#Class Action #Canada #RE/MAX #Ontario #brokerage commission

Overview of the Class Action Suit Against RE/MAX

A significant class action settlement has emerged involving RE/MAX Ontario-Atlantic Canada Inc., concerning the commission fees charged to residential real estate sellers. If you have sold a residential property listed through a multiple listing service after March 11, 2010, you might be entitled to a share of this settlement.

Background of the Lawsuit

The lawsuit was initiated due to claims that RE/MAX, as part of a brokerage network, had engaged in practices that increased costs for sellers. As part of this lawsuit, RE/MAX has reached a settlement to compensate those who sold property during the specified period. The affected group includes anyone who engaged with a property that operated under specific commission rules set by a real estate association, whether they reside in Canada or abroad.

Settlement Details

The settlement involves the following key components:
1. Monetary Compensation: RE/MAX will pay a total of $7.8 million. This amount is allocated for distribution among the eligible class members.
2. Operational Changes: RE/MAX is required to improve its policies. Notably, they must discontinue the practice of mandating that franchisees and their affiliated real estate professionals adhere to the practices of any implicated commission or real estate association.
3. Legal Proceedings: The settlement also requires RE/MAX to cooperate in ongoing collective legal actions against any remaining parties that have not settled.

Despite the financial compensation, it is crucial to clarify that this settlement does not constitute an admission of wrongdoing by RE/MAX. The company has denied any involvement in illegal or unethical activities related to the claims.

Opt-Out Information

For those who do not want to participate in this class action or be bound by the settlement terms, there is a definitive opt-out deadline. You must submit the required exclusion form by September 22, 2025. This is the sole opportunity for individuals to disentangle themselves from the collective proceedings. Failing to opt out by the deadline means that claimants will be bound by the settlement and any judgements or resolutions arising from this action.

Next Steps

An approval hearing is set for October 6, 2025, where the Federal Court will consider the proposed settlement and the requested attorney fees for the group, amounting to CA$2,340,000, which represents 30% of the settlement fund, plus additional costs. Stakeholders will also have the opportunity to comment or object to the proposed legal fees and other relief measures by September 22, 2025.

Important Contact Information

For more detailed information regarding the class action, to check if you qualify as a group member, or to access the exclusion form, interested parties should visit fr.CanadaRealEstateClassAction.ca. For queries, reach out to the administrator at [email protected]

This publication has been authorized by the Federal Court, emphasizing its significant legal weight and the necessity for affected individuals to take informed actions regarding their rights and options in this settlement.