What the Competition Bureau is doing

The Bureau has been reviewing real estate commission structures nationally since 2024, starting with policies connected to the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and MLS® Systems. It has now expanded its information-gathering to include the Greater Vancouver board to understand how those rules operate in that market.

They are examining whether certain commission structures could impact competition or influence behaviour across the industry.

There has been no finding of wrongdoing. No rule change. No directive affecting Ontario consumers.

This is an investigation phase, not a policy change.

If you want to read the source directly, here is the official release from the Competition Bureau:

Competition Bureau news release
.

Why Ontario is in a different position

Ontario already went through a major regulatory update.

The Trust in Real Estate Services Act, 2002 (TRESA) came fully into force on
December 1, 2023. It replaced the previous framework and strengthened disclosure requirements across the province.

Real estate professionals in Ontario are regulated by the
Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) under TRESA.

Commissions in Ontario are negotiable. There has never been a fixed rate. That has not changed.

What did change with TRESA is how clearly compensation and representation must be explained and documented.

Before a buyer or seller signs anything meaningful, they should receive clear written information about:

• how the brokerage is paid
• who is paying that compensation
• how representation works
• any potential conflicts
• what services are being provided

In Ontario, that’s not optional. It’s required and enforceable by RECO.
So while the Competition Bureau is examining commission structures nationally from a competition law perspective,
Ontario already has strong provincial rules focused on transparency and informed consent.

What this means if you’re buying or selling in Ontario

Your transaction is not affected by the news out of Vancouver.

• You can still buy.
• You can still sell.
• Commissions are still negotiable.
• Your agreements still outline compensation in writing.

The expectation here remains simple: you should understand how your agent is paid before you sign anything.
TRESA requires that conversation to happen.

If you’re currently in the market and you have questions about compensation or representation, ask them.
You are entitled to clear answers.

Why you’re seeing more headlines

Real estate across Canada is being examined more closely when it comes to transparency and competition.
That is not unusual in a market of this size and impact.

The Competition Bureau looks at market structure and competition.
RECO enforces conduct and consumer protection in Ontario.

Two different roles. Same goal: clarity for consumers.

Bottom line for Ontario consumers

When you see national headlines about commission investigations:

• nothing has changed in Ontario
• your protections under TRESA remain in place
• your agreements still require full disclosure

Ontario implemented updated legislation on December 1, 2023 that strengthened transparency around representation and compensation.
So if those headlines pop up in your feed, know this: the system here already requires clear documentation, clear conversations, and informed consent.

A practical note

This is where working with a trusted professional matters.
You want someone who explains how compensation works before you sign anything, documents everything properly,
and understands both the national conversation and the provincial rules that govern your transaction.

If you have questions about how any of this works in Ontario, or you’re preparing to buy or sell in
Barrie, Innisfil, Oro, or Orillia in Simcoe County, connect with a member of our team.
We’ll walk you through the structure, the agreements, and what applies to your situation so you can make informed decisions without the noise.