In 2024, a $418 million settlement reshaped how buyer agents are compensated and required written buyer-broker agreements before touring homes. Many expected fees to fall. Instead, early data show little change, with average buyer-agent fees roughly steady around 2.43% in 2025.

What the WSJ reports

Many buyers are not negotiating or do not realize they can, so typical fee norms are persisting.

A slow housing market means sellers still offer to cover buyer-agent compensation to attract offers, which keeps customary rates in place.

Industry habits are sticky. Some agents continue to reinforce traditional ranges even as rules change.

A small uptick in buyers skipping agents may be emerging, yet it is too early to show broad fee declines.

Written buyer-broker agreements are now standard before showings, increasing transparency but not automatically lowering costs.

What this means for Triangle buyers and sellers

Buyers: Ask early how your agent is paid, what services are included, and whether fees are negotiable. Compare models where it makes sense.

Sellers: Expect buyer-agent compensation to be discussed off the MLS. Decide case by case based on pricing, days on market, and demand for your property.

Everyone: The new framework is still settling. Market conditions and informed negotiations will drive outcomes more than headlines.

Note: Many of the rule changes took effect in mid-August 2024, so the market is still adapting.