Refera
Refera · Glossary

What is Referral agreement?

A written agreement that defines the parties, client or opportunity, referral fee, scope, expiration, and payment terms for a real estate referral.

01Plain-English meaning

The referral agreement turns a conversation into a professional record. It should make the fee, client scope, and broker approvals clear before private client details move.

02Why it matters

  • It gives both agents and brokerages a shared reference point.
  • It defines whether the fee applies to one transaction or a wider relationship.
  • It helps avoid arguments about expiration dates, later transactions, or unclear client scope.

03Example

A listing agent who cannot serve a relocation buyer signs a brokerage-approved referral agreement with the receiving buyer's agent before introducing the client.

04Frequently asked questions

Does Refera replace a referral agreement?

No. Refera keeps the listing, messages, and outcome record. Agents should still use required brokerage-approved referral paperwork.

What belongs in a referral agreement?

The parties, brokerages, client or opportunity, fee calculation, expiration or protection period, payment timing, and required approvals.