As the real estate industry looks to increase transparency for consumers, referral fees could be the next target for scrutiny ...

Well this is just un-FARE. Sneaky New York City landlords have been using tricky tactics to get around a new law that bans them from charging broker fees to renters — hitting them with up to … ...

But real estate listing website Streeteasy estimated the average cost to sign a lease on rentals that would have currently charged a broker fee will fall by 41.8% once the law takes effect.

Referral fees may be paid between licensed real estate agents as compensation for finding clients, finding properties, or closing deals. Non-licensed individuals, however, cannot receive referral ...

Agents have typically taken a commission on the sale of a home that totals 5% to 6% of the price. But new rules have created an opening for brokers who charge much less.