I am looking to set up a LLC for my real estate business and I am very new to the business. My question is do you market or brand with the same name as your LLC name? For example, if I set up a LLC in the name of ABC realty LLC, is this what I also put on my bz cards/signs, and advertise and brand with? Or can there be two names?

Thanks so much for your feedback

This is more of a business question and I am not sure if "Aspiring Agent forum" is the right place to ask this. But I am hoping to get some feedback on this from some experienced agents.

Thanks!

Are you a broker, or are you a salesperson in terms of your licensure?

You must advertise based on what is on your license. So unless "ABC Realty, LLC" is on your salesperson's license, you can't market yourself as such. Even for me, I had to register my nickname "Steve" to avoid having to market myself as "Stephen".

You can market yourself as a team or group within your broker, but the name of at least one licensed person as is printed on their license must appear is every ad that you market yourself as a team or group in, as well as of course your broker's information in a conspicuous manner.

How much confidence will a consumer get when they see your company name as a 'limited liability'.

Before you even open your mouth you are telling them you don't want to accept most of the liability for your actions.

I know everybody is dong LLCs right now but I can't help but wonder how it is perceived by the public.

I don't think the public gives it any thought at all.

Anyways you can have an LLC and not advertise your trade name as "LLC". Most lawyers will tell you that you should include the LLC in your name, but you don't have to by law.

The benefit of an LLC is that your liability is only on company assets. A hungry person looking for a lawsuit can't go after your personal assets.

I don't think the public cares one way or the other, but, it gives my husband piece of mind that we'll always have a roof over our heads.
As far as making that impression about not being responsible enough to be liable - the real estate board will make sure you're liable if you've been found to do something wrong.

[quote=SWRSDC]I don't think the public gives it any thought at all.

Anyways you can have an LLC and not advertise your trade name as "LLC". Most lawyers will tell you that you should include the LLC in your name, but you don't have to by law. [/quote]

I would consider checking with your individual secretary of state office. As far as I know you must acknowledge that your firm is a LCC when advertising here in my state. Also, I don't think the general public gives any thought to what LLC is as well.

Everything is state specific and you should really check with the various authorities as to what you need to disclose... however, that being said, it would probably be a really good idea to have an LLC or some form of corporate "shield", your business is a separate entity from you. By having some sort of a corporation you divide and protect your business interests from your personal interests.

I have an LLC for my business but I advertise as myself. I am an idependent Agent with RE/MAX.

Good luck!

Thanks,

Mario