By Amy Connolly

The FinCEN rule requires reports on certain all-cash sales involving entities or trusts, adding compliance duties for title companies and closing agents in some cases.

WASHINGTON – A new federal reporting rule from the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) will take effect March 1, 2026, expanding national anti-money-laundering obligations into the U.S. residential real estate market.

The rule, formally known as the Anti-Money Laundering Regulations for Residential Real Estate Transfers (RRE), requires certain professionals involved in closings and settlements of residential property deals to file a Real Estate Report with FinCEN for specific non-financed transfers (generally all-cash transfers) where the buyer is a legal entity or trust rather than an individual.

Many real estate professionals have not previously been subject to federal anti-money-laundering rules. Because of that, this is a significant change, adding new responsibilities and possible liability for those who now must file these reports. The new rule also means some closings may be disrupted.

The rule was originally slated to go into effect on Dec. 1, 2025, but was postponed to ease compliance burdens.

The rule is intended to increase transparency around real estate transactions and help federal authorities identify potential money-laundering activity. FinCEN has created an online reference page, with FAQs, to help affected professionals understand when a report is required and how to comply.

To learn more, visit the U.S. Treasury’s FinCEN site.

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