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What Sellers Should Know About the NAR Settlement

06/8/24  |  Stephanie Nash

Insightful Guidance on the NAR Settlement and Its Implications for Home Sellers.


The real estate landscape has undergone a significant transformation with the recent National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement. Stemming from a class-action lawsuit that challenged longstanding industry practices regarding broker compensation, the settlement introduces new rules that every home seller should be aware of. As a seller, it’s important to understand the critical aspects of the settlement, how it affects the process of selling a home, and what you need to consider under the new regulations.

Overview of the NAR Settlement


The lawsuit leading to the NAR settlement centered on the traditional practice where the seller pays the commissions of both the listing and the buyer's brokers. Critics argued that this system lacked transparency and could disincentivize price competition among brokers. The settlement that emerged from this legal challenge mandates significant changes intended to foster transparency and fairness in the real estate market.

Key Changes Affecting Sellers


Transparency in Commission Disclosure


One of the most impactful changes is the requirement for more transparent disclosure of broker commissions. Sellers must now have a clear understanding of how much they are paying both their own and the buyer's brokers. This transparency is designed to help sellers make more informed decisions about how they sell their home and at what cost.

Impact on Listing Agreements


The settlement affects how listing agreements are structured, specifically regarding how commissions are offered to buyer brokers. Sellers will need to discuss with their listing agents how much will be offered to the buyer's broker and how this offer will be communicated in the listing. This could influence the attractiveness of the listing to potential buyers who are also considering the costs incurred by their brokers.

Implications for Home Sellers


Potential Changes in Market Dynamics


With increased transparency and the ability for buyers to negotiate their broker's fees directly, the dynamics of the real estate market may shift. Sellers might find themselves in a position where they need to adjust their pricing strategies or enhance their property's appeal to remain competitive. This could lead to a more buyer-driven market, where sellers need to be more proactive in how they market and negotiate the sale of their homes.

Strategic Considerations for Pricing


The new rules could potentially lower the overall cost of selling a home by affecting how commissions are structured and negotiated. Sellers should work closely with their agents to understand how these changes might impact their specific situation, particularly in terms of setting competitive pricing and understanding the net proceeds from a sale.

Navigating the New Real Estate Landscape as a Seller


Educate Yourself on the New Rules


Sellers are advised to familiarize themselves with the new requirements regarding commission transparency and negotiation. Understanding these rules will enable sellers to work more effectively with their agents and craft listing agreements that meet legal standards while aligning with their selling objectives.

Consult with Real Estate Professionals


Given the complexities introduced by the settlement, consulting with real estate professionals who have a deep understanding of the new regulations is crucial. These professionals can offer tailored advice that aligns with market conditions and the seller’s goals.

Review Marketing Strategies


The changes brought about by the NAR settlement may require sellers to rethink their home marketing strategies. This includes evaluating how the home is presented, advertised, and shown to potential buyers to maximize its appeal and to ensure compliance with new transparency requirements.

Adapting to Changes with Confidence


The NAR settlement introduces a new era in real estate transactions, emphasizing fairness and transparency. For sellers, adapting to these changes is crucial for successfully navigating the current market landscape and achieving optimal outcomes in their real estate transactions.

Partner with Stephanie Nash for Expert Guidance


In this evolving market, partnering with a knowledgeable real estate professional is more important than ever. Stephanie Nash offers expert guidance and personalized service to help sellers navigate the complexities of the NAR settlement. Contact Stephanie Nash today to ensure your home selling process is smooth, compliant, and successful.

*Header image courtesy of Stephanie Nash



Stephanie Nash

Stephanie Nash

About The Author

For more than three decades, Stephanie Nash has been one of the Peninsula’s most trusted and proven real estate advisors, serving Woodside, Portola Valley, Atherton, Redwood City, Emerald Hills, San Carlos, Half Moon Bay, and the surrounding communities from Burlingame to Los Gatos.

Born and raised on the Peninsula, Stephanie brings true insider knowledge of the region; its micro-neighborhoods, school corridors, country-property enclaves, and the lifestyle features that make this area so coveted: sunny weather, an easygoing spirit, hiking trails, large-parcel retreats, ocean-view hillsides, and world-class food and culture.

A career built on experience, ethics, and results

Stephanie began her real estate career in 1987 working in local title companies before becoming the assistant to a top-producing agent. She earned her real estate license in 1991, and since then has built a reputation as a solutions-driven, ethical, and steady negotiator who guides clients through every complexity of a California transaction.

Her track record includes everything from luxury estates to rural acreage to trust and estate sales, including the successful sale of a 500-acre property, a transaction requiring extensive due diligence, jurisdictional navigation, and long-term strategy.

Nationally recognized performance

Stephanie has been recognized multiple times by RealTrends as one of the “Best Agents in America,” most recently in 2024; an honor reserved for the top tier of agents nationwide based on verified production.

Expert Witness in Real Estate Matters

In addition to client representation, Stephanie now serves as a retained Expert Witness in California real estate cases—including valuation disputes, fiduciary sales, marketing standards, agent performance, disclosure practices, and industry-standard care.

What clients rely on her for

Whether you are buying, selling, downsizing, expanding, or handling a trust/estate sale, Stephanie offers:

  • Deep regional expertise across multiple Peninsula micro-markets

  • Strong negotiation skills grounded in fairness, strategy, and consistent communication

  • Experience in complex transactions (trusts, estates, multiple-heir negotiations, title defects, rural land issues)

  • Compassionate guidance rooted in decades of hands-on client service

  • Unmatched availability and responsiveness

Clients praise her listening skills, honesty, and ability to navigate even the most emotional or complicated sale with clarity and professionalism.

A life built around community and care

Stephanie is deeply grateful for her family, her life on the Peninsula, and the meaningful relationships formed through her work. 

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Work With Stephanie

Stephanie respects residential real estate’s dual role as a personal investment and chief financial one. Whether you are buying or selling a home, it will likely be one of the largest financial decisions you make. Stephanie will be with you every step of the way to expertly guide you.

Let's Connect

Address

2930 Woodside Road
Woodside, CA 94062

CA DRE# 01104524

Stephanie Nash

(650) 995-3820

[email protected]

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