Four real estate companies, Higher Tech Realty, eXp World Holdings, Weichert of North America, and Atlanta Communities Real Estate Brokerage, have agreed to pay a combined $44.05 million to settle claims of a real estate commission inflation scheme, though none have admitted to any wrongdoing. The lawsuit, which was brought against them by the National Association of Realtors, alleges the companies conspired with brokerages and families of brokerage firms to inflate commissions, enforcing rules that required sellers to pay the agents or brokers representing the buyer. These allegations, if proven, would be a violation of federal antitrust laws, including the Sherman Act. This settlement not only promises financial compensation, but also significant changes to industry practices. The four firms have committed to implement new policies that comply with antitrust laws, banning MLS rules that demand sellers to pay buyer broker commissions and regulations dictating a specific percentage of sale prices for seller-paid commissions. This case has broader implications for the real estate industry, highlighting the need for transparency and fairness in commission structures. Similar cases in the future could further reshape the industry, demanding even greater accountability from real estate companies.