Advice on finding a Broker to hang my hat with

[Sabrina Calnan]

Hello - I have signed up for me RE agents courses and exam. I have no plans to be a career agent; however, I work with a partner and we do property management and invest in rentals and I will likely have a decent pipeline of 1031 exchanges and investor purchases.

In CO you have to work under an employing broker for 2 years before you can work independently. How do I go about finding and employing broker who doesn't mind that I don't plan to be a career agent? Should I start applying before I take my test?

Thank you!

[Tom V.]

Here's the trick - sign up with whomever you want and like, because you are apt to be paying them. At least, that was my experience going through the same process. The brokerage agency gets a cut of your commissions and you may well have to pay them a 'desk fee' or similar for facilities and to pay for errors and omissions insurance. They won't pay you to start out.

I suggest you call several and try to set up informational interviews. If you present yourself thoughtfully, most people will give you 20 minutes, especially if you could produce income for them later on. Figure out what sounds best for you. They will take you more seriously if you wait until after you have passed your classes and exams and received your license.

Good luck with the pipeline!