The episode discusses the recent real estate commission lawsuit settlement and its implications for new policies that will take effect in July. The settlement decouples the commission structure, allowing buyers to negotiate directly with their buyer's agent. The main changes are that every buyer represented by a buyer's agent will need to have a signed buyer's agreement, and the listing agent will no longer determine the buyer agent's commission. The conversation explores the winners and losers of the settlement, the potential impact on housing prices, and the role of real estate agents in the future. The conversation explores the real estate industry and the impact of a recent legal settlement on buyer agent commissions. It discusses the bias in real estate information, the number of licensed real estate agents, the low barriers to entry, and the potential consequences of the settlement. The conversation also touches on the role of class action attorneys, the need for commission structure change, and the profitability of brokerage firms. The final thought emphasizes the uncertainty surrounding the outcome of the settlement.
Bankrate journalist Jeff Ostrowski breaks down the real estate commission lawsuit, what changes starting July 2025, and what it all means for homebuyers, agents, and the future of U.S. housing.
Jeff Ostrowski is a senior journalist at Bankrate with over 20 years of experience covering real estate, business, and the economy. He serves on the board of the National Association of Real Estate Editors and is widely recognized for his clear-eyed reporting on housing trends, policy, and industry dynamics.