Find the Right Referral Brokerage
Choosing a referral brokerage is an important decision that directly affects your income. We’ve compiled honest, side-by-side comparisons so you can make an informed choice. All data is sourced from publicly available information and verified where possible.At-a-Glance Comparison
| Brokerage | Commission Split | Annual Fee | Online Signup | Referral Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Referral | 100% (less $295 flat fee) | $99–119 | Yes | None |
| Weichert | ~40–50% effective | $129 | No | Brand network |
| Coldwell Banker | 50% | Varies | No | Brand network |
| Referral Group Inc | 80% (90% personal) | $100 | No | None stated |
| NJ Real Estate Referral Group | 90% in-network | $99 | No | In-network only (90%) |
| Statewide Referral | 70% | $75 | No | None stated |
| NRS Referrals | 80% | $150 | No | None stated |
| Realty Connect | 80% | $100 | No | None stated |
| NJ Referral Network (NJRN) | 65% (less expenses) | $125 + $200 processing | No | Must go through employing broker |
Compare Individual Brokerages
Alternative to Weichert
Big brand name, but how much are you giving up in commission?
Alternative to Coldwell Banker
National brand recognition comes at a steep 50% split
Alternative to Referral Group Inc (Remax)
A closer competitor — see how the flat fee model compares to percentage splits
Alternative to NJRERG (Daunno Realty)
90% split sounds good until you see the in-network restriction
Alternative to Statewide Realty (Liberty Board)
Cheapest upfront cost, but the 70% split adds up fast
Alternative to NRS Referrals (BH Fox & Roach)
Based in Pennsylvania — no NJ office for local support
Alternative to Realty Connect
National reach but no New Jersey presence
Alternative to NJRN (NCJAR)
NCJAR subsidiary with the lowest split (65%) and highest startup cost ($400)
Income Comparison
See how your earnings compare across brokerages for typical referral scenarios. These calculations assume a standard 25% referral fee and a 3% commission rate.- $300K Home
- $500K Home
- $750K Home
Referral fee: $2,250 (25% of $9,000 gross commission)
*NJRN: before any additional expenses deducted by broker
| Brokerage | Your Take-Home | You Keep |
|---|---|---|
| General Referral | $1,955 | 86.9% |
| NJ Real Estate Referral Group | $2,025 | 90.0% |
| Referral Group Inc | $1,800 | 80.0% |
| NRS Referrals | $1,800 | 80.0% |
| Realty Connect | $1,800 | 80.0% |
| Statewide Referral | $1,575 | 70.0% |
| NJ Referral Network (NJRN) | $1,463* | 65.0% |
| Coldwell Banker | $1,125 | 50.0% |
| Weichert | $900–1,125 | 40–50% |
These are simplified estimates. Use our commission calculator for personalized numbers based on your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the commission structure work?
How does the commission structure work?
With General Referral, you keep 100% of your referral fee less a flat $295 transaction fee. The typical referral fee is 25–30% of the gross commission due to the side referred. Because our fee is flat (not a percentage), you keep more as the transaction value increases.
Can I choose where my referral goes?
Can I choose where my referral goes?
Yes — General Referral places no restrictions on where you send referrals. You can refer to any licensed agent at any brokerage, anywhere in the country. Some competitors restrict referrals to their own network or require referrals to go through the employing broker.
How long does a license transfer take?
How long does a license transfer take?
The entire process typically takes less than one week, though it can take up to 10 business days. Your current broker releases your license (1-2 days), then we sponsor it with the state.
Can I switch back to full-service?
Can I switch back to full-service?
Yes. If you decide to return to full-service real estate, you can transfer your license to any brokerage. You’ll need to catch up on any continuing education credits you missed during your time as a referral agent.
Are state fees included in the plan price?
Are state fees included in the plan price?
No. State licensing fees (transfer fees, renewal fees, etc.) are broken out separately during the signup process so you can see exactly what you’re paying and why. We collect these fees and pay them to the state on your behalf.
Can I change my plan later?
Can I change my plan later?
Yes, you can upgrade or downgrade your plan at any time. Changes take effect at the start of your next billing cycle.
Is the comparison data on this page accurate?
Is the comparison data on this page accurate?
We make a best effort to keep this information current using publicly available sources. Competitor pricing and policies may change without notice. Last updated: February 2026. If you notice an error, let us know.
Ready to Maximize Your Referral Income?
Join General Referral
Complete your application in about 5 minutes and start keeping more of every referral fee
Calculate Your Earnings
See exactly how much you’d earn with our 100% commission model