:
- Missing sale documents
- Multiple property sales during the time period
- Confusion about MLS listings
If you’re unsure, don’t guess—reach out to the Settlement Administrator listed on the website. They can guide you through what’s needed.
Important Dates You Should Know
- May 9, 2025: Last day to file your claim
- October 28, 2024: Last day to opt out of the settlement (already passed)
- November 26, 2024: The Settlement was finalized (no more changes)
What’s Changing in Real Estate Because of This?
This isn’t just about money—real estate rules are changing too:
1. No More Commission Offers in MLS
Sellers can’t offer to pay the buyer’s agent through MLS listings anymore.
Buyers now negotiate directly with their own agents.
2. Agents Must Use Written Agreements
If you’re buying a home, your agent must now give you a written contract stating:
- Their services
- How much they’ll be paid
- Who’s paying them
This avoids confusion and hidden costs.
How This Affects Homebuyers
These changes help buyers, too:
1. You can negotiate agent fees
Since commissions aren’t locked into listings, buyers can shop around and negotiate fees, possibly saving thousands.
2. You know what you’re paying for
Agents must now clearly explain their fee structure in writing—no surprises at closing.
FAQs
1. What if I can’t find my closing documents?
Try contacting:
- Your real estate agent
- The title company that handled the sale
- Your closing attorney. They often keep copies of these documents for several years.
2. What is the deadline to file?
You must file your claim by May 9, 2025.
Late submissions will not be accepted.
3. How much compensation will I receive?
The amount varies based on:
- How much commission you paid
- How many people file claims
- Verification of your documentation
There is no fixed payout amount per person.
4. How will I know if my claim has been approved?
You’ll receive a confirmation notice once your claim is submitted.
Payments will be sent out after all claims are reviewed and final approvals are complete.
5. I already filed a claim for another real estate lawsuit—should I file again?
No. If you already filed a claim in this litigation, you do not need to file again. A single claim form covers all eligible settlements.
