Just Not Sure...

I find it hard to jump on the band wagon of ripping into the broker. I feel the need to have the following questions answered:

1. How many and what were the loose ends you left behind?

2. How much work did this cause the broker and did s/he have to assign someone else to complete it?

3. How long have you given the broker to answer?

4. Are you sure the broker isn't having his/her own problems to deal with.

I just find it hard to convict someone based on information you have provided. As Greg suggested above I think you should right again reiterating your points and pointing out that you have written before. Give him/her a whole week and repeat if necessary. AFter the third time take what action you have to

It could be the broker is just too busy to answer your email, as it wouldn't be a priority most likely. I agree with Maya, make three attempts, and then take action with your local board.

However, I am not keen on brokerages that charge monthly fees, although many do. This makes it difficult for a part-time agent such as yourself, who needs to work another job to support the family, to keep paying the monthly fees if not making income on real estate sales. 

I agree with Lenn, too. Many brokerages realize what they've lost after agents leave, and then try to make amends. Usually it's too late after agents leave. I know you say it's personal, but it always comes down to business, too, when an agent leaves (IMO). If the brokerage was not there for you, sounds like you found one that is and will help you in your career goal. Best of luck to you.

There is no law or code that says that brokers have to have common sense.  Some are just plain bad.

Thanks for the tips on removing excess white space, but I couldn't get it to work, so I just deleted my comment #9.

Definitely not the professional way to act.  I'm guessing you won't be going back to that brokerage, should this one not be a good fit.

Todd- Bottom line, you made a decision that is right for you and your family and you did so in a professional manner!  You rock!

As for the brokerage you left, hopefully you'll be able to wrap up loose ends and the lack of response was just a blip - perhaps you can physically stop by there one day and take care of whatever was still pending.

Good luck with the new broker!

Todd - when we switched companies back in 2005, our former broker decided to make an example of us for the rest of the agents.  We were stripped of every one of our listings.  We were treated horribly.  I've never forgotten it.  In the years since, we have received letter after letter, and call after call asking us to return.  No way.  Not after the way we were treated.  In 2005, they were the largest real estate company in our area.  Today, they have closed several offices, and rumor has it they will be shutting down completely by the end of the year.  What comes around goes around.  Be glad they are not your problem any more.

Wow I was amazed reading Lenn's experiences.  I've only worked for two brokers before working for myself. 

Both were ok experiences.  But, I have heard stories.  Breaking up is hard to do.

What a shame.

We've only had one producer ever leave the firm, and the only acrymony was prior to our exit meeting. He arrived with a scowl on his face, furious that I had the termerity to not terminate him with the state until I had my stuff back. He walked in with boxes, signs, files, and a face that would have looked less threatened if it were covered with war paint. 

That quickly changed when I informed him that I would release his listings unconditionally and pay him the same percentage on his pending deals as if he never left. His jaw just dropped. 

I think we get along better now. I honestly think the guy didn't get who we were until he left. 

Todd, this isn't normally the usual process when leaving a company. For some reason your broker is taking it personally. Put it behind you and move on.

Hi Todd. I am the broker of a 30 person office and my agents who left me still come in and have coffee with us. I stay in touch with them through all different sorts of channels, I actually sat next to one of my old agents during a pedicure and we had a great time catching up. A broker who acts like this is just Self Centered. We are not all like that. Move on and forget about it.

Good luck at your new firm.  Move on, you have your family to take care of. 

I've only done it once, but yes, it was ugly. :(

Sorry you've been having problems.  I've switched brokerages a few times.  The first one I left was ugly they wouldn't release me without a 5,000 fine.  I was basically help captive until they missed a franchise payment and the company was dropped! no more contract binding me.  The last company I was with was amazing it was time for me to open my own brokerage and they were very supportive.  Best wishes and I hope it gets resolved soon.  Hang in there

Todd:

Sorry to hear your situation.  Unfortunately it is all too common.  When I decided to leave the first firm I worked for several years ago, I was sick to my stomach from some of the horror stories I had heard about how agents were treated when they left.  I finally did leave after a face to face with the Broker/Owner, I took the high road , thanked him and have stayed friendly ever since.  He probably hexes me behind my back but my conscience is clear.  The older I get the more I realize to focus on what I can control (myself) and let the rest go.

I don't think you are experiencing the norm, keep a positive attitude and it will all work out for you.  Good luck at your new office!