How to Choose a Real Estate Brokerage (Guide)

How to choose a real estate brokerage to work for can determine your success, the training you receive, and your overall satisfaction in the industry. 

Different brokerages offer varying levels of support, commission structures, and resources, so it’s critical to evaluate your options carefully. 

Whether you're wondering how to pick a real estate broker to work for or how to choose a broker as a new agent, making the right choice will directly impact your career trajectory.

What Types of Real Estate Brokerages are There?

When deciding how to choose a real estate brokerage, it’s important to understand the different types available. 

Franchise brokerages, such as Keller Williams or Century21, are often part of national or global companies, providing extensive resources and branding but may come with higher fees. 

On the other hand, independent brokerages give agents more freedom and personalized support but may lack the widespread recognition of a larger franchise. 

Virtual brokerages are becoming more popular, allowing agents to work remotely and reduce overhead costs, though they might offer less face-to-face interaction and community support.

When deciding how to pick a real estate broker to work for, consider the pros and cons of each type to match your career goals, work style, and desired level of support.

How to Choose the Best Real Estate Brokerage

To choose the right brokerage, research the brokerages in your area. You want to evaluate the brokerage based on the following factors:

• Commission structure
• Training and mentorship
• Brokerage culture and support systems
• Leads and marketing
• Locations and market expertise
• Technology and tools
• Brokerage reputation and client reviews

Let’s dive into each one of these factors and see how to identify a good brokerage – especially for new agents.

Evaluate the Commission Structure

When deciding how to select a real estate broker to work for, it’s essential to understand the commission structure. 

Most real estate agents earn a percentage of each sale, known as the commission split, which can range from 60/40 to 70/30 or more. 

In addition to splits, some brokerages charge desk fees or other administrative costs, which can reduce your overall earnings. 

As a new agent, these factors can significantly impact your income, so it’s important to assess how the commission structure will affect your bottom line and future growth when you’re trying to find a broker as a real estate agent.

Training and Mentorship Opportunities

For new agents, choosing a brokerage that offers robust training and mentorship programs can be a game-changer. 

Learning the ropes of real estate requires more than just passing the licensing exam—you’ll need real-world experience, guidance, and ongoing education. 

When considering how to choose a broker as a new agent, look for a brokerage that provides structured training programs, access to mentors, and resources to help you succeed. 

A solid mentorship program will accelerate your growth and help you avoid common pitfalls as you pick a real estate broker to work for.

Brokerage Culture and Support Systems

The culture of a brokerage plays a crucial role in your long-term success and satisfaction as an agent. 

When evaluating how to choose a real estate agency to work for, look beyond commission splits and consider the support system offered by the brokerage. 

A collaborative and supportive environment, where team members help each other, can make a big difference, especially for new agents. 

Brokerages with strong office culture and effective agent tools can provide the encouragement and assistance you need to thrive as you learn how to choose a real estate brokerage that aligns with your values.

Leads and Marketing Support

Some brokerages offer lead generation and marketing support to help agents grow their client base. 

When choosing a real estate brokerage, inquire about how the brokerage helps agents secure leads and market their services. 

Some provide extensive tools, including CRM systems, paid advertising, and client referrals, while others may leave agents to develop their own leads. 

This level of support can significantly impact your success as a new agent, so consider it carefully when finding a real estate broker that fits your needs.

Location and Market Expertise

A brokerage's knowledge of the local market can be a critical factor in your career success. 

When looking at how to find a broker as a real estate agent, consider how well the brokerage understands the area in which you want to work. 

A brokerage with strong local expertise will be able to guide you more effectively, helping you build a network and connect with clients. 

The location of your brokerage also affects the type of properties you’ll work with, the client base you’ll serve, and your overall career growth, making this a key factor when choosing a broker as a new agent.

Technology and Tools

In today’s competitive real estate market, modern technology and tools can greatly impact your success as an agent. 

A brokerage that offers advanced CRM systems, digital marketing tools, and transaction management software can help you streamline your work and manage clients more effectively. 

When considering how to choose a real estate brokerage, look for one that provides access to the latest tech resources. 

This not only saves time but also boosts your efficiency, allowing you to focus more on building relationships and closing deals. 

Whether you prefer a traditional office or are exploring how to choose a real estate agency to work for with a virtual presence, access to cutting-edge technology can make all the difference.

Brokerage Reputation and Client Reviews

A brokerage’s reputation is one of the most important factors to consider when deciding where to work. 

A firm with a strong track record of satisfied clients and successful transactions can offer you credibility and a solid foundation for building your career. 

To ensure you’re making the right choice, research the brokerage’s standing in the market by checking online reviews, testimonials, and industry awards. 

Knowing how to pick a real estate broker to work for involves looking beyond just commission splits—finding a brokerage with a reputation you can be proud of is key to attracting clients and growing your professional network.

Interviewing Real Estate Brokerages

When you have found a few brokerages that you like, it’s time to schedule an interview.

To do so, simply call the brokerage front desk or send them an email. In your outreach, mention where you are in your career, your goals, and that you would like to interview.

Most brokerages are excited to recruit agents. So, interviewing and getting recruited is doable. Make sure to prepare interview questions based on the criteria we listed above.

Asking those interview questions will help you learn more about the brokerage and its resources.

Final Thoughts on Picking Your Real Estate Brokerage

Choosing the right real estate brokerage is a crucial step in building a successful career. 

From evaluating commission structures and technology to considering training programs and company culture, there are many factors to weigh. 

When deciding how to choose a real estate brokerage, take the time to assess your goals, needs, and long-term vision. Whether you’re just starting or looking to make a switch, understanding your options will help you make an informed choice.