For the record, I receive exactly ZERO compensation  for making these referrals.

So if they are properly compensated they would be doing themselves a personal disservice by steering residents away.  

Worker’s Compensation obviously covers injuries to a worker.  

When I contacted the listing agent to negotiate compensation, he responded that I should get my compensation from my client because  "the landlord only pays [him] half of a month".

I am open to compensating someone as a consultant, or buying you lunch/beer.

You'll probably have to compensate them for their time (something like $100) as you do not own the property nor have it under contract and GC's do not like having their time wasted with individuals who are simply seeking free bids and won't use them or are looking for a free tutorial.

Every area is different and many do not allow deposits to be used for anything other than compensation for tenant caused damage regardless of what a lease may say.

I like to keep things relatively equal, but if someone is bringing expertise to the table that adds value you otherwise wouldn't have realized then they should be compensated accordingly.

The other option I thought of was finding someone to buy the home and rent it to us with a higher rate while we sell our house and pay off the negatives on our credit and buy it back from them at a higher price so the investor would be receiving rent and a higher price as compensation. 

(VA Funding Fee is exempt if VA disability compensation is receive)@Bart H. hit the nail on the head!