The dynamic between buyers, sellers, and agents has seen significant changes over the years due to technological advancements and legal reforms. Recent developments within the National Association of Realtors (NAR) regarding commissions have addressed longstanding concerns surrounding the compensation of buyer’s agents.
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The Role of Agents
In the past, real estate agents acted as gatekeepers of property information, but the internet has empowered buyers to discover new listings, assess the suitability of the properties, and even schedule home tours independently. While information has become easier to access, buyer’s agents still play a crucial role in helping potential homebuyers consider their options before making an offer.
Historically, home sellers bore the cost of commissions for both seller’s and buyer’s agents, typically calculated as a percentage of the sales price. Although real estate commissions have always been negotiable, questions arose about the alignment of value agents provide with the costs associated with their services. While it’s illegal for a buyer’s agent to steer their client toward a higher paying home, it was suggested in multiple cases that this can happen.
Legal Reforms
The lawsuits and scrutiny from regulatory bodies like the Department of Justice sparked re-evaluation of commission structures. The DOJ suggested that current practices unfairly elevate the cost of buying a home and may put pressure on sellers to maintain the high commission rates. As part of the settlement, when agents go to list homes on the Multiple Listing Services (MLS), they’ll no longer be able to list the commission owed to the buyer’s agent.
Beginning August 2024, the MLS field which advertises buyer’s agent compensation will go away. Buyers will be required to have a written agreement with their agent, clearly outlining the fees.
Implications for Buyers and Sellers
The new ruling is expected to make commissions more transparent and competitive. We could see agents offering flat fees, hourly charges, etc. instead of charging a percentage of the sale price. Ultimately, agent compensation will remain negotiable and can be discussed off-MLS between parties.
As the real estate landscape continues to evolve, it’s important for buyers and sellers to understand changes and how they are affected by them. Jay Zerquera of Acrisure Mortgage underscores the value of professional representation for both buyers and sellers: “Buying a home can be complex, with numerous details to oversee. That’s why having a professional by your side is crucial! At Acrisure Mortgage, we believe that partnering with a real estate expert helps prevent avoidable headaches, confusion, and setbacks that often arise when buyers or sellers attempt to manage everything themselves. You truly get the value you pay for!”
Understanding changes to the home market is an important part of homeownership. Keep up with the latest mortgage news on our blog. Working with experienced real estate and mortgage professionals can help provide you peace of mind and guidance through your homebuying process. Ready to take the next step? Contact one of our Loan Officers today.
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About Acrisure Mortgage
Acrisure Mortgage (formerly FBC Mortgage, LLC) is a Top 10 national mortgage lender headquartered in Orlando, Florida. Licensed in 49 states and supported by more than 19,000 dedicated professionals across Acrisure, we specialize in residential mortgage lending through both retail and wholesale/correspondent channels. Our comprehensive offerings include purchase, refinance, construction and renovation loans—tailored to meet the unique needs of homebuyers, homeowners and partners nationwide.
We are proud to serve as a trusted partner to many of the nation’s largest homebuilders and real estate professionals, with a strong foundation of loyal, satisfied clients. Recognized for our commitment to service, innovation and operational excellence, Acrisure Mortgage has received numerous national accolades, including Top 50 Mortgage Companies, Best in Loan Delivery and Best Place to Work honors.
As part of the Acrisure family, we are backed by a global fintech leader that shares our values of innovation, integrity and service. Together, this empowers us to expand our capabilities, leverage world-class technology and resources, and grow alongside the clients and communities we serve.
All information presented is for educational purposes only and not intended as financial advice. NMLS ID#152859 EHL ©2025.
FBC Mortgage is Now Acrisure Mortgage
FBC Mortgage officially rebranded as Acrisure Mortgage on July 1, 2025. This change reflects the company’s continued alignment with its parent company, Acrisure.
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