Did you sell a home between 2015 and 2020 in the U.S.? If yes, you could be entitled to a payout from the $730 million real estate commission settlement.
This landmark legal victory challenges how agents are paid in residential transactions and opens the door for affected sellers to claim back some of the commissions they paid.
Here’s everything you need to know in plain English—who qualifies, how to file, and what changes are coming to the real estate world.
Background
This massive settlement stems from a class-action lawsuit, Burnett v. National Association of Realtors (NAR), which accused NAR and several large brokerages of colluding to keep agent commissions artificially high.
Sellers were often required to pay the buyer’s agent’s commission—regardless of any direct relationship with that agent.
A Missouri jury agreed, awarding $1.8 billion in damages. To avoid triple damages under antitrust law, the parties settled, leading to $730 million in payouts to eligible sellers. But this isn’t just about money—it’s about shaking up a decades-old system.
Lawsuit
Here’s how the total settlements break down:
| Entity | Settlement Amount |
|---|---|
| NAR (National Association of Realtors) | $418 million |
| Keller Williams | Included in total |
| RE/MAX | Included in total |
| Anywhere Real Estate (Realogy) | Included in total |
| Total Settlement Fund | $943 million |
| Portion for Seller Claims | $730 million |
This case could reshape real estate compensation forever.
Eligibility
So, do you qualify? Here’s the checklist:
- You sold a residential home in the U.S.
- Your sale happened between Jan 1, 2015, and Dec 31, 2020
- The listing was on a Multiple Listing Service (MLS)
- You paid a buyer’s agent commission
- Your broker was affiliated with NAR or companies like Keller Williams, RE/MAX, or Anywhere Real Estate
If this sounds like your situation, you could receive a meaningful payout. Even if you’re unsure, gather your paperwork and check once the claim portal opens.
Process
Here’s how to prepare and file your claim when the time comes:
- Stay Updated: Bookmark the official site (NARSettlement.com) and sign up for alerts.
- Gather Proof:
- HUD-1 or ALTA closing statements
- MLS printouts
- Agent agreements
- Commission breakdowns
- Watch for Final Approval: Court approval is expected mid-2025.
- File Your Claim: Once approved, submit your form online or by mail with your documents.
- Get Paid: Payout depends on your commission amount and how many claims are filed.
Expect hundreds—or even thousands—back if your claim is accepted.
Changes
This case isn’t just about refunds. It’s changing the rules. Here’s what’s happening from August 17, 2024:
- Sellers won’t be required to offer buyer-agent commissions on MLS.
- Buyers must have written agreements with their agents.
- MLS platforms must eliminate mandatory buyer-agent commission fields.
These changes mean more transparency, lower costs, and more negotiating power for both buyers and sellers.
Example
Let’s say Jane sold her house in 2017 for $400,000 with a 6% total commission. That’s $24,000—half of which ($12,000) went to the buyer’s agent. If her listing was on an MLS and her broker was involved in the settlement, Jane can file a claim for a portion of that $12,000.
Multiply that across millions of sales—and now you see why this matters.
FAQs
Who qualifies for this payout?
U.S. sellers from 2015–2020 who paid a buyer’s agent commission.
When can I file a claim?
Claim filing opens mid-2025 after final court approval.
What documents do I need?
Closing statements, MLS printouts, and agent contracts.
How much can I get?
Payout depends on your commission and number of valid claims.
What changes are coming to MLS rules?
No required buyer-agent commissions or hidden compensation fields.
