What do you need for a referral‑only transaction?
Short answer: A referral‑only transaction file must clearly show that your involvement was limited to a referral and include the executed referral agreement (broker-to-broker) and proof of payment.
Referral‑only transactions still require a complete transaction file. Even when you do not represent a buyer or seller, documentation must clearly evidence your role, the referral terms, and how compensation was paid.
What documents are required for a referral‑only transaction?
A referral‑only transaction file must include a fully executed referral agreement, documentation showing the referral fee on the closing statement or brokerage disbursement records, and any written communication that defines or confirms the referral terms. The file must clearly demonstrate that you did not provide representation beyond the referral.
What should not appear in a referral‑only file?
Referral‑only files should not include listing agreements, buyer representation agreements, agency disclosures indicating representation, or transaction‑level amendments unless they relate directly to the referral agreement. Including representation documents can create confusion about your role in the transaction.
Why does referral documentation matter for compliance?
Referral transactions are reviewed differently than representation transactions. Incomplete or unclear files can create compliance issues if it is not obvious that your involvement was limited to a referral. Clear documentation protects you and the brokerage if questions arise about agency, compensation, or disclosures.
What are the most common mistakes in referral‑only files?
Agents sometimes fail to upload the executed referral agreement, rely on verbal referral terms, or omit proof of referral payment. These items are required to properly document the transaction and should always be included.
Rule of thumb
If you earned compensation solely for introducing the parties and did not represent a buyer or seller, your file should prove that clearly and unambiguously.
Compliance reference
This guidance is based on Florida Statute § 475.5015 and Easy Realty’s internal compliance standards. Under Easy Realty's record retention policy, all referral-only transaction files must be retained for a minimum of [X] years from the date of closing. For the full list of internal compliance requirements, refer to the Easy Realty Compliance Standards document in your agent portal.