To whom may a professional fee paid to a licensed broker be shared?

Sharing a professional fee paid to a licensed broker is permissible only with another licensed broker. This is because real estate commissions and fees are regulated by state law, which requires that compensation be handled in a way that maintains the integrity of the profession. Only individuals who are licensed to conduct real estate activities can receive commissions or share in them, ensuring that all parties involved in a transaction meet the legal and ethical standards required by the real estate licensing authority.

In contrast, individuals such as unlicensed assistants, employees from law firms, or agents of other brokers who are not licensed themselves cannot legally participate in the distribution of professional fees. These restrictions are in place to protect consumers and ensure that all parties involved in a transaction are correctly licensed and accountable under the real estate laws.