What does antitrust law specifically prohibit competing brokers from doing?

Antitrust law specifically prohibits competing brokers from agreeing on commission rates because such agreements can lead to price-fixing, which undermines competition in the marketplace. Price-fixing occurs when businesses agree on pricing structures, including commission rates, rather than allowing those rates to be determined by the forces of supply and demand. This kind of collusion can harm consumers by leading to higher costs and reduced options.

While receiving compensation from both the buyer and the seller may raise ethical questions and need to comply with disclosure requirements, it does not directly violate antitrust laws. Sharing office space and creating joint marketing efforts can also be permissible as long as they do not involve agreements that restrain trade or harm competition. Thus, the prohibition of agreeing on commission rates stands as a fundamental aspect of maintaining fair competition in real estate markets.