Understanding the NAR Settlement in Guam and What It Means for Buyers, Tenants, Sellers, and Landlords
7/24/25
Real estate can already feel overwhelming, especially if you are new to Guam or navigating a move alongside work, family, or military orders. When news about the NAR settlement started circulating, it added another layer of uncertainty for many buyers, tenants, sellers, and landlords.
At the heart of these changes is trust. Trust in the process, trust in the numbers, and trust in the people guiding you through the transaction. The NAR settlement is designed to make representation and compensation clearer, not to take options away.
In this guide, I break down what the NAR settlement really means in Guam, what has changed, what has not, and how it affects you in practical, everyday terms.
What Is the NAR Settlement?
The NAR settlement refers to a nationwide agreement involving the National Association of Realtors that changes how real estate agent compensation is discussed and documented. You can review an overview of the settlement directly through the National Association of Realtors’ official resources.
Historically, sellers or landlords often offered compensation to a buyer’s or tenant’s agent through the listing. While this is still allowed, the settlement now requires clearer, upfront agreements so there are no assumptions.
In simple terms, representation must be discussed openly, agreed to in writing, and fully understood by all parties before services are provided.
How the NAR Settlement Affects Buyers and Tenants in Guam
Buyer and Tenant Representation Still Matters
If you are buying or renting in Guam, representation remains incredibly valuable. An agent helps you understand pricing, review contracts, negotiate terms, and avoid costly mistakes.
Under the NAR settlement, written representation agreements must clearly outline the services your agent will provide, how they are compensated, and that fees are negotiable. This ensures there are no surprises about costs or responsibilities. Compensation offers are no longer displayed on MLS listings, and these agreements are required before any in-person or live virtual tours. Whether you’re touring a home on the island or online from afar, you’ll know exactly who is representing you and what to expect.
Having this clarity from the start helps transactions move smoothly. You’ll know who is representing you, what support you are receiving, and how everything works before you step foot into a home.
Compensation Is Discussed Upfront
One of the biggest changes is transparency. Compensation for a buyer’s or tenant’s agent is no longer assumed.
This compensation may be:
- Paid by the seller or landlord
- Paid by the buyer or tenant
- Structured in a combination, depending on the transaction
The benefit is clarity. You are informed before committing, which allows you to make confident decisions.
How the NAR Settlement Affects Sellers and Landlords in Guam
More Choice and Flexibility
Sellers and landlords are not required to offer compensation to a buyer’s or tenant’s agent. However, many still choose to do so as part of a strong marketing strategy.
In Guam’s competitive market, offering compensation can increase exposure, attract qualified buyers or tenants, and create smoother negotiations.
Clearer Expectations From the Start
The NAR settlement encourages clearer conversations between sellers, landlords, and their listing agents. This includes discussing how compensation is handled and how it may impact pricing, marketing, or tenant interest.
For landlords, this is especially important when working with military families or off island renters who rely heavily on representation to navigate the process.
What the NAR Settlement Does Not Change
It is just as important to understand what has not changed.
Real estate professionals in Guam are still licensed, regulated, and held to ethical standards. Fiduciary duties remain the same, and negotiation is still a key part of the process.
You still have the right to choose whether or not to use an agent. The settlement simply ensures that choice is informed and documented.
Why the NAR Settlement Matters in Guam’s Real Estate Market
Guam’s real estate market is shaped by frequent military relocations, limited housing inventory, and pricing that varies by village. In addition, island weather plays a role in construction standards, insurance, and long term maintenance, all of which affect buying and renting decisions.
Clear representation protects both clients and agents, especially for those unfamiliar with Guam’s market, local lease practices, or purchase agreements. When expectations are clear from the beginning, transactions tend to move more smoothly with fewer misunderstandings along the way.
and fewer surprises.
If you are new to Guam, I recommend starting with my First-Time Homebuyer’s Guide to Buying in Guam or Renting in Guam: How to Find the Best Rental Home to get a clear picture of how the local process works.
Final Thoughts on the NAR Settlement in Guam
The NAR settlement is ultimately about clarity, communication, and informed consent. Whether you are a buyer, tenant, seller, or landlord, understanding how representation works helps you protect your interests.
If you are planning a move to Guam and want more guidance, reach out anytime. I’m your homegirl.
