DOJ Challenges NAR Settlement Over Commission Rules

The U.S. Department of Justice has expressed concerns over the National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement in the Sitzer/Burnett case, emphasizing that the deal should not shield NAR from future antitrust enforcement. The DOJ's filing highlights issues with buyer agent agreements, suggesting they may limit competition and urging the court to clarify that the settlement does not provide antitrust immunity. This comes ahead of the final hearing for the $418 million settlement, with implications for real estate practices nationwide.