2025 Cap Buy-Down Pilot Program Submission Guide

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Before submitting your lead purchases for the cap buy-down, ensure that:

• You have achieved at least 80% of your cap ($80,000 for individual agents or $148,000 for teams) in gross receipts.

• Your lead purchases were made from approved sources (e.g., Zillow or Realtor.com) or were pre-approved by the brokerage.

• All advertising expenses are fully paid (no pending payments or payment plans).

Step 2: Gather Required Documentation

Prepare the following materials for submission:

1. Detailed Invoices or Receipts

   • Ensure receipts include:

     • Date of purchase.

     • Total amount paid.

     • Description of the service (e.g., buyer leads, seller leads).

2. Description of Leads Purchased

   • A brief explanation of how the leads align with the program’s goals (e.g., targeting active buyers/sellers).

3. Proof of Payment

   • Documentation showing the purchase is fully paid (e.g., confirmation emails, paid statements, etc.).

Step 3: Access the Submission Form

Use the designated Cap Buy-Down Submission Form to upload your documentation:

• Access the form via this link: https://forms.gle/M21FJXiwuQNrbC8r9.

• Log in using your agent credentials provided by the brokerage (Same as NELR Gmail).

Step 4: Complete the Submission Form

Fill out all required fields on the form, including:

• Your Name/Team Name: Enter your full name or team name as registered with the brokerage.

• Gross Receipts to Date: Indicate your gross receipts as of the submission date.

• Lead Purchase Details: Include the total amount of the lead purchase and the platform used (e.g., Zillow).

• Upload Documentation: Attach all required files (e.g., invoices, descriptions, proof of payment). Ensure that:

  • Files are clear and legible.

  • File formats include PDF, JPEG, or PNG.

Step 5: Submission Deadline

• Submissions must be made within 30 days of the lead purchase date or within 30 days of reaching the 80% threshold, whichever is later.

• Final Deadline:

  • All submissions must be received by January 15, 2026.

  • For agents who hit the 80% threshold after November 30, 2025, the submission deadline to apply the adjusted cap to December commissions is December 15, 2025.

Step 6: Confirmation and Processing

1. Confirmation Email:

   • After submitting the form, you will receive a confirmation email acknowledging receipt of your documentation.

2. Review Period:

   • The brokerage will review your submission within 5 business days to verify eligibility and documentation.

3. Cap Adjustment Notification:

   • Once approved, your adjusted cap will be reflected in your commission statements within one commission cycle.

Step 7: Monitor Your Progress

Check your updated cap and contact the admin team if:

• You have questions about your submission status.

• Your cap adjustment does not appear in your next commission cycle.

Example of Late-Year Submissions

Scenario 3: Late-Year Purchases

• Lead Purchase Date: December 1, 2025.

• Date Agent Reaches 80% of Cap: December 3, 2025.

• Submission Deadline: To apply the adjusted cap for December commissions, the agent must submit their purchase documentation by December 15, 2025.

• Outcome:

  • Submissions made after December 15 may not apply to 2025 commissions. Any unused buy-down amounts will be forfeited, and no adjustments will carry over to the 2026 cap.

Tips for a Smooth Submission

• Submit Early: Avoid delays by submitting your lead purchases as soon as possible after hitting the 80% threshold.

• Check Your Documentation: Ensure all receipts and proof of payment are complete and legible.

• Track Your Expenses: Record all lead purchases to simplify the submission process.

For further assistance, please contact TonyWalton@nelandmark.com