Real estate transaction

New Policy by REBNY Mandates Direct Payment to Buyer’s Agent

Transparency and Fairness in Real Estate Transactions Enhanced by Major Policy Change

The Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) has made a groundbreaking announcement: a new policy that requires sellers to directly pay the buyer’s agent, effective from January 1. This significant shift aims to address issues of transparency and potential conflicts of interest in the real estate transaction process.

Transparency and Accountability: A New Era

In the existing system, listing brokers shoulder the responsibility of paying the buyer’s agent. This arrangement has raised eyebrows due to concerns about the lack of transparency regarding commission sharing and potential conflicts of interest. REBNY’s new policy, which requires sellers to directly pay the buyer’s agent, is an attempt to enhance transparency and accountability in real estate transactions.

Legal documents

The Backdrop: Lawsuits and Controversy

REBNY’s decision to implement this new policy comes amidst ongoing lawsuits related to commission sharing. Allegations of unethical practices, such as inadequate disclosure of commission splits, have raised questions about the fairness and transparency of the current system. These lawsuits have ignited a heated debate within the industry.

By mandating sellers to directly pay the buyer’s agent, REBNY aims to address these concerns and establish a more equitable system for all parties involved in real estate transactions.

Impact on real estate industry

Real Estate Industry: The Potential Impact

The implementation of this new policy is expected to have a significant impact on the real estate industry. Sellers will now need to factor in the cost of the buyer’s agent commission when pricing their properties. This adjustment may lead to changes in listing prices and potentially affect negotiations between buyers and sellers.

While the policy change aims to promote transparency and fairness, there are concerns about its potential implications. Some industry experts worry that it may result in higher costs for sellers, which could ultimately be passed on to buyers. However, others believe that the change will level the playing field and create a more balanced and transparent real estate market.

Future implications

The Road Ahead

As the implementation date approaches, the real estate industry eagerly awaits the impact of this policy change. Further discussions and adjustments are expected as stakeholders navigate the new landscape. The future implications of this decision by REBNY remain to be seen, and the industry will closely monitor the outcomes.

Real Estate Education at Cameron Academy: An Exploration

Stay Informed and Stay Ahead in the Real Estate Industry

Cameron Academy, a nationally recognized career education school with over 20 years of experience, offers a wide range of online courses to help you excel in your real estate career. Our innovative and interactive learning experiences, flexible schedules, and dedicated support ensure that you gain the real-world skills necessary for success.

Your Next Step in Real Estate

Sign up for our career education courses today and gain a competitive advantage in the ever-evolving real estate market.

Explore Our Courses

More Articles

Getting licensed or staying ahead in your career can be a journey—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Grab your favorite coffee or tea, take a moment to relax, and browse through our articles. Whether you’re just starting out or renewing your expertise, we’ve got tips, insights, and advice to keep you moving forward. Here’s to your success—one sip and one step at a time!

Title Insurance Leaders Double Down on Tech and Efficiency to Drive 2026 Market Momentum

The title insurance industry is entering 2026 with a renewed focus on technology, operational efficiency, and stronger agent support after years of volatility. Leaders from major underwriters report rising transaction activity, improved affordability, and a surge in automation and fraud‑prevention tools—signs that smarter systems and better training will define the next wave of growth.

Mortgage CEO Barred in 21 States After Major Education Fraud Settlement

A multistate crackdown has sent shockwaves through the mortgage industry as Patrick Terrance Donlon, CEO of Trusted American Mortgage, accepted a sweeping settlement that bans him from working as a mortgage loan originator in 21 states—19 of them permanently. Regulators say Donlon had another individual complete his mandatory licensing and continuing‑education courses, a violation that triggered a coordinated investigation and a $31,000 penalty. The case underscores regulators’ growing intolerance for education fraud and serves as a sharp reminder to industry professionals: cutting corners on licensing can end careers.

Florida’s Real Estate Slowdown: How Insurance Costs Are Reshaping the Market

Florida’s once‑booming housing market is cooling fast as rising insurance premiums, increasing foreclosures, and expanding flood zones push buyers to back out of deals and force sellers to cut prices. With insurance now adding thousands to annual housing costs, professionals across real estate, mortgage, and insurance are navigating a dramatically shifting landscape that’s redefining affordability in the Sunshine State.

New Florida Laws Taking Effect January 1, 2026: Key Changes Every Professional Should Know

Florida begins 2026 with a wave of more than 250 new laws now in effect, impacting healthcare, insurance, real estate, and consumer protections statewide. From free breast cancer screenings for state employees to tighter pet insurance regulations, mandatory healthcare refund rules, enhanced animal‑cruelty penalties, and new condo‑management requirements, these updates carry major implications for professionals navigating Florida’s evolving regulatory landscape.

Florida’s Barrier Islands: Why Paradise Living Comes With Sky‑High Risks for Homeowners and Agents

Florida’s barrier islands may offer postcard-perfect beaches and soaring real estate demand, but they’re also some of the most fragile and costly places to build in the United States. With 765,000 residents living on land that shifts, sinks, and takes the brunt of every major hurricane, the financial and insurance risks are accelerating fast. From billion‑dollar beach rebuilds to towers settling into the sand, today’s coastal development challenges are reshaping conversations around property values, disclosure, and long‑term resilience. For real estate professionals, understanding these risks isn’t just smart — it’s becoming essential.

Cedar City Builder Redefines Affordable Housing With Luxury‑Style Twin Homes

A Cedar City development is turning heads with its fresh approach to affordability. The team behind Temple View Commons is delivering luxury‑inspired twin homes at prices below the local median by using a small, hands‑on staff and cutting traditional costs like realtor commissions. In a tight Utah housing market where inventory is scarce and prices remain high, their strategy offers a realistic path to homeownership without sacrificing high‑end finishes.