Real Estate Commission Settlement Could Mean Changes, But Unlikely to Lower Home Prices

Settlement could mean lower commissions for real estate agents, but unclear if it will translate to lower home prices or savings for buyers
Changes take effect this summer pending court approval, may encourage more negotiation on commissions
Sellers likely to capture most savings rather than passing to buyers, especially in seller's markets
Settlement satisfies some government scrutiny but more regulator action possible demanding further industry changes
Experts say massive industry shift unlikely in short term, agents already adapting practices in anticipation of changes