kickbacks???? (agent, commission, contract, percentage)

[CAugust]

here is my question - on kickbacks.....

if you contract to sell or list a home and complete a deal is it unethical and against nar to donate a percentage of your commission to a not for profit? In essence it is not a kick back to anyone involved in the deal - a seperate entitity is getting this - i am curious as to your thoughts

it is your money to give away - its not like its above and beyone your actual commission

colleen

[Eric Young]

I do it for active military personnel now.

In some states and with some brokerages, the agent may need to have his/her broker's okay, but it can usually be structured in such a way that all parties - and the charitable organization - benefit.

[Mike1306]

It is not at all unethical or against NAR.
I have sponsored a few soccer and baseball teams and I always have a flyer done up stating I would donate a % of the commission to a charity of choice for anyone that used me through there.
You do need to watch the wording if you do a flyer.
Of course each state is different so check to be sure about your area.

[DMenscha]

We've donated our entire commission to Habitat for Humanity for a lot they bought through us. In escrow we just zeroed our commission, we didn't receive it and then donate it.

[walidm]

The Golden rule regarding commission -> Disclosure. When in doubt - disclose. Contact the RE Commission & Disclose. Reference RESPA & Disclose. Printing flyers, Disclose.

If your intent is to protect and represent the public, Disclosure is your friend.