Are you looking for the right place to grow your career? Finding a team that will meet your needs and help ensure that you’re happy in your career takes a bit of forethought. Whether you’re new to the industry or you’re simply ready for a change, there are some things to keep in mind. 

Here are a few factors you should consider when you’re searching for a real estate team to join… 

Team Structure

Do you like the idea of working with a boutique firm, or do you see yourself at a larger agency? There are benefits to both options.

If you opt for a smaller team, potential advantages include plenty of personal attention, closer work relationships, and the potential to solve problems creatively. There are often fewer strict policies in place, which means agents may enjoy a greater sense of flexibility and freedom.

In many cases, larger real estate teams can provide better brand recognition and access to more technology and human resources. Their processes are typically also well-established and time tested, which could contribute to your success.

Of course, it’s not just a team’s size that matters—it’s also the structure. What’s the balance of professionals like, and will it create a competitive environment? Who will you report to? How are leads distributed? These are all critical questions.

Interested in learning the ins and outs of joining a real estate team? We can help! Check out our latest post on the subject right here.

Commission Splits 

Many agents decide which team to join based solely on their potential pay. The truth is, the commission split that a team offers isn’t necessarily reflective of how much money you’ll take home. That’s because they often charge desk fees and other costs—so it’s important to weigh all relevant financial factors. 

Very few brokerages allow you to take one hundred per cent of your commission (and if you find one that does, you may want to look at whether the services they’ll offer you are sufficient). Some will do a 50/50 split, though many will offer you a higher percentage than they’ll take. 

The bottom line? Ask any team you’re thinking of joining about commissions, fees, and the types of services they offer in exchange.

Work Culture 

One of the things that attracts many new real estate agents to the field is the independence it affords. That said, joining a team isn’t the same as working alone. It means becoming part of a larger, pre-existing culture. 

If you’re hoping for support and learning opportunities, you’ll want to find a place that provides them. To do that, you’ll need to ask yourself the right questions. Are you looking for a mentor? Do you want to collaborate with your fellow agents? Does access to an impressive leadership team matter to you?

From the office setup to the frequency of meetings and social events, be sure to get a sense of the culture at any team you’re considering—and whether it aligns with your preferences.

Interested in learning more about Woolcott Real Estate—and what we have to offer our agents? Check out some of our team resources below:

• Meet Woolcott Real Estate
• The Woolcott Advantage

Marketing Support

Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in the industry for a while, maximum exposure among potential clients is key. The right team can help you get the word out. Some may have a dedicated marketing professional on staff and provide access to the latest technologies and tools. 

On the flip side, you may want to look into which aesthetic decisions you can make regarding your marketing. Some teams may have rigid rules about how you can present your services, which could be an issue if you have strong opinions on the subject. 

Brand Recognition

Speaking of exposure, brand recognition can be a big part of it. Put simply, we’re talking about whether the brokerage you’re associated with inspires trust in buyers and sellers. Are they known in the local community? Do they have a strong international reputation? These factors may be worth considering. 

Of course, it doesn’t make sense to make your decision based on brand recognition alone. Many smaller teams have a lot to offer—just make sure that if you choose one, they have the proven marketing support to give you the exposure you deserve. 

Making a Decision 

Just because a real estate team is successful doesn’t mean it’s right for you. That’s why it’s so important to explore your options and ask well-thought-out questions. Thinking carefully about what you want and your future goals is the first step towards finding the perfect place to grow your career! 

Think Woolcott Real Estate might be a good fit for you? Get in touch to learn more about joining us here.