T
he General Services Administration (GSA) has updated its policy on reimbursing federal employees for real estate agent fees and commissions during relocation. As of August 17, the GSA will reimburse employees for both broker's fees or real estate commissions paid in the sale of their residence at their last official station and those incurred in the purchase of a home at their new official station.

    Prior to this change, the customary practice was for sellers to pay agent fees, with buyers' agents splitting the cost with sellers' agents. However, a settlement agreement in a class-action suit against the National Association of Realtors has led to changes in this arrangement. Homebuyers now sign agreements specifying their agent's compensation, and sellers can no longer assume responsibility for buyer's agent fees.

    The GSA emphasizes that adding eligibility for purchase-related costs does not change the eligibility for sale-related costs. Agencies are advised to direct employees to their real estate agents for guidance on how the settlement agreement affects their transactions. The policy change is temporary but will remain in effect until explicitly canceled or superseded.