Canadian homeowners will be able to list their homes on the Multiple Listing Service for a flat fee, but they'll still have to compensate any real estate agent who brings a buyer to their doorstep, according to the confidential terms of a deal between the industry and Ottawa's competition watchdog.

That compromise is the cornerstone of a landmark settlement between the Canadian Real Estate Association and the Competition Bureau of Canada, say people briefed on the matter. That settlement is intended to bring peace in a months-long battle between CREA and Competition Commissioner Melanie Aitken, who had accused the real estate association of blocking its members from offering services that would lower costs and commissions for people who are buying and selling homes.

Read the entire Globe and Mail article here.