Posted by Charles on May 17, 2001 at 11:45:08:
Hi Bec,
I am a real estate agent in FL and you are right it is different than the typical employer/emplyee relationship. You will be an independent contractor and will be asked to sign a statement to that effect.
Where I am the brokers are constantly looking for agents even if they are not advertising. Just call some brokers that interest you and make an appointment. Keep in mind that while the broker is interviewing you, you are interviewing him. Have a list of questions and don’t be shy about asking them and noting the answers. Meet with several to get a comparison.
Some questions that would interest me would be:
What is the split? Is it graduated?
Are there any fees beyond the split such as desk fee, ad fee, franchise fee, etc.
What does the company pay for - do they pay for my adds either totally or in proportion to the split? Same for mls fees?
How are referals handled? How are incoming calls handled?
Am I required to sit up time? Caravan? (You may want to do these things, especially in the begining, but you don’t want to have to do them. In theory, as an independent contractor, he can’t tell you to do them, but that is in theory).
May I see the policy manual? (The broker may not want to show you this until you actual join because of proprietary reasons).
Is there a minimum production required?
Definately tell him you plan on investing and make sure there is nothing in his attitude or company policy that would prevent or impede it. (Any agent selling his own house must list it …).
I hope this helps. Good luck.
Charles