Starting your career in real estate in 2026 could be one of the best investments for your income and professional growth. However, choosing the right real estate agency will be vital to your success, as real estate is a rapidly changing industry.
The agency you align with helps build your credibility and directly impacts your earning potential. With many options available, the decision can feel overwhelming for new agents. You may be considering a franchise, an independent agency, or a cloud-based brokerage model.
Your long-term success depends on making the right choice. Let’s explore the key factors and why selecting the right agency is one of the most important steps for new agents.
Why Choosing the Right Brokerage Is Crucial for New Agents
When you are starting in real estate, choosing the right agency is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. It is not just about the commission you earn, it is about the opportunities to learn, the resources you gain access to, and the support that shapes the foundation of your career.
Enhance Your Agent Skillset
As a new agent, your journey is just beginning. The right agency helps you build more than a license and a job. You gain real market insights, in-depth knowledge, and continuous training that sharpens your abilities. A strong agency acts like a real-world classroom, guiding you from beginner to professional with the experience you need to succeed.
Mentorship and Expert Support
Real estate can be challenging, especially in the early stages. Being part of an agency with a positive culture and hands-on mentorship can make all the difference. Learning from experienced professionals provides you with confidence, strategies, and encouragement to overcome obstacles and grow.
Access to Resources and Tools
The real estate industry is constantly evolving. A future-focused agency provides the latest tools, systems, and technology that can keep you ahead of the competition. Combined with your own training and professional networking opportunities, you need to build on your resources and the value you add.
This gives new agents a clear advantage.
Reputation and Credibility
In real estate, reputation is everything. Without credibility, it is difficult to win clients or secure listings. And until you build your own name and brand, aligning yourself with a respected brand signals to clients that you are backed by a trusted name, which can directly impact your ability to attract business and earn more.
Building a Strong Career Foundation
Where you start can set the stage for your entire career. With the right mentorship, culture, and support, you can avoid common mistakes and build a long-term client base. The agency you choose will either accelerate your growth or hold it back, so the decision is crucial.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Agency
The best agency offers more than commissions. It provides training, support, and a culture that helps you succeed. Careful evaluation before deciding is essential.
Training and Mentorship
Training and mentorship should develop your skills so you can progress with confidence. A good agency provides extensive in-house training, hands-on experience, and personalised guidance.
The best training programs include:
- Expert-led training in marketing, negotiation, prospecting, presenting, and other core skills
- Hands-on experience with tools and technologies that improve productivity and growth
Remember, training is also your responsibility. If you don’t know something, make it your mission to find out.
Commission Splits and Fees
Money isn’t everything, but everything requires money. Your ultimate goal in real estate is to generate consistent profits and commissions. Understanding the income structures of different agencies helps you make an informed decision.
Traditional models usually involve commission splits between the agency and agent. These may vary depending on your experience, results, and performance. Compare structures carefully to ensure they support your long-term goals.
Technology and Marketing Support
The right technology reduces effort while maximising results. A tech-driven agency allows you to automate tasks, streamline marketing, and focus on generating high-quality leads. This support can make you significantly more efficient as a new agent.
Company Culture and Reputation
The right agency culture goes beyond profits. A supportive environment creates opportunities for learning, collaboration, and long-term growth.
Reputation is equally important. A well-respected agency demonstrates client success, professionalism, and a reliable network, all qualities that help you build credibility.
The Best Real Estate Brokerages for New Agents in 2026
eXp Realty. Cloud-Based Model
eXp Realty is one of the fastest-growing cloud brokerages in the world. In my view, it is one of the best real estate agencies in the industry. However, it may not be the ideal starting point for brand-new agents.
Why Mentorship Matters for New Agents
Real estate deals often involve a client’s largest financial asset. Without strong mentorship, new agents risk making costly mistakes or even facing legal consequences. eXp can be an excellent option, but I would suggest only if you have a local mentor to guide you day-to-day.
Commission Structure
eXp follows a 75/25 model. You keep 75 percent of your commission, while eXp retains 25 percent until you reach $100,000 in commission within your anniversary year. After that, you keep 100 percent for the remainder of that year. The most you will ever pay eXp annually is $25,000.
My Recommendation
If you join eXp as a new agent, ensure you have experienced mentorship in place. With that support, eXp can be one of the best long-term career choices.
Pros for Experienced Agents
- Innovative real estate model
- The best commission model with massive incentives
- Access to The A Team Expert’s coaching and resources
- Free online training and personalised business workshops
- Technology-first brokerage with remote flexibility
Traditional National Franchises
We have a few long-term franchises in Australia – some have been trusted household names in Australia for decades. With the right office, you can benefit from localised support and established brand recognition.
Cons for New Agents
- Variable commission rates are often lower than cloud-based models
- Larger offices can create high internal competition in saturated markets
- Lower initial commission splits compared to cloud-based models
- Franchise fees (can vary depending on where you are located)
- Commission structures (can vary widely by location)
International brands
Some international brands give you recognition with agent independence. Some models allow you to operate like you are a business owner while being part of a global network.
Pros for New Agents
- Strong brand presence and could have consumer trust
- Local office support
- Flexible commission structures
Cons for New Agents
- Some have quite large desk fees and additional expenses can be challenging in the early stages
How to Make Your Final Decision
Your final decision should be based on how well each agency matches your goals. Always compare offers and do your research.
The importance of being interviewed by multiple agencies or doing your homework!
Doing your homework and / or being interviewed by several brokerages gives you insight into culture, resources, and commission structures. It also gives you negotiating power and helps you find the right fit.
Questions to Ask in an Interview
(And you might decide not to ask any of these questions initially. These questions might be better if you are offered the position).
- What commission split do you offer?
- Are commissions negotiable?
- Do you provide mentorship or training?
- Do you assist with leads?
- Are there franchise or desk fees?
Red Flags to Watch For
Negative reputation or unethical practices
What You Should Prioritise
The agency you choose sets the foundation for your career. Prioritise culture, training, mentorship, and support, not just commissions. Understand your goals clearly before deciding, and interview multiple brokerages to find the best fit.
The right choice today will shape your real estate career for years to come.
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