Maybe it’s time for a change in your real estate career path. If you’re reading this, it’s likely because you’re contemplating a departure from your current brokerage to explore new opportunities in the industry. So, you might be asking yourself, “How do I broach the topic of leaving with my real estate broker?”

Alternatively, you could be considering a shift away from the real estate profession altogether in search of a fresh career direction. According to the National Association of Realtors, most realtors spend approximately three years with a broker before moving on.

So, whether you’re wondering about the best approach to inform your real estate broker about your impending departure or even considering the prospect of a career change, this post aims to provide you with guidance on the proper preparation for leaving your current brokerage and effectively communicating your decision to your real estate broker.

What Is a Real Estate Broker?

A real estate broker is a central figure within the real estate industry, playing a crucial role in facilitating property transactions. Essentially, a real estate broker is a licensed professional who serves as an intermediary between buyers and sellers of real estate properties. Unlike real estate agents, who work under the supervision of a broker, brokers have undergone additional education and licensure requirements, allowing them to operate independently and often manage their own real estate firms.

One of the primary responsibilities of a real estate broker is to oversee and guide the activities of real estate agents working under their brokerage. They provide mentorship, support, and training to these agents, ensuring they adhere to legal and ethical standards while conducting property transactions. Additionally, brokers often handle more complex and high-value property transactions themselves, drawing on their expertise and experience to negotiate favorable deals for their clients.

Is It Really Time to Leave?

Real estate professionals embark on new career paths by parting ways with their current brokers for various compelling reasons. Oftentimes, it’s a matter of financial considerations, where agents seek better compensation packages that align more favorably with their hard-earned commissions. Alternatively, agents may feel they’ve outgrown their existing brokerage, craving an environment that better nurtures their growth and ambitions. At times, the initial choice of a sponsoring broker might not have been the best fit, leading to a mismatch in expectations and objectives.

Before taking the decisive step of departure, it’s prudent to engage in an introspective evaluation of your present brokerage situation. By honestly assessing the dynamics at play within your current professional home, you can pinpoint the specific sources of dissatisfaction and areas in need of improvement. It’s worth noting that some of these issues may be amenable to resolution through open dialogue and negotiation. For instance, if a more favorable commission split is your goal, many real estate brokers are willing to engage in discussions to restructure the terms, particularly when dealing with highly productive and successful agents.

In fact, it’s a testament to the industry’s preference for retaining experienced and skilled talent over frequent recruitment efforts. Real estate brokers, as a rule, place a premium on retaining their established agents, recognizing the value of their experience, client networks, and contributions to the brokerage’s success. Ultimately, fostering an environment where agents can thrive and achieve their professional goals remains a priority for most real estate brokerage firms, making it worth exploring opportunities for improvement and mutual benefit before considering a departure.

When It’s Time to Move On:

Conversely, when you’ve outgrown your real estate broker, it’s time to transition to a more fitting arrangement. This evolution often occurs as agents move from teams to pursue independent paths or when newcomers establish themselves within the industry. As agents mature in their careers, they gradually build their own networks, databases, and teams, rendering some of the initial tools and support offered by their broker less essential. Consequently, they might find themselves burdened by high brokerage fees and seek brokers with capped fees or more advantageous commission splits.

I personally encountered this scenario when I aspired to scale my real estate business. My income growth was constrained by time limitations, leading me to explore two options: building a dedicated team or adopting an alternative business model, such as the Exit formula, to diversify income streams. Additionally, some agents initially find themselves at unsuitable brokerages, where promised support falls short of expectations. Numerous real estate professionals who’ve joined Exit Realty, for instance, share analogous experiences of starting their careers at less supportive brokerages.

How to Tell Your Real Estate Broker You Are Leaving?

Initiating a conversation about leaving your current real estate broker requires careful consideration and a well-thought-out approach. This conversation can have a profound impact on your career and professional relationships, so it’s essential to handle it with care and professionalism. It involves several key steps and considerations.

Preparing for the Conversation:

Before you approach your broker with your decision to leave, thorough preparation is crucial. Begin by reviewing your motivations for making this change. Identify the specific factors that have led you to this decision. Is it a matter of seeking better opportunities, pursuing a different career direction, or addressing certain concerns within your current brokerage? Having a clear understanding of your own reasons will be invaluable during the conversation.

Additionally, gather all the necessary documentation and information related to your current arrangement with the brokerage. This may include your contract, commission splits, and any contractual obligations or non-compete clauses. Being well-prepared not only demonstrates your professionalism but also ensures that you are equipped to address any questions or concerns that may arise during the discussion.

Be Respectful:

Respect should underpin every aspect of your interaction with your broker during this process. Regardless of your reasons for leaving, remember that your broker is a fellow professional in the real estate industry. Approach the conversation with the same level of professionalism and courtesy that you would expect in return. Being respectful in your communication can help maintain a positive reputation and open doors for potential future collaborations.

Be Clear:

Clarity is essential when conveying your decision to leave. Avoid vague or ambiguous statements that may lead to misunderstandings. Instead, clearly articulate your intentions and reasons for departing. Whether you’re seeking better growth opportunities, a more supportive work environment, or a change in career direction, being straightforward and specific in your explanation will help your broker understand your perspective.

Be Honest:

Honesty is the bedrock of a productive conversation. While it may be challenging to discuss your departure, it’s crucial to be forthright about your reasons. Share your genuine motivations, concerns, and aspirations that have led you to this decision. Being transparent not only builds trust but also ensures that both you and your broker have a clear understanding of the situation.

Listen to Their Feedback:

In any dialogue, it’s important to be receptive to feedback and alternative perspectives. Your broker may have insights, suggestions, or concerns that you hadn’t considered. Actively listening to their feedback demonstrates your professionalism and willingness to engage in a constructive dialogue. Their input may also help you refine your plans or address any potential issues more effectively.

Be Prepared to Ask and Answer Questions:

Anticipate that your broker will likely have questions and concerns regarding your departure. Be ready to provide detailed answers and explanations. Prepare to address inquiries about the transition process, outstanding matters, or any contractual obligations. Additionally, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the logistics of your departure, such as the timeline and any necessary documentation or procedures.

Be Open to Negotiation:

In some cases, your broker may express a desire to retain you as an agent. Be open to negotiation if you are willing to explore alternative arrangements. This could involve discussions about commission splits, contractual terms, or other aspects of your partnership. A willingness to engage in productive negotiations can lead to mutually beneficial outcomes and preserve positive relationships.

Collect Client Data:

As you plan your departure, take proactive steps to collect and organize all relevant client data and documents. This includes client contact information, transaction records, and details about ongoing deals. Ensuring a smooth transition for your clients is paramount to maintaining their trust and relationships during this period of change. By responsibly managing client data, you can facilitate the transfer of responsibilities to your new brokerage or arrangements, minimizing disruptions for your clients.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Should I inform my clients about my decision to leave my current real estate broker?
Yes, it’s generally a good practice to inform your clients about your transition to a new brokerage. Transparency helps maintain trust, and it allows your clients to make informed decisions about their ongoing real estate transactions.

What steps can I take to ensure a smooth transition for my clients during the brokerage change?
Aside from informing your clients, you can work closely with your new brokerage to facilitate a seamless transition. Ensure that your client data and transaction information are transferred smoothly, and introduce your clients to your new team or point of contact at the new brokerage.

Are there any tax implications I should be aware of when changing brokerages?
Depending on your location and the specific circumstances of your departure, there may be tax implications related to commissions, fees, or business expenses. It’s advisable to consult with a tax professional to understand the tax implications of your transition.

What should I do if my current broker is uncooperative or resistant to my departure?
If you encounter difficulties with your current broker during the transition process, consider seeking legal advice. An attorney experienced in real estate matters can provide guidance on how to navigate any legal challenges that may arise.

Is it possible to take my listings with me to my new brokerage?
The ability to transfer listings to your new brokerage may depend on your contractual agreement with your current broker. Review your contract to determine whether you have the right to take your listings or if there are specific conditions that apply.

Can I maintain contact with clients I’ve acquired during my tenure with my previous brokerage?
Staying in touch with past clients is essential for building a robust real estate business. However, it’s essential to review any non-compete or non-solicitation clauses in your contract to ensure you comply with legal obligations while maintaining client relationships.