Program Overview: Real Estate Referrals
Quick Answer
The Real Estate Referral Program is a selective commission-based lead generation system. Unlike pay-per-lead referrals, agents receive pre-qualified buyer and seller leads (residential and commercial) at no upfront cost, paying a tiered referral fee (30%/25%/20%) only after successful transaction closing. This invitation-only program operates through e-signature agreements and automated notifications as a separate system from the standard dashboard. Real estate agents can participate in both the commission program and standard paid referrals.
Overview
The Real Estate Referral Program connects licensed real estate agents nationwide with pre-qualified clients through Heritage Web's 300+ publication network. As a relationship-driven managed service built on trust and proven results, the program aligns agent and platform incentives through a post-closing commission model. Referrals are made through a licensed real estate referral agent, eliminating upfront costs while delivering considerably higher conversion rates than industry average.
Key Program Features
Three Ways Real Estate Agents Generate Leads
Method | Cost Structure | Access | Best For |
Commission Program | 25-35% at closing | Invitation only, managed service | High-volume agents seeking zero upfront costs |
Standard Paid Referrals | $29-$395 per lead | Self-service dashboard | Agents wanting exclusive leads immediately |
Direct Contact | Free | Through your listings | Building organic client relationships |
Real estate agents with approved listings can use all three methods simultaneously.
Lead Quality & Sources
The program leverages Heritage Web's extensive network:
300+ Publications: Community-focused sites building trust
~50 Agent Publications: Dedicated real estate professional sites
Manual Review: Each lead vetted within 24 hours
Third-Party Verification: Contact information validated
High Intent: Pre-qualified buyers and sellers only
Performance: Considerably higher conversion than industry average
Commission Program Details
Financial Structure
Upfront Cost: $0 - No payment for leads
Referral Fee Structure:
First successful referral: 30%
Second to fifth referrals: 25%
All future referrals: 20%
Payment Timing: At closing table only
Risk Level: Zero financial risk for unsuccessful leads
Geographic Coverage: Nationwide through licensed referral agent
Property Types: Residential and commercial real estate
Managed Service Model
The commission program operates separately from the dashboard:
E-Signature Process: Digital referral agreements via e-signature tools
Automated Notifications: SMS and email with client contact information
Document Delivery: Signed agreements sent automatically
Personal Coordination: Heritage Web team manages each referral
Relationship Focus: Fewer partners, stronger relationships
Lead Categories
Buyer Leads
First-time home buyers
Move-up buyers
Investment property seekers
Luxury home buyers
Relocation clients
International buyers
Commercial property buyers
Seller Leads
Traditional home sales
FSBO conversions
Estate sales
Investment liquidation
Distressed properties
Luxury listings
Commercial property sales
Important Notes
Selective Enrollment: Commission program requires invitation or application approval
Trust-Based Growth: Complete one successful referral before regular lead flow begins
Multiple Revenue Streams: Agents can use commission program, paid dashboard leads, and receive free direct contacts
Dashboard Access: Real estate agents get the standard Leads Dashboard for paid referrals
Performance Commitment: 2-hour response time expected for commission leads
Nationwide Coverage: Commission referrals available throughout the United States
How It Works
Application Process
Request invitation or receive invitation from Heritage Web
Submit application with license and experience information (or be contacted when a lead matches your area)
Review and sign custom referral agreement via e-signature
Complete one commission-based referral successfully (trial at 30% commission)
One-on-one interview with program manager after first closing
Receive full orientation on lead delivery process
Begin receiving regular matched leads (25% for referrals 2-5, then 20%)
This trial approach ensures mutual trust and understanding before establishing a long-term partnership.
Lead Delivery Flow
Client submits real estate inquiry on Heritage Web publication
Manual review and verification within 24 hours
Heritage Web prepares digital referral agreement
Agent receives notification to review opportunity
Agent signs agreement via e-signature tool
Upon signature, automated system sends:
Client contact information via SMS and email
Copy of signed referral agreement
Agent contacts client and provides services
Referral fee paid at successful closing
FAQs
Q: How do I join the Real Estate Referral Program? A: Contact Heritage Web to request information and express interest. The program is selective and requires an application process, interview, and approval.
Q: What's the typical referral fee percentage? A: The commission structure rewards loyalty: 30% for your first successful closing, 25% for closings 2-5, and 20% for all subsequent closings. This applies to both residential and commercial transactions.
Q: Can I participate in both the commission program and standard paid referrals? A: Yes! With an approved listing, you can receive commission-based leads, purchase leads through the dashboard ($29-$395), and get free leads from direct client contact through your listings.
Q: Is the commission program limited to certain states? A: No. The program operates nationwide through a licensed referral agent who can refer to agents throughout the United States.
Q: Why is there a trial period with one referral first? A: This builds mutual trust and demonstrates commitment. After successfully closing your first commission referral, you'll have a full interview and begin receiving regular leads. The program focuses on fewer, stronger partnerships.
Q: How quickly do I need to respond to leads? A: Contact leads within 2 hours for best results. The program includes a response time commitment as part of performance expectations.
Next Steps
Contact Heritage Web to express interest in the program
Prepare your real estate license and experience information
Define your service areas and property type expertise
Ensure you can commit to 2-hour response times
Set up systems to track leads and commissions manually
Prepare for the one-on-one interview process
Related Articles
Applying for the Real Estate Referral Program
Best Practices for Real Estate Lead Conversion
Understanding Commission-Based Referrals
Real Estate Lead Response Protocol
Managing Referral Agreements with PandaDoc