US housing market still ‘sluggish’ despite existing-home sales gains

Existing-home sales tallied a 1.3 percent uptick in July following four months of declines, according to NAR data released Thursday. However, market headwinds have kept sales sluggish compared to 2023. Continue reading

You’ve got mail: NAR settlement class notices head to consumers

Consumers will learn of the commission settlement via a website, emails and postcards. Claims from homesellers hoping to claim some of the settlement money are due by next May. Continue reading

When is a buyer contract required? At showings — but not open houses

The National Association of Realtors’ proposed settlement agreement requires brokers and agents to sign contracts with buyers they’re “working with.” But what exactly does that mean? Continue reading

Change is here: Take the Inman Intel Index survey for August

The Inman Intel Index goes beyond sentiment and trends by tapping into the industry’s most engaged community. Add your voice to real estate’s most ambitious monthly survey today. Continue reading

In lawns and on key chains, stealth commission offers raise red flags

Images that conceal commission offers, like a “3%” mowed into freshly cut grass, have become a phenomenon on message boards and online residential listings, according to an Inman analysis. Continue reading

‘Business as usual’: Hiccups but few calamities as NAR rules roll out

New National Association of Realtors rules kicked in Saturday. By Monday, agents said they were fielding questions from clients, among other hurdles, but not seeing widespread chaos. Continue reading

In historic first, Nykia Wright named first female CEO of NAR

Wright has served as NAR’s interim CEO since November after she replaced Bob Goldberg. She was instantly thrust into leading an organization in turmoil. Continue reading

NAR settlement rules: Live updates as the real estate changes roll out

New rules stemming from the National Association of Realtors’ landmark commission settlement went into effect Saturday. Inman is tracking the impacts of those rules in real time. Continue reading

The commission change mega-FAQ you need to start the historic week

Now that the “New Normal” has officially begun, it’s time to answer the frequently asked questions agents and brokerages have about the newly implemented commission settlement rule changes. Continue reading

Michael Ketchmark: Every move you make, we’ll be watching you

In a phone interview, lead plaintiffs’ counsel Michael Ketchmark weighed in on the consequences of violating the NAR settlement, Zillow’s business model, and the “monster case” that remains. Continue reading