While people hire the agent and not the firm, first, before I joined RE/MAX I used to lose business to RE/MAX agents all the time because sellers believed that the company's world-wide reach was important for their marketing. Once I joined RE/MAX, I stopped losing business for that reason.

People hire the agent, not the brokerage.  I don't think people care about a name brand brokerage. 

Remax or BumbleAlong Team LLC.

Which would instill the greatest confidence in you?

People hire an individual, not a franchise. That said, franchises spend a lot to develop their brand and influence people's perceptions.

In the luxury market in San Diego yes

Can't answer that question, I do not work for a franchise.

My client could care less if I am with a big box company or not, it is the service I provide, not the company.

No.  Even Gary Keller says it is the agent not the brokerage.

Some feel secure in thinking that you have the backing of the big company behind you, others know that it is just a marketing thing and all agents are very independent.

Some people do want an establised brokerage with name and brand recognition.

A strong franchise like RE/MAX and a very professonl office do give an advantage to the agents.

BILL CHERRY I worked for a franchise that dominated market share in the area. Clients came to us because we had our signs everywhere.

The company is all about perceptions. The individual agent is about delivering the good or services.

I've worked in both situations....and I never, ever had a problem with working for a "mom and pop" office.... we were actually the most productive office in the mls database....  

I don't think so.  If they do I never see them anyway

Some might --- I haven't had that discussion with clients.  

Some do hire a national franchise for the name, some of those soon learn a lesson,  that just because they are big, does not mean all their agents are good. 

I think when you are just starting out, it might direct referrals to you from other areas of the country that "recognize" your name brand. But once established, usually your clients will follow you wherever you hang your license.

It never really comes up

Treat people the right way and they will care less about about the Company. They remember me, not a big box outfit.

I agree with the comment that people hire the agent. 

Good morning Bill. Certainly not on the mortgage side, between my referral based business and blogging efforts, I have no shortage of business.

Each client has their own opinions.

In the luxury market here it is an asset. I can't say I know it is a necessity but it does give me an advantage.

BILL CHERRY - working with Franchise does give a reason to be supported by the big name - however, it's just me! Clients don't care who I work for, almost everytime.

Absolutely not.

Bill,

It depends on the market place, and it depends on your reputation and your track record.  Stats show that if they liked their agents , they will use them again regardless of their company brand, but there are exceptions to this.  A

I find my clients do not care one way or another. They are looking to me to deliver good service not my company.

No. They hire me.

I'm not but used to be.  And the answer is aboslutely no.