Starting a career in real estate is exciting, but it’s also full of decisions that can shape your future. One of the most important choices you’ll make early on—or even later if you’re switching companies—is which brokerage to join. At first, it might seem simple: just go with the one offering the highest commission split, right? But the truth is, the brokerage you choose will influence everything from your learning curve and your reputation to how much support you’ll get when things get tough.

Think of it like choosing a home. It’s not just about how nice it looks on the surface. You’re also considering the neighborhood, how comfortable you feel inside, whether it fits your lifestyle, and whether it’s somewhere you can see yourself growing over the years. Picking a brokerage works the same way.

The Role of Training and Mentorship

When you’re just starting out, nothing matters more than the training and mentorship you receive. Real estate isn’t the kind of career where you pass a licensing exam and suddenly know how to handle clients, negotiate deals, or market yourself. Most of that comes from hands-on experience and guidance from people who have been in the business for years.

Some brokerages have amazing training programs that walk you through everything: prospecting, handling contracts, even how to market yourself on social media. Others operate more like “sink or swim”—they give you a desk, wish you good luck, and hope you figure it out. Ask yourself honestly what you need. If you’re brand new, you’ll want that structured support. If you’re more experienced, maybe ongoing workshops or advanced coaching is enough.

I’ve talked to countless agents who regret not asking about mentorship before signing with their first brokerage. Having a seasoned agent you can shadow or call when you’re stuck on a tricky deal can be the difference between closing your first sale quickly and sitting idle for months.

Money Isn’t Everything (But It Matters)

Let’s talk commissions, because that’s usually the first thing everyone thinks about. It’s tempting to look at a split—say 80/20 or 90/10—and assume that’s automatically the best deal. But numbers can be deceiving.

Some brokerages lure you in with a high split but then charge heavy monthly fees, desk fees, or marketing costs. Others might offer a lower split, like 50/50, but they cover everything: your advertising, your signs, your office space. The bottom line? What matters is not the percentage you see on paper but what’s left in your pocket at the end of the year.

Here’s a tip: run the math as if you’re closing 5, 10, or 20 deals in a year. Which brokerage leaves you with the most actual take-home income? Sometimes that “lower split” option ends up being the smarter financial move.

Culture and Community

Something that often gets overlooked in the decision-making process is culture. But let me tell you—culture is huge. Real estate can be a lonely business. You spend a lot of time on the phone, in your car, or meeting clients. If you don’t have a community of supportive peers, it can start to feel isolating.

Ask yourself: does this brokerage feel like a place where people help each other out? Do the agents share knowledge and celebrate each other’s wins, or is it cutthroat and competitive? You’ll know pretty quickly when you walk into an office and see how people interact.

I’ve seen new agents thrive in a culture where everyone collaborates, and I’ve also seen people burn out in places where no one even remembers their name. It’s not just about making money—it’s about feeling like you belong.

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Reputation and Brand Power

When you hand someone your business card, the brokerage name on it carries weight. If you’re with a brand that’s well known and respected in the community, clients automatically trust you a little more. On the other hand, if you join a brokerage with a poor reputation, you’ll spend extra time convincing people that you’re reliable and professional.

This doesn’t mean you have to go with the biggest national brand. Boutique brokerages can be just as powerful if they’re respected locally. The key is credibility. Your brokerage’s reputation becomes your reputation, so choose wisely.

Tools and Technology

In today’s market, technology is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. From client relationship management systems (CRMs) to digital marketing platforms, the tools you have access to can make your job easier and your business more efficient.

Imagine trying to juggle dozens of leads without a CRM, or writing every single email campaign by hand. That’s exhausting and, honestly, unnecessary. Some brokerages provide these systems for free, while others charge extra. Make sure you ask what’s included and what you’ll need to pay out of pocket.

Marketing Support

Even if the brokerage brand is strong, you still need to market yourself. This is where marketing support comes in. Some companies provide ready-to-use templates for flyers and social media, professional photography for listings, and even ad support. Others expect you to handle everything on your own.

If you’re confident in your marketing skills, you may not need much help. But if you’re new, having access to high-quality marketing resources can save you both time and money while helping you look professional from day one.

Practical Considerations: Location and Leadership

The location of the office might sound trivial, but it matters. If you’re driving an hour each way just to check in, you’ll get tired of that quickly. Convenience matters, and so does visibility.

Leadership is another piece of the puzzle. The best brokerages have leaders who actually care about their agents. They’re approachable, they check in, and they celebrate your milestones. If you sit down with a broker or manager and they don’t even ask about your goals, that’s a red flag.

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Growth and Long-Term Vision

Think beyond your first year. Where do you see yourself in five years? Do you want to lead a team? Become a luxury specialist? Maybe even open your own office one day? Some brokerages provide clear paths for growth, offering leadership roles, profit-sharing, or advanced training. Others don’t.

It’s worth asking these questions early because you don’t want to find yourself stuck in a place that only cares about today’s deals without supporting your future.

Support Behind the Scenes

Finally, let’s talk about support staff. As an agent, your time is best spent building relationships and closing deals—not buried in paperwork. Brokerages that provide transaction coordinators, admin staff, or IT help can take a huge load off your plate. That support can free you up to focus on the things that actually grow your business.

Trusting Your Gut

After weighing all the facts—training, money, culture, tools—don’t forget to check in with your gut. How do you feel after talking to the broker or visiting the office? Do you feel excited at the idea of working there? Can you see yourself growing with this company long-term?

Sometimes the intangibles matter most. If it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should new agents focus on when picking a brokerage?

If you’re new, the number one thing to look for is training and mentorship. A strong commission split won’t matter if you don’t know how to get clients or close deals. Look for a brokerage that invests in new agents through classes, coaching, and one-on-one guidance.

Is a high commission split always the best choice?

Not necessarily. A 90/10 split looks great until you factor in monthly desk fees, marketing costs, and tech charges. Sometimes a 70/30 or even 50/50 split with no fees and full support will leave you with more money in your pocket. Always calculate your net income based on realistic deal scenarios.

How important is culture when choosing a brokerage?

Culture is more important than many people realize. If you’re in a supportive, collaborative environment, you’ll stay motivated and confident. In a toxic or overly competitive office, it’s easy to burn out. Pick a place where you feel comfortable and encouraged.

Should I join a big national brand or a small boutique brokerage?

It depends on your goals. National brands often have strong training programs and instant name recognition. Boutique brokerages may give you more personal attention and flexibility. Think about what matters more to you: brand power or a more intimate, personalized experience.

Can I switch brokerages if I make the wrong choice?

Yes, agents switch brokerages all the time. But moving too often can disrupt your momentum and confuse clients. That’s why it’s worth doing your research upfront and asking the right questions before signing on.

Do I need a physical office, or is a virtual brokerage fine?

Both options work depending on your style. Some people thrive in an office surrounded by other agents, while others prefer the independence of working from home. Virtual brokerages can save you money, but they may not provide the same sense of community.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a real estate brokerage isn’t a decision you should rush. It’s not just about the split or the perks—it’s about finding a place where you can learn, grow, and build a career you’re proud of. Take the time to evaluate training, culture, reputation, and support, but also pay attention to your instincts. The right brokerage is the one that feels like a partner, not just a place to hang your license.