It depends on the other economies of scale your partner gets by being affiliated with a name brand firm.

Be positive, keep learning, affiliate with like minded entrepreneurs, LEAD WITH REVENUE, and keep at it.  

We live in New Mexico and are nearing becoming real estate agents where we have affiliated with Keller Williams in Albuquerque.  

There's usually strong home appreciation in Arlington because of the strength of the federal government and affiliated businesses.

You could try becoming a real estate licensee and affiliating with a brokerage firm that allows a broker to double end a net listing, and provided leads.  

It is sad because in looking at the listing, I came to learn that said listing agent is affiliated with a very reputable company here in Colorado yet it is sad to know that he operates in such a manner.

They split commissions with their agents, so their revenue grows with the number agents they have affiliated with their brokerage. 

Also, if you are an agent, you can work for or become affiliated with a broker.  

They are a bit pricey if you only buy a few, but I love the ease of design and the rates get pretty good if you buy more than 5 or 10.Intentionally un-linked so there's no affiliation.

Your affiliation with major league baseball will open quite a few more doors when it comes to financing and deal making.