In order to work as a real estate agent, not only do you need to pass the test, you need to work under a broker. There is a lot more to it than most agents realize, though most just go with the first broker to invite them. And often, it's not a good fit.
So how do you find the right broker for YOU?
First, if you're anywhere near a decent sized city, you may be surprised to know that there could be hundreds of different brokers out there. You may have only seen or heard of the big brand name brokerages or the large virtual brokerages out there. And that's because they are motivated to recruit you. For some brokerages, if they recruit you (oops, the correct term is 'attract'), they potentially get some bonus income. That's why these brokerages are so well known.
But just because a brokerage is large and well known, doesn't mean it's the right fit for you. So we need to discuss a few things: first, how to find brokerages to talk to, and second, how to know which are a better fit for you and your personality and preference.
It's a very common misconception that all offices are the same, or that all agents are the same. In fact, it's probably the only field where people assume this. It's not only untrue, it's probably the most diverse field of people you'll ever encounter. Even in the same office, you'll have a variety of personalities, styles, experience, and ways that each agent works. That's good news for new agents. That means that whatever style, preference or limitations you may have, there are most likely other agents who share some of your traits and are successful.
When looking for an office to work in, it's very common to go to the first one you see, or one that presented to your real estate class, or that sent you an email after you registered for the test. It's great that they are actively recruiting you, but do some due diligence.
First, where do you find all these other brokers to see if they are a fit. Assuming you don't have access to the MLS yet, there are several ways you can do this. One way is to find a "Homes for Sale' magazine in your area. Often they are in rack stands near tourist areas or at grocery magazine & newspaper racks. Inside these will be a list of offices and agents that advertise listings and services. There will be many of the usual offices there, but also many you wont recognize.
Another place to find brokerages is to just go to your favorite real estate website or app. Search for homes in your city or county, or preferred neighborhood. This will take a bit of work, but as you list the homes, or click on each, the brokers name will be there and usually it will be required to show the contact info and usually the actual agent with the listing.
Third, you can use Google or your favorite search engine to look for agents in your area.
Make a list of the brokerage, phone number, website if listed, and the specific agent if you can. This will be your starting point. Sometimes on the real estate websites you can click on these and see more info as well. But your next step is to google the brokerage and look for reviews. If the brokerage (or agent) has good reviews, this is a good sign. If they don't, and some won't, it's also a good sign to probably skip this office.
Interestingly, you can have multiple offices of the same brand in an area and they will be vastly different in style, energy, quality, and even reviews. So while one office may be a dud, the other could be a stud. So check them all out.
The first thing most people do is reach out to the broker and set up a time to interview. And you will do this, but I suggest that you make that your last step. The next thing you'll want to do is call the actual agents who work at that brokerage. When you searched for brokerages, in most cases you will find at least one agent that is listed with the home for sale, and often you'll find multiple listings by that company, but with other agents. Find at least one, preferably 2 or more, reach out by phone to talk to them.
This could seem very scary, but honestly, it's a great way to get to connect with agents and most will be super friendly. And some may not be, and that could be an important sign too. When you call, you'll say something like "hi, I noticed you work with X brokerage. I'm a brand new agent, looking at brokers, and wanted to know a bit about what it's like to work there." They'll usually be happy to give you a few minutes of their time. Don't leave messages if they don't answer as most won't call back if it's not going to lead to a client.
Here are some other questions to ask:
As you talk to more agents, you'll get more comfortable and the conversations will be easier. And some agents will say things like "I'd love to work with you and help you get started" These are all good things, but finish the list before committing to anything as you'll want to make sure you really do your due diligence. You will learn a lot doing this and hopefully feel excited about your choice of real estate. If nothing else, you'll get a good look at how varied and different agents are.
Once you've gone through your list of agents, the list of brokers you want to talk to should be clearer. And some of the agents may have even setup a time for you.
The reason I suggest this process is to give yourself the best shot at success. When you talk to brokers, they will generally paint a picture of all the good things they offer. And that's fine. But talking to agents and checking reviews will give you a different perspective that is even more important - how do the agents and the public feel about the company.
When you do talk to the broker, it may actually be the office manager. They will give you a tour or tell you what you gain from working with them. You'll have questions for them as well.
You can ask anything you want and after doing this a few times, you'll get much more familiar with what you're going to hear and how the conversation will go.
Once you've selected a broker, and your license is issued, they will connect your license under theirs and then you're active and official.
Congrats!
