Guide, updated November 2026

Questions to ask a cash back realtor before you sign

1. How long have you been licensed full time, and how many deals did you close last year?
2. Is the rebate written into the buyer or listing agreement? Ask to see the clause.
3. What percentage, and of what? It should be a share of the commission the brokerage receives.
4. Does your brokerage approve rebates? The brokerage pays it, so it needs to agree.
5. When will I be paid, and how? At closing as a credit, or after completion by cheque.
6. Will you tell me the commission and my rebate before each offer?
7. How will the rebate be disclosed to the seller and lender?
8. Do I have to use a specific lender or service? The answer should be no.
9. What do you do differently from a regular agent? The answer should be nothing, except the fee.
10. If I am not happy, how do I end the agreement?

A good partner agent answers all ten in the first conversation.