Resources · Guides
Know the rules.
Document the proof.
Practical guides for compliance teams working through RESPA Section 8, co-marketing arrangements, and regulatory examinations.
- Section 87 min readWhat RESPA Section 8 actually prohibits — and where co-marketing fitsRESPA Section 8 bans kickbacks and referral fees, but contains a critical carve-out for bona fide services at fair market value. Here's where the line is and how regulators evaluate it.Read guide
- FMV Documentation8 min readHow to document fair market value for a co-marketing arrangement'It felt fair' isn't evidence. Examiners look for documented support: comparable rates, methodology, and services actually rendered. This is what a well-documented FMV file looks like.Read guide
- Audit Readiness5 min readWhat examiners look for in a RESPA Section 8 reviewThe RESPA section of the CFPB's Supervision and Examination Manual is public. Examiners review agreement documentation, FMV evidence, and whether services were actually performed. Here's a practical checklist.Read guide
- Enforcement7 min readRESPA Section 8 enforcement: patterns and lessonsSection 8 enforcement ranges from deliberate kickback schemes to arrangements that drifted. A look at the recurring patterns — and the practices that catch problems early.Read guide
- Desk Rentals5 min readAre desk rental arrangements still legal? What lenders need to knowDesk rental between lenders and real estate brokerages is one of the most scrutinized co-marketing arrangements. The short answer: yes, but only under strict conditions.Read guide
- Sponsorships6 min readEvent sponsorships and RESPA: what qualifies, what doesn'tSponsoring a real estate conference or open house can be a legitimate co-marketing activity — or a disguised referral fee. The distinction comes down to FMV and documentation.Read guide
GlossaryKey RESPA and advertising terms, with citations.Open the glossary →FAQBuying, access, AI and data — answered.Read the FAQ →
These guides are general information, not legal advice. Laws and regulatory guidance change; talk to your counsel about your specific arrangements.
Put the guides to work.
Castrum applies the same Section 8 checks to every co-marketing request and keeps the file together — see how in a 20-minute demo.