What actually changed after the NAR settlement?
Two things, for ordinary buyers and sellers. First: buyer's agents need a signed written agreement before touring homes with you, and it has to state their compensation. Second: offers of buyer-agent pay came off the MLS — if a seller contributes to the buyer's side, it's negotiated in the purchase offer like any other term.
Just as important is what didn't change. Commissions were always negotiable; now the paperwork makes that impossible to miss. Sellers can still offer concessions. And Minnesota buyers lost nothing — state law already required written buyer agreements before the settlement existed.
The practice changes took effect in August 2024, and by now they're just how business works. If the headlines left you with questions about your specific situation, that's a coffee conversation. No pitch — just the rules, translated.
I wrote this answer, and I stand behind it. I'm Chris Deutsch, a Minneapolis Realtor (MN #20382264). Twenty-five years of walking these neighborhoods, checking basements, and sitting across kitchen tables from people making exactly this call. I re-check every answer and date it — this one was last verified .
If your situation is more specific than the market, that's the one worth talking through. Email me at chris@lakesarearealty.com.