7 Red Flags Your Brokerage is Costing You Money (And What Top Producers Do Instead)
Published: December 2025 | Reading Time: 12 minutes
TL;DR (Too Long; Didn't Read Summary)
Are you working harder but keeping less? This guide reveals 7 warning signs your brokerage is draining your income, from commission splits that don't scale with success to "support" you're paying for but never receive. Learn what top-producing agents look for in a brokerage partner, including the real math behind 100% commission models and how to calculate your true take-home pay. If you've been feeling stuck or frustrated with your current situation, this article will show you exactly what to look for—and what successful agents are doing differently in 2025.
Bottom Line: Your brokerage choice is the single biggest factor affecting your annual income. Most agents don't realize they could be earning $20,000-$50,000 more per year with a different commission structure and support system.
Introduction: The Hidden Cost of the Wrong Brokerage
Let's start with a question that keeps experienced agents up at night:
"How much money have I left on the table by staying here?"
If you've been in real estate for more than a few years, you've probably done the math at least once. You've looked at your annual commission totals and wondered what your income would look like if you kept a bigger piece of every deal.
For most productive agents, that number is staggering.
An agent closing 25 transactions per year at an average commission of $12,000 per deal generates $300,000 in gross commission income (GCI). At a 70/30 split, you're giving your broker $90,000 per year. At 80/20? That's still $60,000 walking out the door.
But here's what most agents don't realize: the commission split is just the beginning. Hidden fees, lack of support, outdated systems, and opportunity costs add up to far more than the percentage you see on your contract.
The real question isn't "Should I switch brokerages?" It's "How much is staying here actually costing me?"
In this comprehensive guide, we'll expose the 7 red flags that signal it's time to evaluate your options—and show you what top producers look for instead.
Red Flag #1: Your Commission Split Doesn't Reward Your Success
The Problem
You started at 60/40. You worked hard, closed deals, built your business. Eventually, you "graduated" to 70/30. Maybe even 80/20 if you're producing big numbers.
But here's the uncomfortable truth: you're being penalized for your own success.
Think about it: The more you sell, the more your broker makes—without providing any additional value. Your first deal of the year requires the same support as your thirtieth, but your broker's take keeps increasing while the value you receive stays flat.
What Top Producers Do Instead
Successful agents understand that commission structures should align with how they actually work. Once you're an experienced, productive agent, you don't need someone taking 20-30% of every deal "just because."
Top producers look for:
100% commission models where you keep what you earn
Transparent fee structures (monthly fee + per-transaction costs)
Brokerages that provide value beyond just holding your license
The Real Math
Let's compare two agents, both closing 30 deals per year at $10,000 average commission:
Agent A (70/30 split):
Gross Commission: $300,000
Broker takes: $90,000
Agent keeps: $210,000
Agent B (100% commission with transparent fee structure):
Gross Commission: $300,000
Monthly membership fee: $100/month = $1,200/year
Transaction fees: Vary based on sale price (detailed fee schedule provided during consultation)
Estimated annual transaction costs: $36,000-$45,000*
Agent keeps: Approximately $255,000-$262,800
Difference: $45,000-$52,800 more per year
Transaction fees are transparent and scale with sale price. Complete fee schedule available during your consultation meeting.
That's not a small amount. That's a car payment. That's private school tuition. That's building real wealth.
Key Question to Ask Yourself
"Am I paying my broker for support I actually use, or am I subsidizing their business while they provide minimal value?"
Red Flag #2: You're Paying for "Support" You Never Receive
The Problem
Traditional brokerages love to talk about all the support they provide:
"We have in-house training!"
"Marketing resources available!"
"Broker support whenever you need it!"
But when you actually need help? Your broker is "in a meeting." The marketing materials are outdated. The "training" is a once-a-month sales meeting that wastes your time.
You're paying a premium for support that exists more in the marketing materials than in reality.
What Top Producers Do Instead
Experienced agents know the difference between promised support and actual support. They look for:
Real, Accessible Leadership
Non-competing broker who's actually available
Leadership team with recent, relevant experience
Actual phone calls returned, not ticket systems
Functional Tools, Not Promises
Transaction coordinators who actually coordinate (not just file paperwork)
Marketing systems you'll use (not binders you'll ignore)
CRM and tech that streamlines your business
Community, Not Just an Office
Agents who collaborate and share referrals
Culture where success is celebrated, not threatened
Mentorship from those who've been where you're trying to go
The "Support" Reality Check
Ask yourself:
When's the last time you used your broker's "marketing resources"?
How often does your broker actually help you close deals?
Are you paying for an office you rarely visit?
Would you miss any of this support if you left tomorrow?
If you're being honest, the answer is probably revealing.
Red Flag #3: Technology That Creates More Work, Not Less
The Problem
Your brokerage's "cutting-edge technology" is actually:
A clunky CRM you've given up on
Marketing tools that require a tech degree to use
Systems that don't talk to each other
Software from 2015 that "still works fine"
Meanwhile, you're paying for Adobe, Canva, BombBomb, and three other tools out of your own pocket because the brokerage's systems are worthless.
What Top Producers Do Instead
Modern, productive agents expect technology that actually helps them:
ONE Suite of Tools (Not 15 Disjointed Systems)
Integrated CRM that actually works
Marketing automation that saves time
Transaction management that's intuitive
Mobile apps that function
AI-Enhanced Features (Not Just Buzzwords)
Smart lead routing and follow-up
Automated market reports and CMAs
Social media content generation
Email campaign optimization
Training That Exists
Not "here's a login, figure it out"
Actual onboarding and ongoing education
ONE.U learning management system (24/7 access)
Support when you have questions
The Tech Reality Check
Calculate how much you're spending per month on tools your brokerage should provide:
CRM: $50-200/month
Marketing software: $50-150/month
Transaction management: $50-100/month
Video messaging: $30-50/month
Social media tools: $30-100/month
Total: $210-600/month in redundant costs
Add that to what you're already paying your broker. Still feel like you're getting a deal?
Red Flag #4: They're Competing for Your Clients
The Problem
Your broker isn't just your broker—they're also actively selling real estate. Which means:
They're competing for the same leads you're chasing
Their personal production takes priority
Conflicts of interest are baked into the relationship
You'll never get their full attention
Nothing says "we're here to support your success" quite like competing for your commissions.
What Top Producers Do Instead
Successful agents understand the value of non-competing broker support. They look for:
Brokers Focused on Agent Success
Leadership team that doesn't compete for deals
Full attention on helping you close transactions
No conflict of interest when you need guidance
Business decisions made for agents, not personal production
Available When You Need Them
Broker answers the phone during your crisis
Contract review happens same-day, not "when I'm free"
Leadership invested in YOUR success, not their own deals
Key Questions
Does your broker take listings in your farm area?
When you call with an urgent question, are they available?
Who benefits more from your relationship—you or them?
Red Flag #5: The "Low-Cost" Brokerage That Isn't
The Problem
You switched to a "low-cost" brokerage to save money. Great split, low monthly fee—what could go wrong?
Then reality hit:
Transaction fees higher than expected
No marketing support (buy it yourself)
No transaction coordinator (hire your own)
No mentorship (you're on your own)
No lead generation (pay for your own)
No office (work from Starbucks)
Suddenly, your "savings" are costing you more—in money, time, and stress.
What Top Producers Do Instead
Experienced agents know the difference between cheap and affordable.
Cheap: Low upfront cost, high hidden costs Affordable: Fair, transparent pricing with real value
They look for:
All-in pricing they can plan for (no surprise fees)
Included services (TC, marketing, CRM)
Real support (not just a virtual mailbox)
Community and collaboration (not isolation)
The Total Cost Reality
"Low-Cost" Brokerage:
Monthly fee: $50
Transaction fee: $400-500 per deal
Marketing: $200/month (you pay)
CRM: $100/month (you pay)
TC services: $300 per transaction (you hire)
Lead generation: $300/month (you pay)
30 deals/year total cost: $600 + $15,000 + $2,400 + $1,200 + $9,000 + $3,600 = $31,800
Full-Service 100% Brokerage:
Monthly fee: $100
Transaction fee: $1,200 per deal (includes compliance)
Marketing: Included
CRM: Included
TC services: Available ($400/transaction if needed)
Lead generation: Included
30 deals/year total cost: $1,200 + $36,000 = $37,200
The "expensive" brokerage costs $5,400 more per year but includes everything. The "cheap" brokerage leaves you isolated, stressed, and doing everything yourself.
What's your time worth?
Red Flag #6: You've Outgrown the Training Wheels
The Problem
When you joined, you needed training. You needed hand-holding. You needed someone teaching you how contracts work and where the MLS button is.
You were grateful for the support.
But that was three years ago. Or five. Or ten.
You're not a new agent anymore. You're a professional producing 20, 30, 40+ transactions per year. You don't need basics—you need advanced strategies, market insights, and tools that scale with your business.
But your brokerage is still treating you like you're brand new. And you're still paying for training wheels you don't need.
What Top Producers Do Instead
Experienced agents look for brokerages built for professionals:
Peer-Level Community
Collaborate with other successful agents
Share strategies, not basic tactics
Learn from those at your level or higher
Mastermind groups, not "how to write an offer" classes
Advanced Resources
Market analysis and investment strategy
Business scaling and team building
Wealth building and tax planning
Negotiation at the highest levels
Respect for Your Experience
Treated as the professional you are
Autonomy to run your business your way
Support when needed, not micromanagement
Key Questions
Is the "training" at your brokerage relevant to where you are now?
Are you learning from agents at your level or above?
Does your broker respect your experience or treat you like a rookie?
Red Flag #7: No Clear Path to Building Equity
The Problem
You've been building your business for years. You've created systems, developed a brand, cultivated client relationships, and generated millions in sales.
But you don't own any of it.
Your brokerage owns your listings. They own the systems. They own the relationships (legally). And when you leave, you walk away with nothing but your personal contacts.
You've been building their business, not yours.
What Top Producers Do Instead
Smart agents think like business owners, not employees. They look for:
Ownership Opportunities
Keep your client relationships
Build equity in your own brand
Create systems you control
Freedom to build and scale your own team
Portability
Technology you can take with you
Brand identity that's yours
Marketing assets you own
Client relationships you control
Long-Term Thinking
Scalability and team growth potential
Exit strategy and business value
Building wealth through real estate, not just commissions
The Equity Question
"If I left tomorrow, what would I take with me? What have I actually built that's mine?"
If the answer is just "my contacts and reputation," you've been working for someone else's equity, not your own.
What Top Producers Look for in 2025-2026
After reviewing these red flags, you might be wondering: "What should I actually be looking for?"
Here's what successful agents prioritize when evaluating brokerages:
1. Transparent Economics
Clear commission structure (100% commission models)
Known monthly costs ($100-200/month typical)
Transparent transaction fees
No hidden charges or surprise costs
Ability to forecast annual expenses
2. Real Support Systems
Non-competing broker who's actually available
Transaction coordinator included or available
Marketing resources that are current and useful
CRM and tech that actually works
3. Modern Technology
Integrated systems (not 15 different logins)
Mobile-friendly tools
AI-enhanced features for efficiency
ONE.U learning management system (24/7 training access)
4. Community & Culture
Collaborative environment (not cutthroat)
Agents who share and refer
Celebration of success (not jealousy)
"Coolture" that makes you want to show up
5. Professional Respect
Treated as the experienced professional you are
Autonomy to run your business your way
Resources for continuing education
Mentorship from successful agents
6. Geographic Flexibility
Serve multiple markets (not just one city)
Valencia, Santa Clarita Valley, San Fernando Valley, Antelope Valley, and beyond
Support for expanding your territory
Access to broader referral networks
The Math: What Switching Could Mean for You
The financial impact of switching to a 100% commission model varies significantly based on your current split and production level. Here's the key principle to understand:
The Lower Your Current Split, The Greater Your Potential Savings
Example Scenario: Mid-Level Producer
Agent Producing 25 Deals/Year @ $10,000 Avg Commission
Current Brokerage (70/30 split):
Gross Commission: $250,000
Broker takes: $75,000
Agent keeps: $175,000
100% Commission Model (transparent fee structure):
Gross Commission: $250,000
Monthly membership: $100/month = $1,200/year
Transaction fees: Based on sale price (varies per deal)
Estimated annual transaction costs: $25,000-$35,000*
Agent keeps: Approximately $215,000-$223,800
Potential Annual Increase: $40,000-$48,800
Transaction fees are transparent and scale with property sale price. Complete fee schedules are provided during consultation meetings so you can calculate your exact costs based on your typical transaction profile.
The Breakeven Point
Generally, agents producing 12-15+ transactions per year begin seeing meaningful financial advantages with 100% commission structures. However, the actual savings depend on:
Your current commission split
Your average sale price (affects transaction fees)
The specific services you need and use
Your business operating style
Important Note for High-Volume Producers: If you're closing 50+ transactions per year, it's worth exploring multiple 100% commission models. Some brokerages (like eXp, Real, etc.) offer annual caps on fees, while we offer transparent per-transaction pricing. Each model has advantages depending on your transaction volume, average sale price, and support needs. We're happy to help you run the numbers to see which structure maximizes YOUR take-home pay—even if that means recommending you explore other options. Our goal is to help you make the smartest financial decision for your business.
Want to run your own numbers? Use the Do The Math Calculator to see exactly what you could be earning based on your specific situation, or schedule a consultation where we'll help you compare all your options honestly.
FAQ: Common Questions About Switching Brokerages
Q: Is 100% commission really better, or is it a marketing gimmick?
A: It depends on your production level and what's included. For most agents producing 15+ deals per year, 100% commission with transparent fees results in significantly higher take-home pay. The key is understanding the total cost structure—monthly fees, transaction fees, and what services are included.
Q: What about the support I'll lose?
A: This is the most common concern, and it's valid. But ask yourself honestly: how much of the "support" do you actually use? Most experienced agents find they're paying for services they never access. Modern 100% brokerages provide the support that matters: available broker, transaction coordination, marketing tools, and tech systems.
Q: When is the best time to switch brokerages?
A: There's never a "perfect" time, but many agents prefer switching at year-end (December/January) for clean bookkeeping, or mid-year (June/July) if they're losing money every month under their current structure. The best time is when the financial impact of staying exceeds the inconvenience of switching.
Q: Will my clients care if I switch?
A: Your clients work with you, not your brokerage. The key is clear communication: "I've joined a brokerage that allows me to provide even better service while keeping my fees competitive." Most clients don't even know what brokerage you're with.
Q: What should I ask during a brokerage interview?
A: Focus on these key questions:
What's the exact monthly fee and transaction fee structure?
What services are included vs. additional cost?
Is the broker competing or non-competing?
What technology and tools are provided?
What's the company culture like? (Ask agents, not just the broker)
Can I see the complete fee schedule before deciding?
Q: How do I know if a brokerage is right for me?
A: Beyond the numbers, it comes down to three things:
Economics: Can you clearly forecast your costs and income?
Support: Do they provide what you actually need (not just what sounds good)?
Culture: Do you want to be around these people?
If any of those three don't align, keep looking.
Q: What if I'm not producing 30+ deals per year yet?
A: 100% commission models typically become more profitable around 12-15 deals per year, depending on average commission. Below that, a higher split with lower fees might make more sense. But remember: you're also evaluating support, culture, and growth potential—not just current economics.
Q: How do I transition without disrupting my current deals?
A: Most agents transition with zero disruption:
Finish all pending transactions at your current brokerage
Switch during a slow period (if possible)
Transfer your database and systems before leaving
Notify clients with a professional announcement
Your new brokerage typically helps with the transition process
Summary: Is It Time to Make a Change?
If you recognized yourself in 3 or more of these red flags, it's worth having a conversation about your options.
You don't have to switch. But you owe it to yourself to understand what you're leaving on the table by staying.
The bottom line:
Your brokerage choice affects your income more than any other business decision
Most agents could earn $20,000-$50,000+ more per year with a different structure
"Support" should mean actual support, not empty promises
Technology should save you time, not create more work
You deserve a broker who's invested in your success, not competing with you
What top producers do differently:
They evaluate total cost, not just commission split
They demand transparency in fees and services
They choose brokerages that align with their production level
They prioritize real support over promised support
They think like business owners, not employees
Ready to Explore Your Options?
At Realty ONE Group Success, we've built a different kind of brokerage—one designed for experienced professionals who know what they're worth.
What we offer:
✅ 100% commission structure with transparent fees
✅ $100/month membership fee (access to all tools and resources)
✅ Non-competing broker who's actually available
✅ Full-time transaction coordinator (best in the universe, according to our agents)
✅ Modern technology including CRM, marketing automation, and ONE.U learning platform
✅ Community and culture (what we call "Coolture")—agents who collaborate and celebrate together
✅ Geographic flexibility serving Valencia, SFV, AV, and surrounding areas
We're not saying we're perfect for everyone. But we are saying we're built for experienced agents who want to maximize their earnings without sacrificing support.
Curious if we're the right fit?
Schedule a confidential phone meeting with Kat Hayes, our Talent Acquisition Manager
This isn't a high-pressure sales call. It's a 30-minute conversation to see if there's mutual fit. We'll discuss:
Your current business and goals
Our 100% commission structure and total costs
Technology, support, and culture
Whether this move makes financial sense for you
No obligation. No pressure. Just honest conversation.
Or, if you want to run the numbers yourself first, use the Do The Math Calculator to compare your current situation to a 100% commission model.
About Realty ONE Group Success
We're a Top 1% nationwide brokerage serving experienced real estate professionals across Valencia, Santa Clarita Valley, San Fernando Valley, Antelope Valley, and surrounding areas. Founded on the belief that agents should keep more of what they earn while receiving real support, we've built a community of productive agents who collaborate, celebrate success together, and have access to the tools they actually need.
Location: 25060 Avenue Stanford, Suite 150, Valencia, CA 91355
Phone: (661) 284-7615
Website: JoinROG.com
Broker: Patrick Raach, CalDRE #02020813
Ready to see if we're the right fit? Book your meeting with Kat Hayes today.
Article published December 2025 | Updated regularly to reflect current market conditions and brokerage offerings
Related Resources
Do The Math Calculator - Compare your current income to 100% commission
Schedule a Meeting - Talk with our Talent Acquisition Manager
Main Website - Learn more about Realty ONE Group Success
