Dec 23 (Reuters) - The top U.S. watchdog agency for

consumer finance on Monday accused Rocket Homes, a unit of

Rocket Companies ( RKT ), and a group of real estate brokerages

of an illegal kickback scheme to steer mortgage applications to

Rocket Mortgage.

"Rocket engaged in a kickback scheme that discouraged

homebuyers from comparison shopping and getting the best deal,"

said CFPB Director Rohit Chopra. "At a time when homeownership

feels out of reach for so many, companies should not illegally

block competition in ways that drive up the cost of housing."