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NAR Consumer Guides

On March 15th, 2024, The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) reached an agreement with plaintiffs that would end litigation of claims brought on behalf of home sellers related to broker commissions. The Settlement also includes some changes to real estate transactions, but importantly, consumers will continue to have choices regarding real estate services.

Buying a home is one of the largest financial transactions most people will ever undertake. Agents who are REALTORS® are a trusted source of advice and stand ready to help you navigate your homebuying journey and make the choices that work best for you. NAR’s recent settlement has led to several changes that benefit homebuyers, and we wanted to clearly lay them out for you.

Consumer Guides

These resources cover what consumers should expect from—and how to navigate—conversations with agents who are REALTORS® about the services they need and the associated compensation.

hand shake

Consumer Guide: Written Buyer Agreements

When searching for a home, you will be asked to sign a written buyer agreement after you’ve chosen the real estate professional you want to work with.

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open house sign

Consumer Guide: Open Houses and Written Agreements

Real estate professionals nationwide will require a written agreement prior to touring a home. But what if you are just attending an open house?

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sold home

Consumer Guide: REALTORS’® Duty to Put Client Interests Above Their Own

NAR's Code of Ethics means that a REALTOR® cannot provide representation in a way that puts their own interests ahead of their clients' interests.

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Veterans home

Consumer Guide: What Veterans Need To Know about Buying a Home

REALTORS® are committed to helping ensure the unique needs of veterans and active servicemembers are met following new real estate practice changes.

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compensation

Consumer Guide: Offers of Compensation

Here's what to know about a seller or agent offering to compensate another agent for bringing a buyer to successfully close the transaction.

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written buyer agreement

Consumer Guide to Negotiating Written Buyer Agreements

Here's what to know about negotiating an agreement for services and compensation with an agent who is a REALTOR®.

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seller concessions

Consumer Guide: Seller Concessions

Home sellers may choose to offer concessions to attract buyers or close a deal. Find out if this approach is right for you.

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MLS

Consumer Guide: Multiple Listing Services (MLSs)

When buying or selling a home, your agent may use an MLS to find homes for sale or market your property. Here's what you need to know.

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Fair Housing

Consumer Guide: Fair Housing

Consumers and agents all have rights and responsibilities to promote a home buying or selling process free from discrimination.

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Listing Agreements

Consumer Guide: Listing Agreements

One of the first things you'll do when selling your home is negotiate and sign a listing agreement with your agent.

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Asking Buyer Agent

Consumer Guide: 10 Questions to Ask a Buyer's Agent

If you’re ready to buy a home, you should feel empowered to find and work with the agent who is the best fit for your needs.

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Ask Seller Agent

Consumer Guide: 10 Questions to Ask a Seller's Agent

If you’re ready to sell your home, you should feel empowered to find and work with the agent who is the best fit for your needs.

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First Time Buyer

Consumer Guide: Buying Your First Home

You’re ready to find your first home. Find out where to begin and what resources are available to you as you embark on your homeownership journey.

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Mortgage Financing

Consumer Guide: Mortgages and Financing

An agent who is a REALTOR® can help you learn about options for finding a loan that will help you pay for your new home over time.

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Steps Between Signing and Closing

Consumer Guide: Steps Between Signing and Closing

Once you sign a purchase agreement on your new home, there are still several steps to complete before you can finalize—or “close”—the transaction.

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Agency and Nonagency Relationships

Consumer Guide: Agency and Non-Agency Relationships

When buying or selling a home, agency and non-agency relationships with real estate professionals vary by state law and offer different options.

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Appraisal Process

Consumer Guide: The Appraisal Process

If you are financing your home purchase, you will likely be required to get a home appraisal as one of the steps between signing and close.

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Home Inspections

Consumer Guide: Home Inspections

Between signing and close, a buyer may have a home inspected to ensure it is in good condition and safe for a new owner. Here's what you should know.

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Homeowners Insurance

Consumer Guide: Homeowners Insurance

Understanding homeowners insurance is essential for anyone looking to purchase a home. Here's what you need to know.

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