The recent settlement involving the National Association of Realtors (NAR) has made headlines, but what does it actually mean for the Chicago real estate market? While this news might seem significant, the reality is that the changes are more about increasing transparency than upending the way things work. Let’s take a closer look at how this settlement might affect you if you’re buying or selling a home in Chicago.
What’s the NAR Settlement Even About?
At its core, the NAR settlement is about providing more clarity around commission structures in real estate transactions. The settlement addresses how commissions are disclosed and who pays them, making it easier for consumers to understand what they’re paying for. Some people think you no longer have to pay buyer's broker. That is not the case. Before touring a home with a Realtor, buyers are now required to sign a buyer broker agreement which states how they get paid and who is responsible for the compensation. No one is now working for free, it's just a question of who is paying the buyer broker fee. It's important to note that while these changes are national, their impact will vary depending on local market practices.
Key Changes and Their Potential Impact on Chicago Real Estate
Commission Transparency
What’s Changing: The MLS is now required to NOT display buyer broker compensation.
Impact on Chicago: Instead of listing buyer broker compensation on MLS it can be confirmed via text, email, or shared on other marketing avenues like e-blasts and social media. Buyers might be able to negotiate for the seller to cover some or all of their agent's fees as part of the purchase agreement, rather than having a set commission split as in the past. The overall process of buying or selling a home isn’t expected to change significantly. You may now have to include the buyer's broker compensation in your offer to confirm the amount and who is paying it.
Buyer Representation
What’s Changing: Buyers are now required to sign a buyer broker agreement prior to seeing any homes with a Realtor which states how the broker gets paid and who is responsible for the compensation.
Impact on Chicago: While there could be some shifts in how buyers engage with brokers, the day-to-day experience of buying or selling a home in Chicago will remain much the same. Agents will continue to guide clients through the process and are required to have this form singed prior to showing homes. They state a lot of things but as it relates to compensation it will say if the seller is not offering compensation then the buyer will be responsible for it.
Competition Among Agents
What’s Changing: With more transparent commission structures, agents might face slightly more competition.
Impact on Chicago: This isn’t expected to disrupt the market. Instead, it may encourage agents to focus more on what they do best—providing excellent service and local market expertise. To learn more about our seasoned Chicagoland real estate brokers to help you navigate your next purchase or sale you can click here and see them below.
Practical Tips for Navigating the Changes
For Buyers and Sellers: Continue working closely with your broker and ask questions if you’re curious about how commissions work. The process of buying or selling a home will remain straightforward, just with a bit more clarity on the financial side.
The NAR settlement introduces some changes that are mostly about transparency and understanding, rather than major disruptions. For Chicago’s real estate market, this means business as usual—with a little extra clarity for buyers and sellers. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply understand the market better, these updates are designed to make the process even smoother.
Curious about how these changes might apply to your next real estate transaction? Reach out to us for a simple, no-pressure conversation about your options in Chicago’s real estate market. You can always explore our current listings for sale in Chicagoland here.
Our newest listing at 831 N Fairfield in West Town offered at $355,000 and offering a 2.5% broker compensation
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