Buyer Plaintiffs in Batton Class-Action Case Estimate $3.6 Billion in Damages From Four MLSs

Expert reports totaling 332 pages have been submitted by buyer plaintiffs in the massive Batton class-action commission case, revealing the potential for tens of billions in damages from National Association of Realtors® (NAR) policies. Dr. Rosa Abrantes-Metz, an expert in antitrust and competition, argues that not only sellers, but also homebuyers have been negatively impacted by NAR's policies.

The buyer plaintiffs in the case, which includes several MLSs, are seeking to certify a national class with the potential for $3.6 billion in damages. The case, which has been ongoing for several years, alleges that NAR's policies have resulted in inflated commissions and harmed both buyers and sellers in the real estate market.

The reports submitted by the buyer plaintiffs highlight the influence and power NAR has in the real estate industry, as well as the potential for widespread harm caused by their policies. This case has reached a critical juncture, as the plaintiffs seek to hold NAR accountable for their actions and secure justice for those affected by their policies.

According to the reports, NAR's policies have resulted in a lack of competition and transparency in the real estate market, ultimately leading to higher commission rates for both buyers and sellers. This has had a significant impact on the market, with buyers and sellers paying higher fees than they would in a more competitive market.

While NAR has maintained that their policies are in the best interest of their members and the real estate industry as a whole, the reports submitted by the buyer plaintiffs paint a different picture. With the potential for billions in damages, this case could have a