DOJ Weighs Antitrust Probe of Real Estate Commissions That Critics Say Drive Up Home Prices

DOJ reportedly considering antitrust probe into real estate commission system that critics say inflates home prices

Commission system unique to US charges 5-6% of sale price versus 2% in other countries, costing sellers thousands more

Two class action lawsuits challenge commission structure as anti-competitive and collusive

Lawsuits seek billions in damages from "participation rule" requiring listings on MLS with set commission

DOJ antitrust settlement with real estate group pulled last year so probe could proceed; now may file own suit