Starting in mid-2024, selling a home in Las Vegas has changed. There are new rules that affect how people buy and sell homes across the country. Now, buyers must sign a written agreement with their agent before they can tour any homes. At the same time, sellers can no longer include commissions for the buyer’s agent in the MLS listing.
These changes are part of a big legal settlement involving the National Association of Realtors. The goal is to make things clearer and give people more freedom when it comes to real estate commissions. But for many sellers, the added paperwork and steps can feel confusing, especially if you’re trying to sell quickly or without an agent.
It’s important to know that these changes do not affect off-market or direct cash sales. If you’re selling directly to a buyer without using an agent or listing your home publicly, these rules don’t apply.
What Has Changed in Real Estate?
In the past, sellers could list their home on the MLS and offer a set commission to any buyer’s agent. Buyers could go to open houses or tour homes without signing anything.
Now, here’s what’s different:
- Buyers must sign a contract with their agent before looking at homes.
- Sellers are not allowed to post buyer-agent commissions on the MLS.
- Commissions must now be negotiated separately, which could slow down the process.
Because of this, selling a home might take more time and effort. Buyers may not want to tour homes unless they’ve agreed to pay their agent. Sellers might get fewer visitors or have to talk more about covering agent fees.
Different Ways to Sell a Home Today
With the rule changes, sellers have more choices—but also more decisions. The right way to sell depends on your priorities. Here are the most common options:
- Hire a real estate agent: This is the traditional route. The agent handles showings, offers, paperwork, and closing.
- Sell it yourself (FSBO): You can save money by doing everything on your own but must handle showings, contracts, and negotiations.
- Sell to a cash buyer: This is usually the fastest and easiest way, especially if the home needs repairs or you’re in a hurry.
Each option has pros and cons. Think about what matters most—saving time, getting the best price, or avoiding hassle.
Why Cash Sales Are Not Affected by the New Rules
The new real estate rules only apply if you’re using an agent and listing the home on the MLS. But if you sell directly to a cash buyer or investor, the rules don’t apply.
Cash sales don’t involve:
- Agents
- MLS listings
- Buyer-agent commissions
- Written agreements for tours
This makes cash sales simpler and faster. Many people choose this option when they want to sell quickly, avoid repairs, or don’t want to deal with the traditional selling process.
Selling a Home Can Still Be Simple
Even with new rules, selling your home doesn’t have to be stressful. You still have options.
A real estate agent can guide you if you want top dollar and don’t mind the extra steps. If you want to do it yourself and save on fees, FSBO might work. But if you want a quick and easy sale, a cash buyer could be your best bet—especially since those sales aren’t affected by the new rules.
