*Probably a Southern California specific question*

Hi all,

I recently passed my CALIFORNIA state exam and am preparing to join an R.E. outfit. I'm going to attempt to go in full blast and do R.E. full time and rely on about a 8 month financial reserve to back me up. I also have a licensed Mural/Photo Restoration/Graphic Design business (I'm the sole owner, no employees) but it is totally dead right now despite various forms of advertisement.

To try to insure success, I know a new, green agent should go with an R.E. office that is extremely "new agent friendly". From everything I've researched, I've narrowed it down to Tarbell or First Team. Both emphasize how concerned they are with getting a new agent totally prep'ed, up and going on a successful path.

Does anyone here have an opinion on either of these two companies from personal experience? I think both of these companies are the best for new agents and both are local to me (San Bernardino county) so I have ruled out the rest.

Interview with Top Producers in your area and see if you can join a team as a buyers agent. Their name brings in clients and you get top notch training and a paycheck

Hey Bob. Would that be similar or the same as working in the capacity of an assistant for the team leader in order to get a regular paycheck?

P.S. My friend and his wife have been somewhat actively searching for a home with an agent for a few months now. I was thinking that after joining an office or team that I can be their agent, vigorously look for a house for them and that way, get them a home and get my first notch on my belt. I was wondering if there would be any issues with "taking" them away from the other agent. I don't know if he's not doing enough for them or if they are shooting down all the houses he shows them. I know $$$ is an issue for them.