I would like to know if I should be going for large brand name or small boutique brokerage?

Looking for a place in Atlanta where I may be able to purchase brand name new appliances for wholesale prices - or at least at price points lower than the usual big box stores.

What are your thoughts on bigger, brand name movers coming in to an already active market?

When you are dealing with seller's, all they care about is that you can solve their problem, not if you have a brand name or are well known.

The broker may charge for any/all of the following:- Desk fees (monthly fees for being part of the brokerage, having access to the office, etc)- Commission fees (brokerage may take a percentage of each commission or a fixed amount per transaction)- MLS fees (to get access to the MLS)- E&O fees (this is your broker's insurance against you screwing up a deal)- NAR fees (to be a member of NAR)- Cost of tools (like lockboxes, electronic keys, etc)- Etc...Some brokers charge high monthly fees and a significant percentage of your commission; in return you get a big brand name to associate yourself with (Re/Max, Keller Williams, etc).

That appear on your reports, they don't see your vacations, nor do they see your supermarket shopping, and your brand name watches etc.

They need a brand name to give to their board. 

Whether it's faucets or toilets, I'll always get a step or two up in a brand name. 

I suspect that shopping for a cheaper insurance will make things a bit better, however not sure if its worth it, I feel "safe" with a big brand name insurance that I currently have. 

The loan is kind of like buying salt or sugar; they are just commodities and brand name doesn't make much difference.