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Cheryle Brown-Williamson, Home staging in Orange & LA county, interior redes (Just the Right Touch Home Staging & Interior Redesign)

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Rainer
274,109
Curtis Evans
Cabin Realty LLC/ USA, Licensed in Louisiana - Golden Meadow, LA

If you really want to learn the business, go with a large firm that has good training programs. Later in life you will likely enjoy your own smaller firm where you have more control. This what I did and it works well with me. Keep in mind that not all agents and brokers are nice honest people. Never let that keep you from being a person of integrity. Strong moral values will always win out in the long run. 

 

 

Apr 15, 2017 03:22 AM
Rainmaker
5,278,877
Nina Hollander, Broker
Coldwell Banker Realty - Charlotte, NC
Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker

It depends on your personal needs and objectives and what the firms have to offer in terms of training and support.

Apr 15, 2017 05:09 AM
Rainmaker
4,714,495
Michael Jacobs
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena And Southern California 818.516.4393

Cheryle --- first, good luck with your examination.   As far as "hanging your license" -- that decision is a very personal one and should include interviewing with some different brokerages in your market.  Since you will be newly licensed ask each about their new agent training process and find the right fit for you.   Here's to a successful new career.   

Apr 15, 2017 03:15 AM
Rainmaker
2,229,059
Anthony Acosta - ALLATLANTAcondos.com
Harry Norman, REALTORS® - Atlanta, GA
Associate Broker

Cheryle, congratulations and good luck with your exam.  This is a very personal decision to make when choosing a broker. 

Apr 15, 2017 05:15 AM
Rainmaker
4,800,282
Gabe Sanders
Real Estate of Florida specializing in Martin County Residential Homes, Condos and Land Sales - Stuart, FL
Stuart Florida Real Estate

If you're new, go with the brokerage that is willing to train you.

Apr 15, 2017 05:13 AM
Rainer
352,976
Teri Pacitto
Compass - Westlake Village, CA
Real Estate, Your Style...Your Home...My Specialty

Interview with as many as you can and you will soon find out that big or small they will all try to get you in the door.  It's easy to hang your license in alomst any brokerage but first write out your plan, your goals and what you need to get from a brokerage.  Training and mentoring is key but as Ryan Huggins - Thousand Oaks, CA said in his comment even the big box names don't always have the best trained agents.  You can get lost in the crowd. Smaller shops often have better options but again, not a lot of training programs.  Check all the top local brokerages out on line.  You can learn a lot by checking them out on Google first.  Don't go with the first one that offers...gather info first then compare.  Ask a lot of questions after you have time to sit down and look at your options.  You are interviewing them and need to know their culture, their goals and what they have to offer now and what they are looking at for the future.  Best of luck.  

Apr 15, 2017 10:53 AM
Rainmaker
2,505,214
Bob "RealMan" Timm
Ward County Notary Services - Minot, ND
Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker

If I were to do it all over again I would narrow down my choices to 3 and ask each one if I could just sit and observe for a day before making up my mind Cheryle Brown-Williamson .

Apr 15, 2017 09:31 AM
Ambassador
5,151,115
Jeff Dowler, CRS
eXp Realty of California, Inc. - Carlsbad, CA
The Southern California Relocation Dude

It really comes down to what you are looking for, and the brokerage that will provide the training, mentoring, and culture you want and need. Take the time to intervew a number of places

Apr 15, 2017 07:03 AM
Rainmaker
5,243,444
Dorie Dillard Austin TX
Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899 - Austin, TX
NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones

Interview both..find the cultural that is a good fit. You will need training and lots of it! Be sure they have a good training program and mentors to help guide you!

Apr 15, 2017 04:46 AM
Ambassador
6,653,082
Bob Crane
Woodland Management Service / Woodland Real Estate, KW Diversified - Stevens Point, WI
Forestland Experts! 715-204-9671

Decide what you need, and interview several of them to determine who can provide this.

And get stats on their success rate with new agents.

Apr 15, 2017 05:25 AM
Rainmaker
564,544
Maria Sapio
Keller Williams of Central PA - Carlisle, PA
Real Estate Agent- Carlisle, PA. Mariasapio.com

I recommend interviewing several offices and asking about training and mentorship... Then follow your gut - it's not one size fits all.

Apr 15, 2017 04:23 AM
Rainmaker
1,284,981
Peter Mohylsky, Destin BeachPro
PMI. Destin - Miramar Beach, FL
Call me at 850-517-7098

Interview several offices and go for training or mentorship...Learning the business is your next challenge after getting your license. 

Apr 15, 2017 04:17 AM
Rainmaker
5,088,338
Richard Weeks
Dallas, TX
REALTOR®, Broker

I wanted to be with someone who specialized in working with investors.  Interview many and make the best decision you can.

Apr 15, 2017 07:04 AM
Rainmaker
3,627,372
James Dray
Fathom Realty - Bentonville, AR

Good luck on the exam.  Sometimes going with a large agency one gets lost in the shuffle of the office.  Take time to interview a few both large and not so large agencies.  Ask about training and commission splits, almost always for a new agent the split is just not worth it if the training is not there.

Apr 15, 2017 04:01 AM
Rainmaker
754,894
Lynnea Miller
Bend Premier Real Estate - Bend, OR
Premier Real Estate Service in Central Oregon

Anytime a new agent asks me about where they should go, I tell them the following:

1. Does the brokerage have a non-competing Broker who is available to answer questions rather than working their own business?

2. Does the brokerage offer training and support to assist you in learning the ropes of being a good agent?

3. Does the brokerage offer opportunities for you to get business? How are internet leads distributed? What about floor and open house opportunities?

4. What is the cost of the brokerage? Can you afford it?

Ultimately the choice is yours, but I highly recommend interviewing a number of brokerages to see if the fit works for you - and of course, if you fit within the brokerage's needs as well. 

Apr 15, 2017 01:44 PM
Ambassador
5,459,686
Debe Maxwell, CRS
Savvy + Company (704) 491-3310 - Charlotte, NC
The RIGHT CHARLOTTE REALTOR!

This is definitely a personal decision.  Best of luck on your exam!

Apr 15, 2017 11:00 AM
Rainmaker
1,534,214
Ryan Huggins - Thousand Oaks, CA
https://HugginsHomes.com - Thousand Oaks, CA
Residential Real Estate and Investment Properties

If you're taking your exam, I'd recommend a company with a good training and mentoring program.  The big boxes don't always have that.  I had to train and mentor a Keller Williams agent when she bought one of my listings.  Her "coach" was useless/MIA.

Apr 15, 2017 10:18 AM
Rainmaker
1,525,616
Sybil Campbell
Fernandina Beach, FL
Referral Agent Amelia Island Florida

I originally hung my license with Watson Real Estate Corporation in Florida because they had good training for new agents.  When I moved to Virginia, it took a couple of offices to get it right.  I chose Long and Foster because of the managing broker and agents.  There is a lot of help and support from the office staff here.  Make sure you ask what all of your costs will be as well.

Apr 15, 2017 08:58 AM
Rainmaker
2,837,762
Richie Alan Naggar
people first...then business Ran Right Realty - Riverside, CA
agent & author

Any choice is a win....play to win

Apr 15, 2017 08:00 AM
Ambassador
3,418,387
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist
KD Realty - 408.972.1822 - San Jose, CA
Probate Real Estate Services

I am with Michael Jacobs here - this is a very personal decision and choice. What are your needs. What will fit best for you?  I wish you all the best on the exam and with your career.

Apr 15, 2017 07:56 AM
Ambassador
2,296,848
Carol Williams
Although I'm retired, I love sharing my knowledge and learning from other real estate industry professionals. - Wenatchee, WA
Retired Agent / Broker / Prop. Mgr, Wenatchee, WA

As a new agent, training, support and mentorship are going to be the most important factors for you.  Whether that is with a boutique or large franchise depends on the leadership of the offices in your area.    You may get more personal attention at the smaller boutique but you get more interaction with veteran agents at a larger office.  Or not.   As I said, it all depends on what is available in your market area.  

Apr 15, 2017 07:51 AM
Rainmaker
138,887
Kelly Turbeville
Keller Williams - Lake Forest, CA
Turning Real Estate Dreams into Reality

I recommend visiting atleast three, attend a sales meeting.  Being a new agent training, mentoring and access to resources is very important.  But the intangible feel and energy of the office is very important as well.

 

Apr 15, 2017 07:47 AM
Rainmaker
5,451,587
Wayne Martin
Wayne M Martin - Oswego, IL
Real Estate Broker - Retired

Visit with the managing broker. See what there program is. Does it meet your needs? Do you feel the chemistry?

Apr 15, 2017 07:21 AM
Rainmaker
809,308
Kasey & John Boles
Jon Gosche Real Estate, LLC - BoiseMeridianRealEstate.com - Boise, ID
Boise & Meridian, ID Ada/Canyon/Gem/Boise Counties

It is such a personal choice.  Some swear by franchise brokers and want the big name behind them.  Others swear by independents. Some what education.  Others want zero commission split.  Some need brokers to provide leads, others want to be left alone to do their own marketing and lead generation.  What do YOU want/need?  That will help you decide which would be best for you. -Kasey

Apr 15, 2017 07:09 AM
Rainmaker
5,774,084
Ron and Alexandra Seigel
Napa Consultants - Carpinteria, CA
Luxury Real Estate Branding, Marketing & Strategy

Cheryle,

It really depends on you and how you like to learn and feel comfortable with.  It has to fit who you are.  A

Apr 15, 2017 06:29 AM
Rainmaker
1,231,853
Mary Yonkers
Alan Kells School of Real Estate/Howard Hanna Real Estate - Erie, PA
Erie/PA Real Estate Instructor

Interview with a few brokers in your area.  Keep in mind that it is two-way stree, you are interviewing them as they are interviewing you.  Focus on training & support offered.  Some brokers are only interested in how much $$ you can earn for them w/o helping you learn how to make $$$

Apr 15, 2017 06:04 AM
Rainmaker
8,115,287
Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

Select the office that will best meet your personal needs.

I like to be in the company of many highly successful agents at the office.

Apr 15, 2017 05:41 AM
Rainmaker
1,610,281
Thomas J. Nelson, REALTOR ® CRS,ABR,PSA,RCS-D, ePRO
Big Block Realty 858.232.8722 - La Jolla, CA
Serving Coastal San Diego, Veteran's & Seniors

When I was new, I hung it where my Mom's office was.

When I relocated, I chose a broker who fit the model that I was leaving.

I'm with the broker I'm with now because they allow me to operate my business as an independent office and entrepreneur.

For you being new, KW or CB (Coldwell Banker) has great training and support, I'd start there and then grow wings.

Apr 15, 2017 05:38 AM
Rainmaker
151,733
Julie Larson Realtor® Sarasota FL 941-284-9826
White Sands Realty Group FL | 941-284-9826 | Serving Sarasota, Manatee & Charlotte Counties - Sarasota, FL
When you're thinking of moving...ThinkSuncoast.com

I hung mine with KW for the first 2 years because of their fabulous training. I capped both of those years at KW and liked getting the 100% commission. So, I switched to a 100% commission broker and love it. I still love learning and now have all kinds of resources to continue my education.

Apr 15, 2017 05:23 AM
Rainmaker
921,504
Annette Lawrence , Palm Harbor, FL 727-420-4041
ReMax Realtec Group - Palm Harbor, FL
Making FLORIDA Real Estate EZ

How do you decide?

When you have need to buy apparel, what do you do? In the end you  must choose the garment that FITS. Really, does anything else matter?

Your selection of broker is equally OBJECTIVE. The problem is, no one offers a means to MEASURE the broker. The suggestion is one you trust, good rapport, offer training, things a newbie can not measure. Let me put an end to that.

There are only two questions to which you need a response from the broker. Their response will allow you to measure if the broker has effective training, compensation, culture, systems, support and market share.

The 'allure' of train'n is the gateway drug to real estate agent failure.

90% of newbies never see their 2nd year anniversary. This has been true for decades, and the industry continues to sell train'n as a solution.

HOWEVER, like anyone wanting to start a new business, the owner must have a business plan. If you have no idea what your business really is, (that is what a plan does) you have no hope of finding the broker who can be beneficial to your future success.

I wish you the best of success.

Apr 15, 2017 05:20 AM
Rainmaker
1,392,883
Wayne Zuhl
Remax First Realty II - Cranford, NJ
The Last Name You'll Ever Need in Real Estate

We chose a small mom-and-pop shop with a broader network called Leading RE. The small office lets us offer a more personal touch to our clients and the larger network lets us provide the benefits of a larger office.

Apr 15, 2017 04:34 AM
Rainmaker
3,344,751
Sally K. & David L. Hanson
EXP Realty 414-525-0563 - Brookfield, WI
WI Real Estate Agents - Luxury - Divorce

If you are new....decide what makes you comfortable and puts you in the best place to learn...if the brokerage has a mentoring program...climb  aboard !

Apr 15, 2017 04:19 AM
Rainmaker
1,713,581
Joe Pryor
The Virtual Real Estate Team - Oklahoma City, OK
REALTOR® - Oklahoma Investment Properties

It's like you buyers, some want to be outside of town on a careage and some want to be in the middle of things. Choose what fits your personality, nature, and support.

Apr 15, 2017 04:12 AM
Rainmaker
142,796
Diana White-Pettis
Bennett Realty Solutions - Upper Marlboro, MD
GRI, CDPE, CNE, WHC Upper Marlboro Homes for Sale

Congratulations and much success on your exam. Interview several offices, preferably large offices with great coaching, training and mentorship programs.

Apr 16, 2017 11:24 AM
Rainmaker
1,027,657
Susan Haughton
Long and Foster REALTORS (703) 470-4545 - Alexandria, VA
Susan & Mindy Team...Honesty. Integrity. Results.

It depends on your individual situation and your market.  I went with a well known brokerage who was dominant in my area because I wanted to leverage their brand since I was new to the area and new to real estate.  They also offered training pretty much every day of the week, which was huge, as well as a mentor program, which I think is absolutely invaluable to a new agent. 

I ended up staying because of the support and the commission plans (yes, they have multiple plans for every single scenario).  I have yet to find a reason to leave.  Best of luck to you!

Apr 16, 2017 08:39 AM
Rainmaker
4,273,331
Paul S. Henderson, REALTOR®, CRS
Fathom Realty Washington LLC - Tacoma, WA
South Puget Sound Washington Agent/Broker!

I made a course correction after 7 years. If the fit isn't right or changes; leave!

Apr 15, 2017 09:54 PM
Ambassador
3,652,619
Anna "Banana" Kruchten
HomeSmart Real Estate - Phoenix, AZ
602-380-4886

Cheryle it really depends on you and what style works better for you - smaller more intimate group or large big company.  There are some fabulous small brokers that train their agents really well. And of course the big brokers typically have good programs as well.  Good Luck!

Apr 15, 2017 05:23 PM
Rainer
259,105
Mick Michaud
Distinctly Texas Lifestyle Properties, LLC Office:682/498-3107 - Granbury, TX
Your Texas Lifestyle is Here!

Go where you can grow for this stage in your career.  A big office can help, but the best thing is to get a true mentor.  And those are where you find them.

Apr 15, 2017 08:53 AM
Rainmaker
1,748,777
Sandy Padula & Norm Padula, JD, GRI
HomeSmart Realty West & Florida Realty Investments - , CA
Presence, Persistence & Perseverance

It depends on so many factors. Too many to answer here in Q & A

Apr 15, 2017 08:16 AM
Rainmaker
1,466,257
Michael Setunsky
Woodbridge, VA
Your Commercial Real Estate Link to Northern VA

Cheryle Brown-Williamson Big and little companies have their advantages and disadvantages. I would recommend you talk to several brokers and go with one you have a good rapport with and who has a good mentoring and training. Good luck with the exam.

Apr 15, 2017 07:18 AM
Rainer
10,346
Cheryle Brown-Williamson
Just the Right Touch Home Staging & Interior Redesign - Anaheim, CA
Home staging in Orange & LA county, interior redes

Thank you to all. As I interview all this week as I had a few already, I have narrowed it down to KW and their great training & a cute small brokerage on the water with boats to take clients on rides of the harbor. Decisions...decisions!

Apr 15, 2017 06:42 AM
Rainmaker
1,157,841
FN LN
Toronto, ON

I looked at the services provided and did a cost analysis.

Apr 15, 2017 06:38 AM
Rainmaker
3,416,322
Scott Godzyk
Godzyk Real Estate Services - Manchester, NH
One of the Manchester NH's area Leading Agents

I like the small hands on brokers rather than the warehouse feel of 300 plus agents in a business. Many get lost when it is too big. 

Apr 15, 2017 05:48 AM
Rainmaker
3,074,289
Tony and Suzanne Marriott, Associate Brokers
Serving the Greater Phoenix and Scottsdale Metropolitan Area - Scottsdale, AZ
Coldwell Banker Realty

Curtis Evans nailed this one!

Apr 15, 2017 05:20 AM
Rainmaker
1,618,024
Harry F. D'Elia III
WEDO Real Estate and Beyond, LLC - Phoenix, AZ
Investor , Mentor, GRI, Radio, CIPS, REOs, ABR

best to you in your new career

Apr 15, 2017 05:18 AM
Rainmaker
4,434,227
Gita Bantwal
RE/MAX Centre Realtors - Warwick, PA
REALTOR,ABR,CRS,SRES,GRI - Bucks County & Philadel

Good luck.

Jun 26, 2017 03:27 AM
Rainer
177,646
Cheryl Dukes . . . . . Intown Atlanta
Guaranteed Offer for your Home - eXp realty - Atlanta, GA

I've never worked for Keller Williams. But I hear they have a good training program and it might be a good idea to get that foundation in place before venturing off to a boutique firm. Of course their fees might be higher, so that's something you will have to weigh in making your decision. Good luck with the exam and your new career!

Apr 18, 2017 05:12 PM
Rainmaker
5,171,746
Will Hamm
Hamm Homes - Aurora, CO
"Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"

Come to Denver, and I will give you a great deal.

 

Apr 17, 2017 05:13 PM
Rainer
178,060
Dr. Karen Lewis, Broker 954-2489149
Align Right Realty K1 Group - Fort Lauderdale, FL
No Compromise When it Comes to Our Clients!

When I first started, I went with a large company because I thought working with a large company was the thing to do.  Nowadays, you can go with any company you want to and still succeed.  Major companies have great training but the good news is most of the boards have great training that is free..Find a company where the chemistry mixes with you.  I am high energy so I can't work with a lot of laid back people.  Would love to have you follow me because a lot of my posts will be to agents who are just starting out.  

Apr 17, 2017 04:50 PM
Rainmaker
5,981,047
Joan Cox
House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate - 720-231-6373 - Denver, CO
Denver Real Estate - Selling One Home at a Time

Interview many brokers to see what they have to say, make a list of things that are important to you.  Training is a biggie! 

Apr 17, 2017 11:34 AM
Rainmaker
1,645,871
Inna Ivchenko
Barcode Properties - Encino, CA
Realtor® • GRI • HAFA • PSC • Short Sale • Probate

I just took an offer from the closest to me. What was a big mistake. Interview all brokers you like, visit offices personally, create a chart of cons and pros of each. Good luck. 

Apr 16, 2017 07:56 PM
Ambassador
2,703,227
Fred Griffin Florida Real Estate
Fred Griffin Real Estate - Tallahassee, FL
Licensed Florida Real Estate Broker

Look for training, for mentors, for a broker that you like.

Apr 16, 2017 07:40 PM
Rainmaker
97,259
Robert Newman
Inbound Real Estate Marketing L.L.C. - Buffalo, WY
Creating Enduring Online Marketing Results

Cheryle, I am NOT a realtor. I have started 8 small business and worked commission only BY CHOICE most of my life. I have DIFFERENT advice that the comments I read. 

 

I believe that before you select a broker you need to figure out your business plan. Part of this plan will include marketing strategies and HOW you intend to promote your new real estate business can GREATLY affect what broker you work for. KW will provide a decent website for free and you can blog and expect to get leads from the tools they provide. RE-Max has a corporate agreement in place with Tom Ferry who like his father trains on traditional approaches and occasionally even touches on some non-traditional approaches.

I would try to understand HOW I am going to generate sales BEFORE selecting a broker. Door Knocking? Expired listings cold calling? Sitting in an office and waiting for walk in's? Friends and family? 

Figure out the marketing/business plan and the brokerage that will fit your now much more clearly defined needs will be clearer. IE: 

 

If you have a HUGE circle of friends and family who are likely to use you once you inform them of your new career why give away your commission? You should look at 100% commission arrangement. That narrows your list. 

 

If you have NO idea how to run,start or even use the internet to research marketing plans then you should start with someone like KW that will step you through being a business owner. 

If you want to take my advice. Here is a good place to start.

 

https://placester.com/real-estate-marketing-academy/real-estate-business-plan-template/

 

 

Apr 16, 2017 05:45 AM
Ambassador
2,559,289
Kat Palmiotti
eXp Commercial, Referral Divison - Kalispell, MT
Helping your Montana dreams take root

There are a lot of great suggestions here. I would just say to take your time and interview a bunch before deciding. Also, when you find a brokerage you are seriously considering, call up a few agents and ask them questions about what is important to you. And I would pick an agent with a lot of business and one without (you might be able to see that information on MLS). You can get both perspectives on how the office supports agents.

Apr 16, 2017 03:04 AM
Rainmaker
4,321,985
Praful Thakkar
LAER Realty Partners - Burlington, MA
Metro Boston Homes For Sale

Cheryle Brown-Williamson - when I did it for the first time, I had no clue!

And when I understood the 'whole picture' it is KW!

Apr 15, 2017 11:33 PM
Rainmaker
3,986,423
William Feela
WHISPERING PINES REALTY - North Branch, MN
Realtor, Whispering Pines Realty 651-674-5999 No.

I wanted a small company and then when I started my own I stayed small

Apr 15, 2017 07:42 PM
Rainmaker
3,988,138
Debbie Reynolds, C21 Platinum Properties
Platinum Properties- (931)771-9070 - Clarksville, TN
The Dedicated Clarksville TN Realtor-(931)320-6730

It depends on you and what is important to you. Training should be high on your list and also support and reputation of the company.

Apr 15, 2017 07:41 PM
Rainer
509,499
Susie Kay
Ultra Real Estate Dallas Fort Worth - Plano, TX
North Dallas Specialist

Interview the brokers AND the agents under each brokerages.  Find out what's important to you and see whether the brokers provide that. Find out what the agents like and dislike under their brokers. I hope this helps!

Apr 15, 2017 06:10 PM