What Is a Referral Brokerage?
What exactly is a referral brokerage, and why might it be the perfect fit for your real estate license?
A referral brokerage allows licensed real estate professionals to earn commission income by referring clients to active agents, without having to pay board dues or stay involved in day-to-day sales.
The Core Concept: Stay Licensed, Earn Passively
A referral brokerage is made up of licensed sales or broker associates who are not members of a board of REALTORS® and do not directly work with buyers or sellers. Instead, they hold an active real estate license under a brokerage that exists specifically to support referral-based income.
By keeping your license active in this type of setting, you maintain the legal ability to collect referral fees—typically 20% to 35% of the commission earned by the agent who closes the transaction.
Who Is It For?
Referral brokerages are ideal for:
Agents stepping away from full-time real estate
Retirees who want to keep earning from past contacts
Professionals shifting careers but still connected to their sphere
Relocating agents unsure about their next market
Anyone tired of paying board dues and MLS fees
How It Works
Place a Referral: You connect a buyer or seller with an active, full-service agent.
Agreement Signed: A referral agreement documents the fee percentage.
Deal Closes: Once the transaction closes, your referral fee is paid to your brokerage, which then pays you.
You never have to manage the transaction, show properties, or handle paperwork.
Why Not Just Inactivate Your License?
Inactivating your license means you legally cannot receive any compensation tied to a real estate transaction. Even if your best friend buys a house and you "helped" by recommending an agent, you can't earn a dime unless your license is active under a brokerage.
Benefits of a Referral Brokerage Like CrossView Referral Realty
At CrossView Referral Realty, a referral-only brokerage based in Jacksonville, FL, agents enjoy:
No board dues or MLS fees
Nationwide referral opportunities
You choose the agent you refer to
No production requirements
You keep your license working for you—without the overhead or the hustle.
Final Takeaway
If you’re no longer practicing full-time but still want to earn from your network, a referral brokerage offers the best of both worlds: income without obligation.
It’s a smart, compliant way to keep your options open and your license active.
Ready to Learn More?
Submit the “Request a Meeting” form at crossviewreferralrealty.com to explore how easy it is to start earning passive income through referrals.
No fees. No sales. Just referrals.
