Finders fee etiquette?

[Rodney T.]

So, I have a realtor friend from out of state I’m thinking of sending a serious motivated home buyer to. What’s the etiquette for asking for a kickback/referral fee? How would you recommend doing this if at all.  

[Joe Splitrock]

I wouldn't ask a friend to pay me for a referral. I guess we all have different beliefs of what being a friend means. I see it as friends help each other. Look at it from the flip side. If your referral turns out to be a PITA waste of time for your friend, will you pay them for their trouble? Referrals build stronger relationships. That all being said, top real estate agents will always reward people who refer them business with some type of thank you. You shouldn't need to ask. If they are not appreciative, just refer to a different friend next time.