Agents Regret Not Doing This…
When starting a real estate career, most new agents are focused on passing the exam, finding a brokerage, and hitting the ground running. But there’s one thing many agents admit later on: they regret not taking the time to choose the right team or brokerage.
In a fast‑moving industry like real estate, where you hang your license matters. It affects your training, your support, your leads, your culture—and ultimately, your success. If you want to avoid becoming one of those agents who look back with regret, here’s what you need to know before committing to a brokerage or team.
Interview Your Prospective Brokerage or Team 🤝
Most new agents think of joining a brokerage as being chosen. In reality, you should be doing the choosing.
When you interview with a brokerage or team, remember: you’re building a business. You’re making an investment of your time, energy, and income. Make sure they’re the right partner for you.
Ask questions like:
What training and mentorship programs do you offer?
What systems and tools are included in my fees or split?
How do you help new agents generate leads?
What does your team culture look like?
Pro Tip: Treat every interview like a two-way conversation. This is your career—you deserve to know how they’ll help you build it.
Identify How Your Investment Will Be Valuable to You
Every brokerage or team structure comes with some form of investment. Maybe it’s a commission split, desk fees, or marketing costs. But here’s the real question: what are you getting in return?
Top agents know that their business is built on value. When evaluating a brokerage, look for:
Lead generation opportunities
Administrative support (marketing, transaction coordination)
Coaching and accountability programs
CRM and tech tools that save time and boost productivity
Most of all CULTURE.
If you’re giving up part of your commission or paying monthly fees, that investment should come back to you in systems and support that help you grow faster in a community you thrive in.
Ensure Your Values and Goals Align
Real estate is more than a business—it’s a lifestyle. The culture of your brokerage or team will directly impact your day-to-day life. Ask yourself:
Do their values align with mine?
Does their mission inspire me?
Are they encouraging growth, collaboration, and integrity?
Why it matters: When you’re surrounded by people who share your values and push you to grow, success becomes much more attainable—and enjoyable.
Explore Programs and Resources They Offer
A brokerage isn’t just a place to hang your license. The right one is a growth engine.
Look for programs and resources such as:
Onboarding training and ongoing education
Marketing support and branded materials
Lead-generation platforms or referrals
Technology tools (CRM, transaction management)
Mentorship programs and collaboration opportunities
At Caldwell Group, for example, we’ve built a platform where agents can access world-class training, proven systems, and a team culture focused on elevating your career. We want every agent to feel confident that their investment here is worth it—and then some.
Conclusion
Most agents who look back with regret didn’t take the time to truly interview their prospective brokerage or team. Don’t make that mistake. Instead:
Ask the right questions.
Evaluate the return on your investment.
Make sure your values and goals align.
Ensure they have the programs and resources to help you thrive.
When you choose the right team, you set yourself up for success from day one.
If you’re ready to explore whether Caldwell Group is the right fit for you—and see how we can help you build a business you’re proud of—reach out today. Let’s talk about your goals.
