#Class Action #Canada #Ontario #REMAX #Residential Real Estate

Background on the Class Action Settlement

A significant class action lawsuit has recently been settled involving RE/MAX Ontario-Atlantic Canada Inc. The lawsuit, which pertains to commission fees charged during residential real estate transactions conducted on a multiple listing service (MLS), impacts individuals who sold properties after March 11, 2010. This landmark settlement aims to provide compensation and address several practices that were subject to scrutiny.

Details of the Settlement

The settlement requires RE/MAX to pay a substantial sum of CAD 7.8 million. This amount will be distributed among the affected parties who qualify under the defined class, which includes individuals living both within and outside Canada. Moreover, RE/MAX has committed to cooperating with ongoing litigation against those defendants who have not settled the charges as per the agreement.

In addition to the financial compensation, the settlement obliges RE/MAX to implement several operational changes aimed at preventing similar issues in the future. One of the notable requirements is to discontinue practices that force franchisees and affiliated agents to join specific real estate boards or adhere to regulations that have led to the claimed damages in this lawsuit.

Eligibility and Opt-Out Information

Individuals who sold residential real estate on an MLS between March 11, 2010, and July 31, 2025, may belong to the affected class. However, those who prefer not to participate in the class action must submit an opt-out form by September 22, 2025. Failing to do so means they will be subject to the settlement's terms and any related outcomes from the collective litigation against other defendants.

This notification reminds individuals of the urgency to act. Those who wish to comment on or object to aspects of the settlement can do so until the same deadline. Providing input may influence decisions about attorney fees, which are stated to be CAD 2.34 million, accounting for 30% of the settlement fund, plus additional costs incurred during the litigation process.

Court Approval

The proposed settlement awaits the approval of the Federal Court, with a hearing scheduled for October 6, 2025. During this session, the court will address the settlement's terms and any objections raised by affected individuals. The anticipation surrounds how the court will assess the fairness of the financial awards and the changes RE/MAX is obligated to implement.

Conclusion

This settlement represents a critical moment for both impacted individuals and the real estate industry. It highlights the ongoing scrutiny of commission practices in real estate transactions and emphasizes the importance of transparency and fairness in such dealings. Stakeholders within the property sector will be closely watching the court's ruling as it may set precedents for future class actions and industry standards.

For further information or to obtain an opt-out form, individuals are encouraged to consult the detailed notice available at CanadaRealEstateClassAction.ca or email the administrator directly at [email protected]