As REALTORS?, maintaining compliance with antitrust laws is essential to protecting both your business and the reputation of our industry. In the real estate industry, this means each brokerage must independently decide its fees, commissions, and business practices. The goal of antitrust laws is to protect consumers by ensuring open, competitive markets.
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Each brokerage establishes its own pricing independently; all commission rates and fees are negotiable.
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It is illegal to agree on prices or commission rates; there is no standard or required commission rate.
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It is illegal to divide up markets or customers or coordinate business practices that limit competition.
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Associations do not regulate or influence fees.
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It is illegal to boycott certain companies or individuals.
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Communications should never imply coordinated pricing or business practice among competitors.
Maintaining clear, independent pricing practices helps ensure compliance with antitrust laws and protects the integrity of our industry. Penalties for antitrust violations can be severe and may include criminal charges, large fines and even jail time. Even casual conversations about commission rates, fees, or “standard pricing” with competitors can create an antitrust risk. Please remain vigilant in your discussions.
Learn More: https://www.nar.realtor/videos/window-to-the-law/antitrust-for-real-estate-professionals
