Is creating an LLC a good idea for a Real Estate Agent?

[Bryan Gamble]

As an agent, instead of using my personal name on everything can I use a DBA business instead?

People always talk about "building your business", but without brand recognition these possibilities seem, well, limited. If i ever leave the business I may want to sell the business I've worked hard to build, this seems hard to do if everything is reliant upon my personal name and brokers franchise name. Also, God forbid a few deals go wrong and my personal name comes under scrutiny. With a business name, one could simply close shop, create a new name and maybe start fresh. This would seem fairly difficult if using ones birth name. You cant just go around changing your real life name all willy nilly. Having a DBA name would also allow me to distribute any excess leads to other agents within my network all while under my umbrella. Never to be about the agent in particular, but instead, about the brand which made the connection possible. Besides, in the long run, catchy business names and slogans are embedded into the mind and are always easier to remember than one individuals' name.

So as an agent, is creating a DBA name and conducting all real estate transactions using this name possible? If so, what are some obstacles I may encounter along the way?

Any and all responses are welcomed and will be forever cherished. Thanks a bunch!

[Deshan Kennedy]

Bryan Gamble Yes you can create a LLC as an umbrella for you and your team. It will be more beneficial if you trying to build a brand and that would be a great way to do so but keep in mind there are more fees associated with a RE agent using a LLC. The long term rewards can easily outweigh the cons in doing so. Find a mentor in your area who is currently doing what you envision your team will be and ask them to give you tips on doing it. Branding is everything no matter what so creating an LLC and providing great service will be awesome for you but you can market your name with your LLC so they both will. E associated as one.