What the NAR Settlement Means for Home Sellers on Hawaii Island

Catherine Klug

As a Kohala coast real estate broker, I know that selling a home can be an exciting but sometimes daunting process. With the recent National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement, there are significant changes in how broker commissions are handled—changes that every home seller should understand. Let me walk you through what this means for your home sale.

First, you still have the option to offer compensation to buyer brokers, which can be an effective way to attract interested buyers to your property. However, when deciding on compensation, it’s crucial that you and your agent thoroughly review the listing agreement and consider the available choices for compensating both your listing agent and a potential buyer’s broker.

While offering compensation is still your choice, one key update is that your agent cannot post this information on a Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Instead, your property can be marketed through alternative channels like social media, printed materials, and local real estate websites, giving your home visibility in innovative ways outside of the MLS.

Rest assured that your REALTOR® is there to guide you through every step. The specifics of compensation remain negotiable, and your agent will provide you with all the options to find what works best for your situation.

These changes can seem complicated, but with the right guidance, you’ll be able to make the best decisions for your sale. I’m always available for a chat, so let’s connect, discuss your goals, and work together to achieve a successful sale!