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For Old Fogie RE/MAX Agents Only

I first joined RE/MAX back in 2000 and worked there until 2003. Went out on my own, then took a 2-year sabbatical and am now back at RE/MAX. I like the company a lot, especially my office, which has incredible energy and enthusiasm... without being Rah Rah or oppressive.

Anyway, I met with my franchise's recruiter last week to talk about creating a training program for rookies. Rookies? Since when is RE/MAX a suitable place for rookies? Okay, so I've been out of the loop for awhile, but I always thought that one of the benefits of having a balloon on my business card is that we have the prestige of being mostly "experienced agents." Y'know, because we all pay a desk fee and don't need company training or leads or hand-holding... therefore, you know that if you hire a RE/MAX agent, you're getting a full-time, experienced, dedicated, competent agent.

Don't think I'm rookie-bashing - I'm not; I'm just surprised that RE/MAX is willing to dilute its image by aggressively recruiting new licensees.

Any thoughts from fellow RE/MAXers?

www.charmingolddenver.com

Jennifer Allan

www.CharmingOldDenver.com

Posted by Jennifer Allan on 06/05/2008 04:14 PM

Comments (13)

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13 Comments on For Old Fogie RE/MAX Agents Only

JUN

2008

Our office started training newbie agents during the boom market. You know, no experience you just had to be a lamp post and could sell a home? However, my broker was smart enough to know that he wanted agents that knew what they were doing out there in the world.

We had a trainer, who has left and I miss. I would sit in some of her classes just for refreshers from time to time. I have been at RE/MAX since 1990, even an old fart like me needs training now and then. Now they do the 100 days to greatness for new agents in conjunction with training.

We don't have as many rookie agents as before, but there is support and training if needed.

I don't think the public really notices?

Jennifer,

I was a RE/MAX agent for about 10 years, then left to start my own office (Realty World). I was always proud to be a RE/MAX agent because it was a given that to be a RE/MAX agent meant that you were the cream of the crop, best of the best. I have also noticed that they are taking newbies and think it is too bad that they are no longer thought of as the top of the heap. At least no longer in my eyes.

Jennifer:

Ok, you tricked me I was thinkin you were calling ME an old foggie. We have hired a few newbies and to date only 1 has worked out of the 10. 2 I've never seen since the welcome luncheon we had for them. The others take up alot of our staff secretaries valuable time on ridiculous questions that should be answered by a half-day MLS seminar. I resent the fact that they cannot spend time on MY business because they are hand-holding the others. I'm sorry that's not progressive thinking but the reason I joined FEE/MAX was to get away from the folks that didn't take the business seriously or were just selling a home to get a couch for the familyroom.

Hey there. Interesting post. It applies to me!:)

I started at RE/MAX in October 2005. It was my first office. I did OK, but the extra pressure was great.

My broker and I recently parted ways and I am currently looking for a home.

I don't think RE/MAX is a great place to start.

Ken

As a small office and broker owner who also sells, I don't recruit newbies that is why I purchased a RE/MAX franchise. I agree the problem with agents just starting business is sometimes some can be disruptive and I hate to say this somewhat jealous of those of us that do have business. Since I also sell, I just don't want to deal with this. That is why I stay small and really don't recruit at all, they can go down the street to C21 or whereever. I can see too that the R/M agent population is aging and I guess that is a big concern for the headquarters in Colorado or on the regional level.

Jennifer, Unfortunately, Re-Max like many other brokerages, turned into a desk rental business during the boom. The more agents you have paying rent the more money you make. Selling real estate is not a requirement to have a succesful real estate brokerage. Sad but true.

JUN

2008

I've been with RE/MAX since 2001. At first it was touted "experienced agents only". That slowly changed and now rookies are welcomed with open arms.

I think it would be hard for a Rookie to start a t Re/max unless they were on a team.

Hi Chuck. I am proof postive!!:)

Ken

I started with Re\Max from the beginning. My first day I went to the office, got the grand tour, and was told call if you need anything (I work from home). Scary to think that my first deals were trial and error. I taught myself, I've done well if I say so myself.

Over the years though I have seen many a rookie start with Re\Max only to fail. I do not think its the right company to start out with.

Interesting perspectives here! I guess I'm wondering if it's still fair to answer the question "So, is there anything special about RE/MAX?" with my standard answer about RE/MAX attracting the best and the brightest (which I really do think WAS true)? Not that rookies can't be best and bright, but I hate to see our image become that of "other" companies who cycle rookies in and out the door like cattle...

JUN

2008

Again, you know I was never a Remax agent and I'll never be but the fees just scare me to death! My very good friend who started his first two rookie year at Remax is now still paying the debt he owes from when he was a Remax agent. Just that thought crinches me....

I'm a rookie agent (18 months) and have only been with RE/MAX. I consider it the best company out there and although the fees are crazy:) I do well enough as an agent, that I'm OK with it. I could work at another company and share my commission but like bringing home 95% of my commission.

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