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How to earn bonus American Express points when buying or selling your house

Nov. 14, 2022
10 min read
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If we could pick a word to describe the housing market today, it would be uncertainty. The benchmark fixed rate on 30-year mortgages is at its highest level since 2002, and September saw existing home sales decline for the eighth straight month.

But many still need to buy (or sell) their homes in spite of this volatility. And as you evaluate whether it’s the right time to wade into the market, it's important to highlight a way to earn bonus American Express Membership Rewards points in the process — through RBN.

If you buy or sell a house using one of RBN’s participating agents, you’ll take home up to one Amex point for every dollar of the final purchase price of the home.

Sound too good to be true? That was my initial reaction when I first heard about RBN last year. But after extensive conversations with CEO Kipp Lassetter (and the chance to connect with some participating agents and their happy clients), I’ve realized that this is a viable way to boost your Membership Rewards balance.

Hear directly from Kipp by watching the recording of our Facebook Live.

If you’re planning to buy or sell a home and you’re not currently working with an agent, here’s how you can take home a huge haul of Amex points.

Earn Amex points when you buy (or sell) a home

Before you can even think about those points hitting your account, you need to first sign up for RBN’s services. To do so, visit this page and enter your city or zip code, then click Next. From there, follow the on-screen prompts to submit your information and schedule a consultation with a member of RBN’s concierge team — who will help find you the best agent for your needs.

According to RBN’s website, these agents are “selected by invitation only” — those who have a proven track record in a given area. The company now covers more than 330 markets (and counting), and while any agent can apply, only those who pass the detailed pre-screening process become a part of the program.

While RBN prides itself on the quality of agents it offers, the ability to earn Amex Membership Rewards points is a fantastic deal sweetener. Whether you are buying or selling a house or both, you will earn up to one Amex point per dollar of the purchase or sale price with an RBN participating agent.

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Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Up to” sounds like there’s some gray area, some opaque terms that could lead you to miss out on the points entirely.

Not true, according to RBN’s CEO.

“It’s based on the common commission structure” for the seller, Kipp said — for example, 6% of the purchase price, divided evenly between the buyer’s agent and seller’s agent. “As those vary off the structure, it will influence the amount of points.”

In other words, as long as there’s a typical commission agreement in place, the one-point-to-one-dollar ratio will stand.

Related: Tips on how to prepare for buying a home

How it works

Once you’ve been paired with an agent and decide to move forward, the process is no different than a standard real estate transaction. If you’re enlisting the help of someone to sell your house, the agent will go through the normal steps of getting pictures, pulling comps (prices of similar houses that recently sold in your area) and setting up your listing.

And if you’re looking to buy a house, it’s the same story.

Most notably, there’s no added cost to the customer.

I explicitly asked this question of RBN’s CEO, Kipp Lassetter, and he confirmed that they own a referral brokerage — where a participating agent pays a referral fee for the lead, whether it’s on the seller’s or buyer’s side of the transaction. This does appear on the closing statement, but it’s borne by the participating agent, not the consumer.

As an example, let's say that you enroll with RBN today, connect with a participating agent and sell your house for $750,000 early next year (not unheard of in the current real estate market). If your transaction follows a common commission structure for the agents, you'd take home 750,000 Amex points.

Here's a snapshot of what that could get you:

One of these redemptions is on the mind of one happy RBN customer, Nick Lowman. He closed on a house in California last September, and he took home over 800,000 points by using participating agent Amanda Stanworth. He transferred them to Virgin Atlantic (with a 30% bonus in effect at the time), leaving him with over a million Flying Club miles.

"We're planning on using these over time to fly first [or] business class to Japan on ANA," he told me via email. All in, he's looking at roughly 10 round-trip flights from the west coast of the U.S.

CHRIS DONG/THE POINTS GUY

Meanwhile, TPG reader Anthony Philpott is looking at an even more exotic trip for the 600,000+ Amex points he earned on his home purchase in July. As he tells it:

"One of our life goals is to visit the seven continents. The points we earned through this process will be used towards flights for our Antarctica trip. Our trip is in February 2023, and we plan on flying business [class] from the states to Argentina [with] a 1:1 transfer to a partner airline through American Express. We will spend some time in Argentina visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites and enjoying fine wines before embarking on our vessel to Antarctica."

But most importantly, both Nick and Anthony indicated that working with RBN was easy.

"The process — from beginning to end — was extremely simple," Nick said. Amanda was very experienced in the area they were looking, so she was a great asset throughout the transaction. Once their offer was accepted, Amanda notified RBN and made sure the necessary documents were filed — and the Amex points arrived within a week of closing.

Anthony had a similar experience.

"During the home buying process, RBN checked in weekly to see how everything was going ... to make sure my experience was superb," he said. And his Membership Rewards points posted within just a few days.

A growing footprint

Since its launch, RBN has grown from coverage in 52 markets to more than 330 — and counting. In those areas not currently served, RBN allows home buyers and sellers to invite agents to learn more about the program.

Remember too that you don't even need to have an eligible American Express card at the time of purchase. RBN will hold your points for you, and once your transaction is finalized, you can add a card like The Platinum Card® from American Express or the American Express® Gold Card to your wallet — and then receive your points.

Of course, there are many great options (other than those listed above) to get maximum value from your Amex points, especially when you utilize some of the program's transfer partners — which makes now a fantastic time to take home a large haul of rewards.

Bottom line

Buying or selling a house is a massive undertaking, and for many Americans, it represents the single biggest transaction they’ll be a part of in their lifetimes. And once the documents are signed, wouldn’t it be nice to snag a big payday of points?

If you're looking at selling or buying a house in the next year (or doing both!), enroll with RBN today and start the process of being matched with a participating agent. You could walk away with enough points for your next vacation — or your next two or three.

Click here to enroll with RBN.


FAQs

The general process of using RBN is covered above, but we’ve put together this list of FAQs that we’ve heard from others in the interest of providing a comprehensive view into the program.

Is this available everywhere in the United States?

RBN initially launched in 52 markets, but it’s since grown to more than 330 (and counting). And in those areas that aren’t currently served by an agent, the company allows home buyers and sellers to invite agents to learn more about the program — an option that roughly 5% of RBN’s current customers have used.

To see the participating agents in your area, enter your information on this page to begin the consultation process.

Can I use my existing agent?

This is where things get tricky. If you already have an agent — be it to sell your house or buy a new one — you won’t be eligible for the Amex points. This is disclosed directly in RBN’s terms:

“RBN respects existing contractual obligations with agents and their clients. Customers with existing agent agreements are not eligible to earn RBN Rewards.”

While existing agents can apply to become a part of RBN, there’s no guarantee that they’ll be accepted.

What if I don’t have an eligible American Express card?

While we hope everyone has at least one card that earns valuable Membership Rewards points, you fortunately don’t need one at the time of purchase. RBN will hold your earnings for you until you’re ready to add one to your wallet. This is especially notable for those who take out a mortgage, as the last thing you should do is apply for a new line of credit during the underwriting process.

Read more: How soon after a mortgage closing can you apply for a new credit card?

When you are ready to grab one, here are a couple of great options:

Note that you could snag even higher bonuses on these cards through the CardMatch Tool — though these are targeted offers and subject to change at any time.

Just remember that you must have a card that earns Membership Rewards points; cobranded cards (like those offered through Marriott, Delta and Hilton) are not eligible.

Am I charging the cost of the house to my credit card?

Absolutely not. Kipp says that this is one of the top misconceptions about the program. The only involvement from American Express is the bonus you get after closing; you aren’t actually using your credit card to purchase the house, nor are you using it to pay any deposits, title costs or mortgage fees.

Featured image by Getty Images
Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
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Rewards

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5XEarn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
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Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

Annual Fee

$695

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670-850
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Credit ranges are a variation of FICO© Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Why We Chose It

Sometimes it's worth a large investment to reap the benefits of a great credit card. That's exactly the case with the Amex Platinum card. In exchange for the annual fee, you'll unlock access to the Amex Membership Rewards program that let you access airline and hotel transfer partners, along with new lifestyle and travel credits. This card is also incredibly rewarding for travel purchases, helping you rack up a ton of Membership Rewards points for your next award trip.

Pros

  • The current welcome offer on this card is quite lucrative. TPG values it at $1,600.
  • This card comes with a long list of benefits, including access to Centurion Lounges, complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott, at least $500 in assorted annual statement credits and so much more. (Enrollment required for select benefits.)
  • The Amex Platinum comes with access to a premium concierge service that can help you with everything from booking hard-to-get reservations to finding destination guides to help you plan out your next getaway.

Cons

  • The high annual fee is only worth it if you’re taking full advantage of the card’s benefits. Seldom travelers may not get enough value to warrant the cost.
  • Outside of the current welcome bonus, you’re only earning higher rewards on specific airfare and hotel purchases, so it’s not a great card for other spending categories.
  • The annual airline fee statement credit can be complicated to take advantage of compared to the broader travel credits offered by competing premium cards.
  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • $200 Hotel Credit: Get $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 in statement credits each month when you pay for eligible purchases with the Platinum Card® at your choice of one or more of the following providers: Peacock, Audible, SiriusXM, The New York Times, and other participating providers. Enrollment required.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax.
  • American Express has expanded The Centurion® Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. Now there are even more places your Platinum Card® can get you complimentary entry and exclusive perks.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Card.
  • $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only.
  • $300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $300 back each year on an Equinox+ subscription, or any Equinox club memberships when you pay with your Platinum Card. Enrollment required. Learn more.
  • $189 CLEAR® Credit: Breeze through security with CLEAR® Plus at 45+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per year on your membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card.
  • $695 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.
  • See Rates & Fees
Apply for The Platinum Card® from American Express
at American Express's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees
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TPG Editor‘s Rating
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
4 / 5
Go to review

Rewards Rate

5XEarn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
5XEarn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • Intro Offer
    Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

    Earn 80,000 points
  • Annual Fee

    $695
  • Recommended Credit
    Credit ranges are a variation of FICO© Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

    670-850
    Excellent/Good

Why We Chose It

Sometimes it's worth a large investment to reap the benefits of a great credit card. That's exactly the case with the Amex Platinum card. In exchange for the annual fee, you'll unlock access to the Amex Membership Rewards program that let you access airline and hotel transfer partners, along with new lifestyle and travel credits. This card is also incredibly rewarding for travel purchases, helping you rack up a ton of Membership Rewards points for your next award trip.

Pros

  • The current welcome offer on this card is quite lucrative. TPG values it at $1,600.
  • This card comes with a long list of benefits, including access to Centurion Lounges, complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott, at least $500 in assorted annual statement credits and so much more. (Enrollment required for select benefits.)
  • The Amex Platinum comes with access to a premium concierge service that can help you with everything from booking hard-to-get reservations to finding destination guides to help you plan out your next getaway.

Cons

  • The high annual fee is only worth it if you’re taking full advantage of the card’s benefits. Seldom travelers may not get enough value to warrant the cost.
  • Outside of the current welcome bonus, you’re only earning higher rewards on specific airfare and hotel purchases, so it’s not a great card for other spending categories.
  • The annual airline fee statement credit can be complicated to take advantage of compared to the broader travel credits offered by competing premium cards.
  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • $200 Hotel Credit: Get $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 in statement credits each month when you pay for eligible purchases with the Platinum Card® at your choice of one or more of the following providers: Peacock, Audible, SiriusXM, The New York Times, and other participating providers. Enrollment required.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax.
  • American Express has expanded The Centurion® Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. Now there are even more places your Platinum Card® can get you complimentary entry and exclusive perks.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Card.
  • $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only.
  • $300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $300 back each year on an Equinox+ subscription, or any Equinox club memberships when you pay with your Platinum Card. Enrollment required. Learn more.
  • $189 CLEAR® Credit: Breeze through security with CLEAR® Plus at 45+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per year on your membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card.
  • $695 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.
  • See Rates & Fees