Core Viewpoint - The phenomenon of "mortgage rebates" has emerged as a promotional tactic among banks to attract housing loan business, particularly in the second-hand housing market, despite being officially prohibited for over a decade [10][11][14]. Group 1: Mortgage Rebate Mechanism - Banks collaborate with real estate intermediaries to pay commissions based on a percentage of the mortgage amount for clients referred by these intermediaries, with rebate rates ranging from 0.3% to 1% [1][6][7]. - A typical case involves a borrower receiving a rebate of 4,500 yuan for a 1 million yuan mortgage at a 0.45% rebate rate [4]. Group 2: Regulatory Environment - The China Banking Association issued a notice in 2010 to stop banks from paying rebates to intermediaries, highlighting the issue of unhealthy competition among banks [2][11]. - Recent initiatives by financial regulatory bodies in various regions aim to combat rebate practices in both mortgage and auto loan sectors, promoting a more stable market environment [3][12][13]. Group 3: Challenges in Regulation - Despite existing regulations, the practice of mortgage rebates persists due to various factors, including the lack of unified legal frameworks and the use of alternative payment terms to disguise rebates [14][15]. - The pressure on bank branches to meet performance targets often leads to tacit acceptance of rebate practices, as they become a key method for customer acquisition [14]. Group 4: Consumer Risks - Consumers may face risks associated with mortgage rebates, including potential misrepresentation of loan costs and the possibility of being steered towards less favorable loan products [9][14]. - The lack of formal documentation regarding rebate agreements can lead to issues with enforcement and consumer rights [9].