I'm currently considering a career in Real Estate. I've been reading websites of some of the larger companies in SE Florida and find I have more questions than answers. For instance, the discount firms say prospecting is old school. Work with them and people just come to you! Well, I see they have lots of listings, but I'm interested in a company that offers full customer service. Some traditional companies have desk fees, many claim to have the "best" educational programs. Our marketplace is in real flux right now with high insurance costs and increasing taxes making it hard for people to even downsize. I know the market will correct, and maybe this is a good time for me to get my license and learn.

I see that some agents pay a transaction fee and some get a split. Some get a referral fee for mortgages. But auto insurance increases and there are membership fees, etc. There is a lot to learn and consider!

I'd really love to get the inside scoop in order to know exactly what to look for, what to avoid, and how to find a mentor when you don't know which company you may choose.

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Ruth

Ruth,

I just posted a simialr question here: http://www.agentsonline.net/forum/ultimatebb.php/topic/1/8388.html

Looking forward to seeing the responses!

When you're brand new, it's really hard to sort through all the details. After a year in the business, you'll have a much better idea of what you want. At this point, you may not even know yourself what will make you happy. Some discount firms DO offer full service and yes, in some markets, the business truly does come to you. (I am currently mentoring a client in Colorado who works for one of these). Some companies offer lots of training, although I've found that often the training is pretty sketchy and scattered.

My best advice? Interview around... find a place that "feels" right to you. You'll know when a company is a bad fit for you and you'll know when a place feels good. Your initial relationship with your broker will be important, so if you have a great rapport with the managing broker, that might be a good spot for you. Don't work for a Re/Max or other desk-fee company starting out - you WANT your company to have an interest in your production so they'll be willing to help you out.

On the other hand, real estate is an individual sport. Your success will not depend on the company you choose; it will depend on you. And if you pick the wrong office at first, it's no big deal to switch, so don't incur too much brain damage - just go to work!

Good luck!

Jennifer

Jennifer - thank you. Very sound advice. I appreciate it!