Just as builders carefully follow blueprints when constructing a home, new real estate agents must carefully examine every step they take when building their careers. One of the steps to becoming a real estate agent is finding the right real estate brokerage.
Finding the right real estate brokerage is critical, as your brokerage will provide a guiding framework when starting your real estate business. However, other decisions are just as important – including how you will build your community presence and develop a marketing strategy that works.
For a detailed plan on how to achieve your career goals, sign up to receive a series of ebooks, Agents’ Blueprints for Success. This free content contains practical tips and tricks for beginning and experienced real estate agents.
Our ebooks cover the following topics:
- Finding the right real estate brokerage
- Boosting your community presence and building relationships
- Writing top-performing listings
- Generating real estate referrals
- And more!
Here’s a brief overview of why you need our first ebook, Finding the Right Real Estate Brokerage. While this content will benefit someone going through the real estate licensing process, it can also provide insight for experienced agents contemplating a change.
Key Takeaways About Finding the Right Brokerage
- Real estate agents must work under a supervising broker.
- Before choosing a brokerage, learn about the benefits they offer.
- Take a systematic approach when selecting a brokerage.
- Prepare for your brokerage interview by creating a list of topics to cover.
Can Real Estate Agents Work For Themselves?
While real estate agents have a lot of independence regarding the day-to-day operation of their business, they have a legal requirement to work under the supervision of a sponsoring broker. After you work as a real estate agent for a state-mandated period of time, you can go through the broker licensing process to obtain more autonomy and advance your career.
Do your career goals include earning a broker license? Understanding your goals, whether they’re focused on income, leadership, or work-life balance, can help guide your choice of brokerages. Our ebook describes the types of real estate brokerages that you will need to choose from when becoming an agent in Ohio.
Benefits of Joining a Real Estate Brokerage
Your career aspirations and learning needs can help you choose a brokerage. Brokerages provide mentorship, training, support, and resources crucial for success in the industry. Finding the right one to partner with is critical.
Here are some of the benefits of joining a real estate brokerage.
Mentorship: The value of mentorship cannot be overstated. Look for brokerages prioritizing mentorship by providing formal programs and informal opportunities to work with more experienced agents.
Training: Some brokerages offer robust formal training programs focused on a specific niche.
Marketing Support: Your brokerage may offer professionally designed marketing materials, including digital marketing support – and training on leveraging these materials to promote your listings and build your brand.
Resources: Your brokerage may provide CRM tools, administrative assistance, and other resources critical in the day-to-day operation of your business.
Our ebook has two chapters dedicated to benefits to look for when finding a brokerage. Learn more about Training & Support Programs and Technology & Marketing Resources to guide your decision.
Steps to Finding the Right Real Estate Brokerage
How do you find a real estate brokerage that is right for your career? Here are some quick tips to help you narrow down the list of brokerages to consider.
1. Research brokerages in your area.
Visit brokerage websites, read agent and client reviews, and seek insights from fellow agents or other professionals in the industry. Pay attention to the firm’s reputation, size, and niches. This preliminary research will help you narrow your options to the type of brokerage that best suits your needs.
2. Attend real estate networking opportunities.
Gain firsthand insights by attending real estate events, seminars, and networking sessions. Engage with fellow agents, brokers, and industry experts to learn about different brokerages and explore potential opportunities.
3. Ask for referrals.
Tap into your network for referrals to reputable brokerages in your area. Seek recommendations from experienced agents and recent clients who may have insight into your local industry.
4. Schedule discussions with brokers in your area.
Schedule interviews with prospective brokers you are most interested in and assess their compatibilities to help you with your goals.
Topics to Ask About When Finding the Right Real Estate Brokerage
Any time you interview for a job, it’s vital that you ask clarifying questions to make sure you understand the role and responsibilities. However, it is especially important to ask questions if you are a real estate agent trying to find a brokerage.
Prepare a list of questions. Here are some topics to cover.
- Company culture
- Support and resources
- Market presence
- Opportunities for growth
- Training and development
- Commission structure and fees
Learn more about real estate commission structures and fees in our free ebook, Finding the Right Brokerage.
Other Factors to Consider When Finding a Brokerage
We’ve just touched the tip of the iceberg on this topic. Download our free guide, Agent Blueprints for Success. The first ebook you receive will touch on additional topics regarding finding a brokerage, such as the following:
- Assessing company culture and environment
- Legal and regulatory considerations
- Negotiating your contract
Colibri Real Estate is proud to offer these and other career resources for real estate agents. You can also depend on Colibri for all your real estate licensing needs, as we have helped almost half a million agents earn their licenses. We are so confident in our courses that we offer a Pass or Don’t Pay Guarantee. Contact a Colibri representative today to learn more.
