Learn the different real estate team pros and cons before deciding whether to join a team or even what type of team to join.
Deciding whether to join a real estate team can be a pivotal moment in your career. It’s a question I’ve been asked countless times during my decades of experience managing thousands of agents across multiple brokerages. While there’s no definitive answer—as every agent and team is different—laying out the pros and cons can help you make an informed decision. Let’s explore both sides.
Listen to this episode on The Brian Icenhower Podcast.
VIDEO: Real Estate Team Pros and Cons – Should I Join One?
The Cons of Joining a Real Estate Team
Loss of Control and Accountability
Joining a successful real estate team often means giving up some control over your business. You’ll likely be expected to follow the team’s systems, including lead generation, administrative processes, training sessions, and team meetings. While this structure can provide much-needed accountability, it may feel restrictive if you value complete independence. Some agents enter the field to escape being managed, and a team’s structured approach might not align with their goals.
Reduced Commission Splits
Another drawback is the reduced commission split. Teams need to cover expenses such as marketing, administrative support, and team leader compensation. While a team offering a 50% split might provide leads and inside sales support, a team offering a 70% split may provide fewer resources. It’s essential to evaluate what services and benefits you’re getting in exchange for the reduced commission.
Potential for Misaligned Culture
Team culture plays a significant role in your experience. A mismatched culture can lead to dissatisfaction, whether it’s a team with stringent daily requirements or one with extensive social events that don’t fit your personality. Before committing, spend time understanding the team’s dynamics and whether they align with your preferences and work style.
Loss of Personal Identity
Some agents worry about building their team leader’s brand instead of their own. Marketing materials and recognition might focus more on the team than on individual agents. However, not all teams operate this way. Look for teams that encourage agents to build their personal brands within the team’s framework, allowing for both individual growth and team success.
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Team Coaching Program
The Team Real Estate Coaching Program is for smaller teams looking for internal structure, leverage and leadership.
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1×1 Solo Agent Weekly Coaching Program
This 1×1 Solo Agent Weekly Real Estate Coaching Program designed to help you increase your production and your commission income with strategies and systems for sustainable business growth.
The Pros of Joining a Real Estate Team
Instant Credibility
For new agents, joining a well-established team can provide instant credibility. Being associated with a reputable team leader or brand can ease concerns from potential clients about your lack of experience. You’ll also benefit from leveraging the team’s success, showcasing “just listed” and “just sold” properties on social media, which can make you appear more experienced than you are.
Leads and Income Stability
Generating leads is one of the most challenging aspects of real estate, particularly for new agents. Teams often provide a steady stream of leads, helping you bridge the gap between earning your license and closing your first deal. This support can significantly reduce the time it takes to earn a commission check, offering financial stability while you build your client base.
Administrative Support
Real estate involves a lot of paperwork and logistics. Teams with dedicated administrative staff—such as transaction coordinators and marketing directors—allow agents to focus on income-generating activities like lead generation and client interactions. This support can improve your work-life balance and help you scale your business more efficiently.
Built-in Accountability
While accountability might feel restrictive to some, it’s a significant benefit for those who struggle with self-discipline. A good team will hold you accountable for meeting your goals, whether through regular check-ins, training sessions, or activity tracking. This level of support can be invaluable, especially for new agents who are still building good habits.
Shared Resources
Teams often provide access to shared resources, such as customer relationship management (CRM) systems, marketing materials, and experienced mentors. Working alongside seasoned agents and learning from their successes and failures can accelerate your growth. The collaborative environment of a team fosters faster learning and better outcomes.
Training, Coaching, and Mentoring
Real estate is an ever-evolving industry, and navigating its complexities alone can be daunting. Teams often offer robust training programs, covering everything from lead generation and listing presentations to handling market fluctuations and industry disruptions. Having access to mentors and coaches invested in your success ensures you’re well-prepared for any challenges that come your way.
Joining a real estate team can be a game-changer for some agents and a less favorable choice for others. By carefully weighing the pros and cons, you can make a decision that aligns with your career goals and personal preferences.
Brian Icenhower
How to Decide if a Team is Right for You
The decision to join a real estate team ultimately depends on your goals, personality, and career stage. If you’re new to the industry or struggling to generate consistent business, a team can provide the structure, resources, and support needed to jumpstart your career. However, if you’re highly independent and prefer building your business solo, a team might not be the best fit.
Tips for Choosing the Right Team
Evaluate the Culture: Spend time getting to know the team’s dynamics and values. Make sure they align with your own.
Understand the Commission Structure: Know what you’re giving up in exchange for the team’s resources and support.
Ask About Accountability: Determine how much oversight the team provides and whether it matches your needs.
Consider Branding Freedom: Look for teams that allow you to build your personal brand alongside the team’s.
Interview Multiple Teams: Even if you’re unsure about joining, interviewing teams can help you learn about different approaches and expand your network.
Conclusion: Real Estate Team Pros and Cons
Joining a real estate team can be a game-changer for some agents and a less favorable choice for others. By carefully weighing the pros and cons, you can make a decision that aligns with your career goals and personal preferences. Whether you thrive in a team environment or prefer the autonomy of working solo, there’s no right or wrong path—just the one that’s right for you.
Remember, this is your career, and it’s worth investing the time to explore all your options. Interview teams, ask questions, and choose the path that sets you up for long-term success.
Want personal advice on whether or not joining a team is right for you? Take advantage of our free coaching call by booking a time with an ICT coach, below.
