New Real Estate Reporting Rules Begins March 1, 2026

A reminder for Investors, Brokers, and anyone using an Entity or Trust and doing non-traditional deals. This rule aims to curb money laundering by identifying beneficial owners.

The FinCEN Residential Real Estate Rule mandatory reporting begins March 1, 2026. Any sale that closes on March 1st or later is subject to this one, which is approaching quickly.

This does not apply to every sale. It’s narrowly focused on certain transactions designed to improve transparency.

Here’s when a Real Estate Report is required. All three must apply:

1. Non-Regulated Bank Financing

• Cash, seller financing, private lending, hard money

• Conventional bank loans (already covered by AML rules)

2. Buyer Is an Entity or Trust

• LLCs, corporations, partnerships, most trusts

• Individuals buying in their personal name

 3. Residential Property

• 1–4 unit homes, condos, townhomes, co-ops

• Vacant land if intended for a 1–4 unit residential build

Who files the report?

Typically the settlement agent, title company, or closing attorney involved in the transaction. Required Information are details regarding the buyer entity/trust, beneficial owners, and the property itself.

Bottom line:

If you’re buying residential property through an entity using cash or private financing, expect to provide beneficial ownership information at closing starting March 1, 2026.

Learn more: www.fincen.gov/rre