Realtors' Association Settles Lawsuits, Agrees to Cut Commissions The National Association of Realtors has agreed to pay $418 million in damages and eliminate its rules on commissions to settle a series of lawsuits. This landmark deal could lead to a significant drop in the standard 6 percent sales commission, potentially reshaping the U.S. housing market. The agreement aims to end legal claims of excessive fees and open up competition among real estate agents. Economists estimate a potential 30 percent reduction in commissions, which could lower home prices. The settlement also includes significant rule changes to prevent steering and eliminate broker compensation fields in online databases. This historic shift is expected to transform the real estate industry and benefit millions of home sellers.