by Stephanie Gonzalez, CEO & Managing Partner To the real estate agents out there, I think you must align with a brokerage that is having conversations about the NAR settlement. You have such an important role in being an ambassador to the buyers, the sellers, and the investors of real estate out there – and it is so important that you stay aware and stay in action, so you know exactly how this impacts the clients that you represent. The National Association of REALTORS® settlement that recently happened has impacted our business. It's impacted the brokerage world, it's impacted the agents who are in it, and it's impacted the consumers and clients that we serve. To the buyers out there, it’s important for you to be in the know. Please align yourself with a knowledgeable real estate agent. Please start asking the questions – I'm sure you've seen the headlines. Start asking the questions of an agent who you want to represent you. “Do you know about the commission reform? What should I need to know about it? How does it impact me? How does it impact my potential home purchase?” To the sellers out there, you must interview a seasoned agent. Align yourself with an agent that is aware of the changes brought forth by the NAR settlement. These changes are not slight, but they have elevated a small group of people who are seasoned, who are professional, and who are paying attention. “How does this impact the sale of my home?” Ask questions, find out how much they know, and ensure that you've got somebody on your side, who has your back. Your agent will make sure that you are protected, that your transaction is properly managed, and you are guided to the right outcome for you and your family. As a brokerage, I am so proud of the approach that we took. We stayed aware and awake to what was happening. Our entire game plan that we built over the last couple of months started with awareness but ended with action.