A federal appeals court has affirmed the lower court’s approval of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) settlement in the Sitzer-Burnett case, providing additional certainty for REALTORS®, brokerages, MLSs, and consumers as the industry continues operating under the practice changes implemented in 2024.

Background on the Settlement

Sitzer-Burnett was an antitrust class action lawsuit involving NAR and several brokerage defendants. NAR reached a nationwide settlement in 2024 that included financial relief for the class and significant changes to real estate practices.

The settlement-related practice changes took effect on August 17, 2024, including requirements related to written buyer agreements and how offers of compensation are communicated.

NAR has maintained that the settlement was intended to provide a path forward for the industry while preserving consumer choice and protecting members from continued legal uncertainty.

Appeals Court Affirms Settlement

Appeals are a common part of the class-action settlement process. According to NAR, the appeals court's decision to uphold the lower court's approval reinforces the validity of the settlement and keeps the existing practice changes in effect.

For REALTORS®, this decision does not introduce new practice changes or requirements. Instead, the rules and procedures implemented following the 2024 settlement remain in place.

NAR continues to maintain that the settlement and its practice changes provide consumers with greater choice and transparency when working with real estate professionals.

What Comes Next?

The plaintiffs may still pursue additional legal options, including asking the U.S. Supreme Court to consider an appeal. For now, however, the appeals court decision leaves the approved settlement intact.

REALTORS® should continue following the practice requirements already in place and stay informed through NAR, GAAR, and Southwest MLS as additional guidance becomes available.

Review NAR's Settlement Resources