By Kathy Henne

Contributing columnist

Because of the class action lawsuit in Missouri, there are nationwide changes in real estate beginning Aug. 17, 2024. Here is some information from the National Association of Realtors:

Buying a home is one of the largest financial transactions most people will ever undertake. Agents who are REALTORS are a trusted source of advice and stand ready to help you navigate your homebuying journey and make the choices that work best for you.

Buyers must sign a written agreement with your agent before touring a home. This applies to both in-person and personal video tours. You do not need a written agreement if you are just asking an agent about their services. The seller may still agree to offer compensation to your agent, but that offer cannot be stated in the Multiple Listing Service. Before an agent shows a home, they must contact the listing agent to find out about the seller compensation.

Agents who are REALTORS are here to help you navigate the homebuying process and are ethically obligated to work in your best interest. They must abide by the REALTOR Code of Ethics. You have choices. Work with an agent to understand the full range of these choices when buying a home, which will help you make the best possible decision for your needs. Please feel free to call me if you’d like more information or if I can answer any questions for you.

Contact the Kathy Henne Team Re/MAX by calling 937-778-3961