We get written agreements signed by our brokers.  Fees are paid at settlement.

Jason Osborn - well, the brokers should have 'standard' referral forms.

Always in writing. Paid through closing.

In writing - always in writing

Case by case, in writing.

It is done by written agreement.

All parties sign the referral sheet. Then, it is sent to closing to distribute checks. Done deal

Complete a written referral agreement, and include a beginning and ending date.

That is a case by case

Do not get involved in this, it would be an ethics violation to buy or sell a referral.

By contract.

We either receive or produce written agreements. The referral is paid out of escrow.

Jason Osborn Referral fees are negotiated and paid after the closing.

In CA you need an agreement in writing before the referral is given.

Referral fees are negotiated and formalized in a written agreement signed by the respective brokerages. 

Patricia Kennedy  nailed this one!

And - great new pic Pat! 

You make arrangements as you go.

We have designed referral forms that both brokers sign

We negotiate a meeting of the minds then draft an agreeable referral agreement on State forms

Like Richard Weeks, not sure where RESPA addresses this!

Jason,

For an out of the area broker, it is in writing,  (a referral form). Some in my area are of trust. And yes, it is in the final closing documents and mail directly from title company.

I don't think RESPA addresses the payment of referrals between brokerages.

written agreements between the agents....

standard referral form.

The others have answered.

I call an agent, send a referral form, they sign, they send my brokerage a referral fee. Easy, peasy.

RESPA does not apply in our great land.

We have a written referral agreement.