I own two companies, Rewind Memories (digital conversion company) and That's Crisp (boutique design agency).

If you are operating in DC, it is a bit easier operating out of a small boutique place, but I still prefer the branding that comes from the big name guys.

If your intent is just to buy and sell your own properties, then I would think a small boutique investor friendly brokerage is the way to go.  

@Medvin B.If you are going to be involved with talking to sellers, you may want to get licensed.See http://dredefenselawyer.com/california-bureau-of-r...Then find a boutique RE Broker to hang your lic with.We sue everybody here in Cali.

It's gone from pimps, pushers, and street walkers to restaurants, antiques, and boutique furniture stores.  

It is in what is considered a boutique market. 

The areas you can get a duplex for 200k may not be the best, but if you plan to turn the property into a dedicated investment then it's only a temporary arrangement.I work with a small, boutique brokerage called Sand Dollar Real Estate Group on Sullivans Island.

Also, would you recommend going into a boutique firm first?

I have a boutique residential brokerage and have an investor client paying ~$225k/house in DFW.

I am currently working with a small real estate boutique.