Admin

Switching from a ReMax company to a small Independant company.

By
Real Estate Agent with Real Estate Services of N.C.

This is the first time for me posting a blog. WOW where have I been right? Well to tell you the truth I was not in sales except for my younger years. I was in construction for the past 27 years and due to an injury I cannot do what I loved to do, "Electrical work". I stepped into the second choice Real Estate.

The only hard part is getting clients. I never had to do this before and it is really hard for me. Where do you start? I left ReMax only because I couldn't afford the fees every month along with the costs of MLS and licensing fee's etc...

I would have lost my house if I continued that path. Luckily for me I knew of someone going out on his own. I had asked if he would mind me hanging my license under his company name. He said sure just pay the expenses incurred by me per month. I said thank you and I will. I can work from my home just as I could have from ReMax, all without paying that huge monthly fee.

Switching companies is a big deal. You lose "That Name" but you also pay for it too. Everything has its draw backs I guess. Now it is time for new cards, signs, magnets, promo items. It all costs money. Starting a new business is hard especially in a new state.

Seeking any advice from a Real Estate professional. You can take a look at my web site and comment, e-mail me there, I check mail often. WWW.ChathamNCRealEstateToday.com

 

Thanks for letting me vent and seek any help. Much appreciated.

Comments(4)

Show All Comments Sort:
Frances C. Rokicki
Fran Rokicki Realty, LLC - Bolton, CT
Broker-Mentor,CRS

Welcome to the rain!  It's an expensive business whether you are with a franchise or not.  I was with RE/MAX for 13 years and loved it. Went on my own to fulfill a dream:) I had plenty of reserves in place. Hope you pick up some good tips along the way, here on the rain. 

It's a Good Life!

Fran

Apr 30, 2008 09:18 AM
Valerie Osterhoudt
Johnson Real Estate, Inc. - Cromwell, CT
ABR, Cromwell, CT Real Estate ~ 860.883.8889
Frank... There ARE so many expenses involved with real estate.  Now if only we could educate the public that when we get a commission, it ISN't the full percentage, and after cuts and all the expenses.. it is like a regular check.  Welcome to ActiveRain.
Apr 30, 2008 09:24 AM
The Entire Team of Price & Company Professionals
Price & Company Realty - Myrtle Beach, SC

I, too, am an independent broker and I understand how you feel.  Just because you're no longer under their "umbrella", doesn't mean you can't help you clients any less.  If anything, you will give them more attention and service than they've ever received from a franchise.  Therefore, please accept the following suggestions to get started. 

Work your sphere of influence.  All the builders, contractors, roofers, plumbers, drywallers, electricians, etc. that you know.  Let them know that this is your business, and you'd love the opportunity to help them.

Work the internet.  There are many different websites, blog sites, auction sites and advertising sites out there, and it can get confusing.  If money is an issue, do what is free.  Work anything that keeps your expenses down.

Use inexpensive ways to market yourself.  Go to VistaPrint.com to order free business cards (only pay shipping & handling) or other printables.  They have great deals, and once you close a few deals, you can step them up.

Best of luck on your new endeavor! 

Apr 30, 2008 09:42 AM
Julie Chapman
Julie Chapman Broker - Ormond Beach, FL
Daytona Beach Shores, Florida

I am independent and did more transactions sides than any other office in my market last year so don't think you need a franchise name. 

Did you put out a press release in the local papers that you moved and notify all of your former clients and/or customers and sphere of influence that you have made the move. 

If you search Active Rain you will find many posts on free places to post your listings.......like postlets, etc.  The internet is best place to market homes. 

Another great inexpensive way to meet people is to hold open houses - you will increase your sphere of influence and databases. 

Be positive and use your time wisely.....if something doesn't produce, stop it and work on what does....the market is changing.......

Don't forget to post your listings or advertise yourself on localism.....I have a house under contract that found me on Active Rain.....(that is priceless and Active Rain is free......)

Apr 30, 2008 11:23 AM