Are You & Your Brokerage Still a Match?

In real estate, switching brokerages isn’t just about compensation; it’s about alignment. Culture, leadership, support, and long-term growth matter just as much (if not more) than your split. Whether you're considering a move or want to gut-check your current fit, here’s a no-fluff checklist to help you make the right call for your business and your peace of mind.

It’s common for agents to experience a temporary dip in business during the first few months after switching brokerages. It’s often reported that agents feel overpromised and underdelivered when it comes to the support and benefits pitched during the recruiting process. So before you make a move, get crystal clear. Ask better questions. Get it in writing. And don’t just chase a lower split, build a higher standard.

Start With You: Reflect Before You Redirect

Before you start comparing splits, systems, and support, pause and get honest with yourself:

• What am I looking for that I am not getting from my current brokerage? 
• Is my growth being actively nurtured? 
• Do I feel proud to “wear” the brand?
• Are my values aligned with the company’s values?
• Am I learning from people I respect and want to grow alongside?
• Do I feel seen, supported, and celebrated by leadership?

Now go deeper:

• If my business isn’t where I want it to be, is that a reflection of my own habits, my environment, or both?
• If I don’t have clients right now, what am I doing to generate them?
• Would switching brokerages solve the root of the challenge I’m facing?
• Have I asked for what I need at my current brokerage, and given them a chance to deliver?
• Do I feel like I’m building a sustainable business, or just trying to survive month to month?
• Am I showing up like the agent I want to be?

This isn’t about self-blame, it’s about clarity. If the answer is “I’m doing the work, and I’m still not getting what I need,” that’s worth listening to. But if the answer is, “I haven’t really tried, or asked, or owned my path yet,” changing brokerages won’t fix that.

Then Dig Into the Dollars (and Sense)

• Beyond the split, what are the true take-home economics once I factor in:
  • Monthly/transaction fees?
  • Cost of tools, training, and marketing support?
  • Paid vs. included services (CRM, Brand Marketing, Listing Marketing, Training, etc)
• Am I trading long-term stability for short-term benefits (such as a bonus or a higher split)?
• Would my business thrive more with the systems, people, and support I have—or elsewhere?
• How much will I be paying for leads, marketing creation, marketing support, admin, and transaction support? 

Ask About the Experience—Not Just the Expense

• What happens to my listings, contracts, and CRM if I leave?
• Is this brokerage proactive about coaching, community, and collaboration?
• How are agents recognized, rewarded, and retained here?
• Will I be one of many, or part of something meaningful?

Plan Before You Leap

If you are moving, prep like a pro to make it easier on all involved, especially your clients!:

• Back up your reviews, contacts, and files
• Make a list of tools tied to your current brokerage (Mailing lists, Contract Software, Email Marketing, Social Media, etc)
• Update your voicemail, bios, social links, and email signature
• Be transparent with your current brokerage leadership. 
• Leave all proprietary information behind. 

And Finally… Stay Classy

As we all know, the local real estate sandbox can feel very small. Be sure to leave on good terms. Lead with gratitude, make it personal, and never burn bridges.