The millionaire real estate agent - Do i need to join Keller Williams?

[James Park]

One of my favorite books is the millionaire real estate agent by Gary Keller. The book shows how one can build a brokerage and have a mind set of a business owner. Although, I've ran my own business (non real estate related) since July of 2007 and it has provided me a stable income for the past 5 years, however it is not a business of my passion. It is becoming harder and harder for me to sustain.

July 2012 was a turning point in my life when my father, who was friend and mentor, suddenly died of a heart attack at such a young age of 65. He always told me that you have to be in a business that you love... otherwise you will not be successful. My father's sudden death completely changed how i viewed money and life but that's a different topic for another thread.

I am currently wth a small brokerage, Park Mason Brokers who gives me a very generous commission cut of only a $195 transaction fee. I recently closed two investors working as a buyer's agent. I don't mind working with investors, but i quickly realized that I much rather work as a listing agent than a buyer's agent. You have more control over your time and have more leverage. When you work as a buyer's agent, you have less control over your time.

If you work as a buyer's agent, i assume that most people don't care about whch brokerage you are with, but as a listing agent, customer would care a great deal if you are from a brand name brokerage like Keller Williams, compared a no name brokerage like Park Mason. Am I correct in my thinking? Ideally I would like to work 80% in the list side and only 20% in the buy side. Would it be wise for me join Keller Williams at this time if i want to eventually have my own brokerage. Sort of feel like a lone ranger trying to kick start this new business. I do have 5 year team of a web developer/DBA,designer, and an assitant with my current business and trying figure out how to leverage this team to my new real estate business.

[Jeff S.]

Starting out I'd suggest a larger company just because they have systems in place a newer agent needs. Think of it as a springboard and a place to learn. It is good to know these perspectives so if/when you choose something smaller you will have a more balanced education. Large companies are helpful but restrictive. When the restrictions get in the way it is time to move.