Is there a limit determined by California State law to the amount of commission one can rebate to a buyer, bearing in mind that the buyer does not have a real estate license? Can a broker basically rebate any amount they please, or is there a limit? I'm aware of lender limits - I just wanted to know if there was any kind of STATE limit, or limit set by the DRE.

I think they call them Kickbacks, which sounds illegal to me.

Commission for conducting licensed activities (like commissions or referral fees) to an unlicensed individual is forbidden by the DRE.

Also this may border on a Federal violation of RESPA.

Ditto to what Oakenfold so stated. When in doubt, check RESPA.....