Best brokerage company to start as an agent?

[Marcelo Ricarte]

Hello BP family,

My wife is getting her RE license in the next two weeks and we were wondering which company would be better for her to start where she can get a good training, coaching, mentoring, etc.?. That way we can transfer that knowledge to our Investing career.

Thanks in advance, Marcelo.

[Robert Smith]

That depends on the area, some say go with franchise while others say stay away. For me it is not about brand name as much as it is who is there. Overall most companies (big box) have a training program in place however some may not implement it. I would find a firm with a training broker who is in the office full time and does not compete with the agents. Sometimes smaller is better, one on one with seasoned professional, however that can back fire when they don't have time to train and your wife is left in the winds. Start out with a larger firm and see how it goes. The split and commission will more then likely be the same. Check into desk fees and franchise fees and see if they are flat or per deal. In the first year of not doing much it can be better to pay per deal, however if you are closing many deals quickly a desk fee and lower franchise fee can make a big difference in pay check. Ask around and look where the top producers are in the area, most agents are willing to share a few minutes to "pitch" their brand. I have been with Century 21, Re/Max, and have owned my own real estate firm. For each season of my career there were pro's and con's to each. Most agents don't make it long and I think it is #1 due to the fees you all of a sudden you have to pay, such as MLS and more training once licensed, and E&O insurance, but the #2 reason is lack of training. It is out there if that is what she wants. Good luck, it is a great business to get into.