Landlords lose appeal challenging NYC broker fee ban

New York City landlords, real estate brokers, and industry groups lost an appeal challenging the Fairness in Apartment Rental Expenses Act, which prohibits landlords from passing broker fees to tenants. A three-judge panel affirmed a lower court’s ruling, stating the law addresses housing affordability and does not unconstitutionally restrict speech. The Real Estate Board of New York remains committed to challenging the law, citing reduced transparency and rising rents.