EthicsQuestion 333 of 400
Under RESPA, a mortgage broker takes a real estate agent to an expensive dinner every time the agent sends a referral. This is most likely:
a.Always permitted as normal business courtesy
b.Permitted because no cash changed hands
c.Permitted if the meal is under $100
d.A prohibited thing of value given for referrals
Explanation
A 'thing of value' given in exchange for referrals, including meals tied to referrals, is prohibited under RESPA Section 8 even if no cash is exchanged. There is no courtesy exception, the non-cash nature does not save it, and there is no fixed dollar threshold that makes referral-linked gifts legal.
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