I just can't understand, if you are going to pay a brokerage anyway, why you wouldn't choose a larger franchise that has all of the resources and technology right there for you.  Everything from listing presentations to customizable newsletters, special rates already negotiated for services we need and use, a large relocation network, referral programs and on and on. Not to mention conventions and special designations.

My company charges us up to a 12k cap.  Thats it. Every year.  12K. I have heard of others being charged enormous amounts and for what? At Prudential the only thing we are missing is the 'good ol boys' network.

And, really, that you can keep.

BTW, I chose my company because it was the only female broker in Windsor/Essex County and it was an international company with technology. The 12k was a bonus.

Not all franchises give you what they sat they will.  If you do go to a large franchise just check to see what they REALLY offer.

To answer that nagging question, "of course the grass is greener" somewhere else. It will always be greener somewhere else. I'm in Kansas, I am sure your grass is greener than mine.

I had that nagging question and decided it didn't matter who I worked for or where I worked, I was doing the work and started my own company. I had only worked for one broker and not a big name but a good name. I have found there is a big difference between big names and good names because it all comes down to the people.

You guys are a team, I wish my husband could work with me but he is busy making a living making aircraft parts.

Have you considered stepping out on your own? Bigger offices, bigger names, bigger perks, same work, just another shade of green.

But it never hurts to wonder.....

I tend to look at this a bit differently.  Because you can always find grass that appears to be greener, and may or may not in fact be greener once you start grazing there, I feel the best approach is to fully assess your current situation.  Try to discover whether or not there are issues that you truly feel make your current experience one that does not meet your requirements.  Make sure you understand exactly what problem you need to solve, and if you cannot solve it where you are, and if it is big enough that you absolutely need to solve it, then it's time to shop around.  But be aware that the next pasture may also not meet your requirements in some other way - and you likely will have a hard time anticipating what that way is.

Mary- I am getting ready to sit for my broker license and going on my own.  I don't have much use for any of the franchise bells and whistles (other than the brand) as I do my own thing including getting my GRI and CRS designations, leveraging technology, etc. I envision a one man shop and offering a boutique service that caters to buyers.  I have checked out other brokers' "pastures" but keep coming back to going solo.  Any thoughts you can share about your experience are appreciated.

Eric-I have never regretted getting my Brokers license. In fact just thinking about it makes me smile. I only worked for one broker previously, but just hearing talk from other agents there doesn't seem to be alot of satisfaction, recognition, not enough perks. I don't know what people are really wanting for themselves but they say if you can't find it, start it. Just operate your business with honesty and integrity and you will do fine.

Bad thing is, nobody tells you when to go home...might be hard on a family. I would have never done this if I still had kids at home because they were always priority.

And, it was never about the money. Money is necessary and good, but this is a service industry and it has to be about the service or you will get quickly sidetracked.

Let me know if you are struggling with the Broker license, I passed the first time but alot don't. It is like the original salespersons just more stuff. You will do fine!!

I choose my broker because she was my "Real Estate Agent" for 12 years and not once did she ever do anything that wasn't in my interest. She always treated me by the Golden Rule and I really appreciated that.  Honesty goes a very long way when it is coming from your "boss".  

I have friends that work for big brokers and I see things happen that remind me of another post (read Listen up! GO WITH YOUR GUT! ).  

Working with mutual respect and (more than) fairness is far more important to me than a fancy training program or a teeny office that you have to pay a fortune monthly for.

I admit that it would be nice to simply turn to the guy in the next little expensive office and ask a question but sometimes that question can cost you money.

My broker is the best.  She points out the right path and lets me find the way so I not only learn but gain confidence too. She is very supportive but not smothering.  We have a win-win situation as well because she has 25 years experience and I have some techno knowledge.  Works out great for both of us.

I think you really have to ask your self what is important to you and then find the brokerage that fits you best.  I am lucky, I hit it first time out!  I love not looking over my shoulder when I am trying to walk forward.

Hope you find what you are looking for.

I work for a big name broker. We have over 3000 aagent in Atlanta all working at 21 Offices and under one Broker. We have a cap, but all the extra perks are worth it. We get all the CE we will ever want. Technology second to none. We are the company with the Big billboard on the Interstate. We have over 20 Brokers in our Brokers support and the list goes on... I have only worked for this broker but I have been approached by others to come to work for them and none can offer me what I have here. I hope this helps. Most important though, is you must feel comfortable with whatever company you are with..

Mary- one thing I've got covered: no one tells me when to go home.

If you're thinking of making a move ... give it the Anthony Robbins rocking chair test. Which is when your retired sitting in your rocking chair can you live with the decision of NOT making the move OR will it bother you and you'll be kicking yourself by not at least trying.

If you have your own network and generate your own business...Go for it !

I was with Coldwell Banker for 14 years then got the same feeling your getting....it's only a matter of time and you'll change companies. You don't sound happy where you are. I hope your Broker isn't reading this.

http://RealtyExecutivesResults.com

 I'm in a small office. I get little or no business from my broker.  He asks little or nothing of me except to pay my board dues.  I have a pretty nice office that I have never used except to pick up Realtor Magazines. The small percentage of commissions that he keeps might cover some of his expenses.

 Crunch the numbers! If you're not getting a fair return on your investment in the company, get out of there.  If you feel like you need the stimulation of a large brokerage then find the biggest and give them a shot.  FIRST TALK TO YOUR BROKER TELL HIM WHAT YOU NEED!

He might make the decision for you.   good luck...

Sharron - I swear sometimes you can read my mind.... you always seem to ask questions that I'm thinking. It kinda freaks me out...

We've been pondering for quite some time going on our own. I'm with a C21 office, but it's pretty small as offices around here go -- about 20 agents.

I love my broker and he taught me a lot. But I grow weary of paying C21 a franchise fee and my broker a split. All I get for what I pay is sign installs, free printing (B&W only, no color) and... well, that's about it. I generate my own leads, and don't need the technology C21 offers.

I like the rocking chair test. I *have* to do this, or I will always be wondering, "what if"....

Sharron,

You have to ask yourself what am I getting in return for my split? Are you getting any ongoing training at all? Has your brokerage ever talked to you about your future plans? If not, you need to start searching for another company.

I prefer a franchise company over a independent for several reasons.

1) Training (Free)

2) Networking

3) Systems

4) Branding

Sharron, you beat me to the punch with this topic. I'm with a fairly large firm of 80+ agents but only 3 yrs old. Recently, I've had thoughts of going with a larger Franchised Co. Basically for 2 reasons...more Buyer's & Seller's. I don't get Company leads at all. Any comments out there regarding the big dog's. Do you feel you have more business BECAUSE of your BIG Company name & reputation? Thanks, Judy  

Hello, Judy, Sharon, Everyone,

I did a stint with C21(left their running). We were lead receivers(receptionists) instead of lead generators. What I mean is, what good is all those leads if you're not trained to qualify them properly. Many leads fell thru the cracks.

At KW we're constantly in training, constantly improving our game. You never know too much, you can always pick up knew things to put into practice.

As the old saying goes, " Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day, teach him how to fish and you feed him for a lifetime".

I actually had to go to C21 because there wasn't any KW in Westchester County at the time.

Once I read "The Millionaire Real Estate Agent" I knew I had to switch to KW.

By the way, everyone is invited to our training classes regardless where you hang your license. What other company does that?

How can you say No to what you don't Know?  Call today to Know more.

Alex

Another thing I've been told is that the large franchises charge a hefty franchise fee monthly. Not sure if any of you can comment on that.

You're all probably saying....Judy, get out and interview some other companies...well, it's easier and quicker to ask you guys. LOL

Thanks for your thoughts.

Judy

GMAC charges a 4% Franchise fee.