I am just getting started in New England and was hoping that someone could help me understand the benefits and dis-advantages of working as a buyers agent for an already-established Realtor. How well does this arangenment usually work? What is reasonable with respect to splitting commissions? It sounds like it might make sense but I could use some "real world" insights. Thanks.

RagMan

In a typical team system a Buyer's Agent is in an employee type role on a Mega Agent team.

The Buyer's Agent should be dedicated to building the MegaAgent's business and not his own.

It's a good way to start in the business if you need money now... however you're postponing building your own sustainable business.

Your Mega Agent should be responsible for generating leads and handling the transaction from contract to close. You should expect to be on a much lower split because of the front end and back end service that is provided by the Mega Agent.

I would be wary of teams that allow you to be a Buyer's Agent and build your own business and generate your own leads if you need money immediately. If they are willing to let you go half-way it could be an indication that the lead generation systems and other programs in place aren't going to give you the business you need.

However... there are exceptions to every rule and I'm sure other folks will see it differently

In some smaller teams a big problem is that all the "juicy" leads are kept by the senior agent , and you might just be left with the crumbs - each team is different thouh and not all operate that way

There is certainly an argument that the juicy leads should be kept by the senior agent.

The senior agent will have a higher closing ratio and more experience with higher end buyers.

Honestly, put yourself in the MegaAgent shoes, who are you going to give the best leads too.

Sales isn't fair.