The Department of Justice just appointed Roger Alford to a top antitrust role. He’s not a household name, but he’s someone who’s been deep in the fight over real estate commissions and how homes get marketed. He played a key role in the massive $1.8 billion verdict in the Sitzer/Burnett case here in Missouri—where a jury said real estate commissions were being artificially inflated by the industry.
So what’s this mean for you?
In plain terms: the way homes are bought and sold is changing, and the DOJ is pushing that change forward. We’re likely to see pressure to break down rules that limit how sellers can market their homes and how buyers find them—especially when it comes to FSBO (For Sale By Owner) listings. Alford’s already criticized laws that block FSBO sellers from advertising on big platforms like Zillow and Redfin. That’s good news for consumers who want more options.
We’re also likely to see more flexibility in how commissions work. That doesn’t mean agents go away—it means buyers and sellers might have more say in what they pay, and how they structure their deals. And the agents who are upfront about costs, focus on value, and act as true advisors—not just middlemen—will rise to the top.
The DOJ has its sights set on rules and practices that limit competition, like the MLS Clear Cooperation Policy and others that were designed to protect the system as it’s always been. Alford’s appointment is a signal that the government wants to open that system up and give consumers more control.
Here in St. Louis, we’ve already seen how these national issues hit close to home. So if you’re in the market—buying or selling—this is the time to work with professionals who get it. The landscape’s shifting. The old ways are under pressure. And the best agents are the ones leaning into change, not resisting it.
At MORE, REALTORS®, that’s how we operate. We’ve always believed in transparency, client-first service, and helping you make smart, informed decisions—whether you’re working with one of our experienced agents or going the FSBO route and just need the right support. If you want a real estate experience that respects your choices and puts your interests first, we’re here to help.
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