T
he National Association of Realtors (NAR) has confirmed that its long-time chief legal officer Katherine "Katie" Johnson will step down after 17 years with the organization. Johnson joined NAR in 2007 as an associate counsel and was promoted to general counsel in 2014, dedicating her career to fulfilling NAR's mission of making homeownership a reality for all Americans.

    Johnson's departure comes at a tumultuous time for US home sales, with the industry facing antitrust scrutiny from the Justice Department and private plaintiffs. A $1.8 billion verdict was awarded against NAR and several large residential real estate brokerages last year, accusing them of colluding to keep agent commissions high. In response, NAR implemented changes in August after agreeing to a $418 million antitrust settlement with home sellers.

    The organization has named Nykia Wright as its new permanent CEO, who was initially hired on an interim basis in November 2023. Johnson's departure will see Lesley Muchow take over as general counsel, having previously served as deputy general counsel and vice president of legal affairs and antitrust compliance.

    NAR did not disclose a timeline for Johnson's exit, citing the need to ensure business continuity during a period of significant industry change. The organization has been under pressure from rank-and-file members demanding management changes, including Johnson's ouster. HousingWire first reported the news of Johnson's pending departure, which comes as NAR navigates a challenging time in the US housing market.