When I started my real estate career in late 2019, I had no way of knowing what lay ahead. Just two months in, COVID-19 hit, shaking the world—and the real estate industry—to its core. Coming from a decade of bartending and a background in film school, I had no experience with property ownership or running a business. On top of that, I didn’t have a single connection in the real estate world. It felt like I was diving headfirst into uncharted waters, trying to learn the ropes during one of the most unpredictable times of our generation.
My journey began at an independently owned brokerage, where I spent the first year and a half laying the foundation for my career. From there, I transitioned to eXp Realty—a decision that proved to be transformative. My business flourished, and I was honored to earn the prestigious eXp Icon Award within my first year.
With that momentum, I explored new opportunities and joined another brokerage. However, it soon became apparent that this new brokerage did not align with my goals, so I returned to eXp Realty within a year. Overall, here’s what I think every real estate agent should know when deciding which brokerage to join.
Why Choosing the Right Brokerage Matters
It’s an important decision for a simple reason: the brokerage you choose in real estate can significantly impact your career, no matter your stage. The right one offers the structure, resources, and support to help you grow as an agent and a business owner.
Brokerages that Invest in Innovation
When I first got into real estate, I thought success was all about networking and building relationships. And while those are still super important, I quickly realized how much technology can make a difference. At eXp Realty, I’ve gained access to advanced tools like KVCore, Chime, Sisu, and EXP World that keep me organized, responsive, and ready to deliver exceptional service. With 24/7 support from the eXp Are Desk and earning opportunities through stock options and agent attraction, eXp empowers agents to grow their business and future. Weekly market updates and training sessions help to keep me informed in this fast-changing industry.
Commission Splits: Understanding What Matters Most
Early in my career, commission splits felt like an abstract concept. It wasn’t until I closed my first few transactions that I truly understood their importance. The percentage of the split matters, but what’s even more important is the value and support you receive in return.
My advice for newer agents? Newer agents, mentorship, and training often outweigh the significance of a higher split. For more experienced agents, having access to scalable resources becomes the priority. From managing brokers to financial experts, having access to reliable guidance has been instrumental in building my business.
The Strength of a Supportive Network
Real estate is dynamic and unpredictable; every transaction presents unique challenges. That’s why being part of a brokerage with a robust support system is crucial. At eXp, I’ve never felt isolated. Whether I needed assistance navigating a complex deal or advice on compliance matters, someone was always willing to help. Their multi-layered support structure, which includes managing brokers, legal experts, and financial advisors, provides me with the support I need while allowing me to focus on delivering results for my clients.
Staying Competitive in a Fast-Paced Market
Real estate moves fast, and keeping up can sometimes feel like a full-time job. Market trends shift, legislation evolves, and compliance requirements are constantly changing. It can feel overwhelming, but staying informed makes all the difference.
For me, ongoing education and market updates have been key to my success, and I can thank eXp Realty for that. Learning about new trends, legislative changes, and compliance best practices has helped me navigate this fast-moving industry. Knowing these practical insights that I can apply directly to my business can make all the difference. They’ve allowed me to stay ahead of market shifts, anticipate challenges, and confidently adapt my strategies.
Advice for New Agents: Building a Strong Foundation
I still remember the steep learning curve when I started in real estate. Real estate school gave me the basics—like terminology, laws, and general concepts—but it didn’t fully prepare me for the fast-paced, real-world challenges. Negotiating contracts, finding and retaining clients, and juggling the complexities of transaction management were all skills I had to develop on the job. It was overwhelming at times, and I quickly realized how important it was to have the right support system.
At eXp, I developed my skills and confidence with the help of comprehensive training and mentorship. They broke the overwhelming aspects of the business into manageable steps, helping me navigate the challenges and build a sustainable career.
How Brokerages Impact Long-Term Success
The right brokerage can provide so much more than a place to work: it’s a partner that invests in your growth. From cutting-edge technology and competitive commission splits to industry-leading training and mentorship, the proper support can make all the difference in how far you go in real estate.
For me, eXp Realty has been that game-changing partner. They’ve given me the tools, guidance, and opportunities to navigate challenges and thrive in a competitive market. It’s a place that genuinely empowers agents to succeed, whether you’re just starting out or taking your career to the next level.
