Don’t Get Sold: 10 Power Questions to Ask at Your Next Brokerage Interview

Alright, so you’ve got your real estate license, and now it’s time to choose a brokerage. But here’s the thing—this isn’t just about them interviewing you. You’ve gotta flip the script and interview them right back. Because let’s be honest, the wrong brokerage could tank your career faster than you can say, “I’ll follow up.”

Most agents walk into these interviews thinking they’ve got to impress the broker. But you? You’re different. You’re smart. You know that this decision could mean the difference between struggling for a year or crushing it in six months. So how do you make sure you’re choosing the right place to hang your license? You ask the right questions. Here’s your game plan.

1. What’s Your Commission Split, and Is It Negotiable?

Let’s get the obvious one out of the way. Sure, everyone’s focused on commission splits, but it’s not just about the numbers—it’s about flexibility. Are they hardline on that 70/30 split, or is there room to negotiate? And more importantly, when does that split change? You don’t want to be stuck at 70/30 forever when you’re bringing in six figures.

2. What Fees Am I Responsible For?

Spoiler: It’s not just about the split. Some brokerages have a laundry list of fees—desk fees, franchise fees, transaction fees, office coffee fees (okay, maybe not that one). Make sure you know exactly what you’ll be shelling out each month so you’re not blindsided by hidden costs.

3. How Do You Support Agents with Leads?

Leads are the lifeblood of your business. Does this brokerage just hand you a phone and say, “Good luck,” or do they have a lead generation system in place? Ask how they source leads and what you’re expected to do to get them. Are they pushing you towards cold calling? Do they offer a CRM? Are you running solo, or is there a team to help out?

4. What Kind of Training and Mentorship Do You Offer?

If you’re new, you need more than just a handbook and a pat on the back. Do they offer ongoing training? What about one-on-one mentorship? Find out if there are specific programs or if you’ll be shadowing a top agent. This could be the make-or-break factor that determines how fast you scale.

5. What Technology Tools Do You Provide?

The tools a brokerage provides can be game-changing. Are they giving you access to a modern CRM? Do they use outdated software from the ‘90s that makes you want to pull your hair out? You need to know what resources you’re getting—tools for marketing, transaction management, and communication are critical.

6. How Do You Promote Work-Life Balance?

Here’s the thing no one talks about: real estate is a grind, and burnout is real. If you’re working 80 hours a week, you won’t last long in this business. Ask what the brokerage does to encourage work-life balance. Do they offer any kind of flexibility, remote work options, or ways to manage your schedule so you’re not glued to your phone 24/7?

7. What’s the Culture Like Here?

Culture eats strategy for breakfast. You could be at the highest-paying brokerage in town, but if the vibe is off, you’ll hate every second of it. Are people competitive or collaborative? Is it more of a ‘shark tank’ or a supportive community? Make sure the environment is something you’ll actually want to be part of.

8. How Are Top Performers Rewarded?

If you’re planning to crush it, you want to know what’s in it for you. Are there bonuses, awards, trips to Hawaii? Do they recognize top agents and reward success, or is it every agent for themselves? You want to be at a brokerage that celebrates wins and pushes you to grow.

9. What Is Your Market Share in the Area?

This is a big one. If they’re the best-known brokerage in town, that brand recognition can help you get listings and close deals faster. But if they’re struggling to make a name for themselves, it might be an uphill battle for you. Find out how they stack up against other brokerages in the area and how their brand will help you get business.

10. What’s the Plan for Growth?

A brokerage without a growth plan is like a boat without a rudder—you’ll end up floating around aimlessly. Ask about their vision for the future. Are they expanding? Do they have plans to dominate new markets? The more ambitious they are, the better it is for you—because if they’re growing, your career will too.

Final Thought: You’re Choosing Them, Too

The point here is simple: this is a two-way street. You’re not just looking for a brokerage that will take you in; you’re looking for a place that will set you up for success. By asking these 10 questions, you’ll flip the dynamic and make sure you’re picking a brokerage that’s as serious about your success as you are.

And remember, when you ask good questions, you signal that you’re a serious player. So go ahead, walk into that interview like you own the room—because soon enough, you just might.

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