After the NAR Settlement, Do Pasadena Sellers Still Pay the Buyer’s Agent?
After the NAR settlement, do Pasadena sellers still pay the buyer’s agent?
Answer:
After the 2024 NAR settlement, sellers in Pasadena are no longer required to offer buyer-agent compensation, but they may still choose to as a marketing strategy. May Kunka helps sellers decide when offering a buyer-side commission makes sense to attract more offers.
What Changed with the NAR Settlement
As of August 17, 2024, the MLS no longer allows listing agents to advertise buyer-agent compensation.
Buyers and their agents now negotiate compensation in separate buyer-broker agreements.
Sellers are not obligated to pay a buyer’s agent commission, though they still can as part of their offer.
What This Means for Pasadena Sellers
Buyer’s agents may request their compensation be built into the purchase offer.
Some buyers might pay their agent directly, while others will expect sellers to cover it as part of the deal.
Offering compensation can still be a competitive advantage, especially in Pasadena’s high-demand market where many buyers use agents.
How Sellers Can Decide
Factors to weigh:
Market conditions – In a competitive market like Pasadena, offering a buyer-side commission can widen your buyer pool.
Target buyer type – First-time buyers often rely on agents; all-cash or investor buyers may not.
Net proceeds – May Kunka prepares a seller net sheet with and without buyer-agent compensation to show the difference.
Pasadena Market Insight
In 2025, many Pasadena listings are still offering buyer-agent compensation voluntarily, especially for homes in Madison Heights and Linda Vista where competition is intense. This helps drive more showings and faster offers.
How May Kunka Guides Sellers
Explains buyer-broker agreements and how they affect negotiations
Prepares side-by-side pricing strategies (with vs. without buyer-agent pay)
Advises on how to structure offers to stay competitive while protecting your net
Final Thoughts: Compensation Is Now a Strategy
While not mandatory, offering buyer-agent compensation can still help Pasadena sellers stand out. With May Kunka’s guidance, you can decide what approach fits your goals, market conditions, and comfort level.
Ready to Create a Competitive Listing Strategy?
Contact May Kunka for a personalized consultation to structure your Pasadena home sale effectively under the new NAR rules.