10 Best Real Estate Brokerages for New Agents in 2026

Starting a career in real estate is exciting—but choosing the right brokerage as a new agent is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make.

With so many options—from well-known national brands to newer, tech-driven models—finding the best fit takes a little strategy. Maybe you want strong training and mentorship, a part-time-friendly setup, lower monthly fees, or a commission plan that makes sense while you’re still building momentum. Whatever your situation, knowing the real pros and cons of the major real estate brokerage companies helps you choose with confidence.

In this guide, we break down the best real estate companies to work for and the top brokerages for new agents in 2026, so you can compare your options and pick a place that actually supports your first year in the business.

NAR Settlement Update – Effective Aug 17 2024: In March 2024 the National Association of REALTORS® reached a $418 million settlement that prohibits listing brokers from posting offers of buyer-agent compensation in MLS systems and requires buyers to sign a written representation agreement before touring any home. Commission payments remain negotiable, but they must now be arranged off-MLS. Because brokerages are adjusting their fee policies throughout 2025, treat the splits and caps quoted below as starting points and confirm current terms with your local office.

eXp Realty

eXp Realty operates with an 80/20 commission split, meaning agents keep 80% of their earnings while the company retains 20%. Once an agent pays $16,000 into the brokerage (the cap), they earn 100% commission for the anniversary year.

After capping, agents keep 100% of commission for the rest of their anniversary year, though standard transaction/administrative fees may still apply and can vary by market—confirm the exact amounts with your local eXp brokerage.

New agents go through a mentorship program with a temporary 60/40 split on their first three transactions to ensure they receive guidance during onboarding.

Performance Metrics

• Transactions: In 2024, eXp Realty handled 434,165 transaction sides, making it one of the most productive brokerages in the U.S.
• Agent Count: Over 82,980 agents are affiliated with eXp Realty worldwide, with this number continuously growing due to its attractive business model.
• Brokerages: As a cloud-based brokerage, eXp doesn’t operate traditional offices but instead offers virtual platforms and partnerships with office spaces through Regus.

Pros of eXp Realty

• Flexibility and Technology: eXp is a virtual-first brokerage. Agents can access live training sessions and workshops through eXp University’s events calendar (virtual and some in-person), along with other online tools—making it a strong fit for agents who want flexibility beyond a traditional office environment.
• Revenue and Stock Opportunities: Through programs like ICON Awards and Agent Equity Plans, agents can earn stock and additional revenue by meeting performance goals or attracting new agents.
• Supportive Culture: eXp fosters a collaborative environment with mentorship programs and task forces, ensuring new agents receive the guidance they need to succeed.

Cons of eXp Realty

• Less Physical Presence: The lack of traditional office spaces may not suit agents who prefer in-person interaction with colleagues and clients. While eXp offers Regus office access, it doesn’t replace a permanent office setup.
• High Fees for New Agents: New agents must navigate the mentorship program, which temporarily reduces their commission earnings until they complete the required transactions.
• Complex Revenue Programs: While the opportunity to earn stock is appealing, some agents may find the requirements for programs like ICON Awards to be demanding and difficult to meet annually.

eXp Realty continues to attract new and seasoned agents with its innovative, agent-first model, providing a unique combination of virtual work flexibility, stock incentives, and a growing support network.

This brokerage appeals especially to tech-savvy new agents seeking autonomy and unlimited earning potential.

Compass

Compass uses a negotiated commission split, so terms vary by market, team, and production level. This flexibility can benefit experienced agents, but new agents may start with less favorable terms until they build a track record.

Performance Metrics

• Transactions: Compass handled approximately 67,886 transactions in Q3 of 2025, showing resilience despite market challenges.
• Agent Count: The brokerage has grown to over 21,550 agents, maintaining a competitive edge through recruitment even as it streamlines operations.
• Brokerages: Compass has a significant presence in major U.S. markets, but its model focuses more on centralized tech platforms rather than numerous individual offices.

Pros of Compass

• Luxury Market Focus: Compass specializes in high-end properties and offers exclusive services such as concierge programs to help with staging and repairs, making it attractive for agents operating in premium markets.
• Advanced Technology: As a tech-forward brokerage, Compass equips its agents with cutting-edge tools for marketing, transaction management, and client engagement, providing a competitive advantage.
• Strong Market Presence: Despite economic pressures, Compass continues to grow its agent count, reinforcing its role as a leader in the luxury segment of real estate.

Cons of Compass

• Inconsistent Commission Splits: The negotiable commission structure can be advantageous for top-performing agents but may leave newer agents at a disadvantage if they can’t secure favorable splits.
• Operational Challenges: Compass has faced financial struggles and undergone significant cost-cutting measures, including layoffs, which could affect agent support services and morale.
• Dependence on Technology: While Compass's tech tools are a selling point, agents who prefer traditional methods might struggle with the company’s tech-heavy approach.

Compass remains a top choice for agents focused on luxury markets, offering unique benefits and tech-driven solutions.

However, the brokerage’s performance-based splits and evolving financial strategies require agents to carefully assess whether it aligns with their business goals.

2026 update: Compass completed its merger with Anywhere Real Estate on Jan 9, 2026, so expect industry-wide changes as brands and operations integrate.

Coldwell Banker

Splits and fees vary widely by office because the Coldwell Banker system includes both company-owned and independently owned franchised offices.

Many offices use graduated splits (often lower for newer agents), and some may offer caps or milestones—confirm terms with the specific office you’re joining.

Performance Metrics

• Transactions: Coldwell Banker affiliates closed about 464,950 U.S. residential sides in 2024, underscoring the brand’s enormous reach.
• Sales Volume: Those deals represented roughly $243 billion in closed sales volume in 2024.
• Agent Count: The network ended 2024 with 96,000+ affiliated agents across 45 countries and territories.
• Brokerages: Coldwell Banker continues to grow through its franchise model—adding 127 new international offices and 12 new U.S. companies in 2024—so commission splits and support services still vary by market.

Pros of Coldwell Banker

• Established Brand Name: Coldwell Banker’s long-standing reputation enhances agent credibility and attracts clients, which can be beneficial for new agents just starting out.
• Comprehensive Training and Support: Coldwell Banker University® offers ongoing training; in 2024, instructors earned an NPS of 96, and 94% of learners reported feeling knowledgeable and empowered after attending a course.
• Office Presence and Technology: The brokerage provides office spaces, phone lines, and access to platforms like DocuSign to streamline operations, which can appeal to agents who prefer in-person support alongside tech solutions.

Cons of Coldwell Banker

• No Cap Structure: Unlike other brokerages that offer commission caps, Coldwell Banker agents must continue splitting commissions with the brokerage regardless of their annual performance, which can limit long-term earning potential.
• Inconsistent Commission Splits: While experienced agents can negotiate better splits, newer agents often face lower percentages, making it challenging to generate significant income initially.
• High Commission Fees: Some offices apply additional costs (e.g., desk/tech/transaction fees and/or a franchise/royalty component). The exact fee stack varies by office—ask for a written breakdown

Despite the commission dilemma, agents benefit from a strong brand presence. This is beneficial especially for new real estate agents.

Realty ONE Group

Realty ONE Group promotes a 100% commission model, meaning it doesn’t take a percentage split like traditional brokerages.

Instead, agents typically pay a fixed monthly fee plus per-transaction/administrative fees, which can vary by market and office—so confirm the exact fee sheet with your local franchise.

Performance Metrics

• Transactions: In 2023, Realty ONE Group said it completed 87,000+ transactions totaling $33.7B in homes sold.
• Agent Count: As of 2025, the brokerage has over 20,000 agents across its network and continues to attract agents drawn to its low-cost structure.
• Brokerages: The company operates more than 450 offices worldwide, with a particularly strong presence in the U.S. real estate market.

Pros of Realty ONE Group

• High Earnings Potential: The 100% commission model allows agents to maximize profits, making it especially attractive for high-performing agents or those managing large volumes of sales.
• Supportive Infrastructure: Realty ONE Group provides extensive training, mentorship programs, and access to modern marketing tools, ensuring agents have the resources to grow their businesses independently.
• Global Expansion and Branding: The company has experienced rapid expansion with a strong brand presence, giving agents a sense of community and networking opportunities across multiple locations.
• Training: Access to ONE.U (ONE University) for ongoing classes and skill-building.
• Tech: Use of zONE to manage transactions and stay organized from contract to payment.

Cons of Realty ONE Group

• Ongoing Fees: With 100% models, fixed monthly + per-transaction fees can be painful before you have consistent closings (cash-flow risk).
• Independent Work Style: Agents must be self-motivated, as the brokerage’s model emphasizes independence. Those who need more hands-on guidance may find this structure challenging compared to more traditional brokerages.
• Suitability for Experienced Agents: While new agents can thrive, the model generally favors those with established client bases or the ability to self-generate leads efficiently.

Realty ONE Group is ideal for agents seeking to maximize earnings while enjoying autonomy over their business operations. Its growth and success demonstrate the appeal of the 100% commission model in today’s competitive real estate landscape.

Redfin

Redfin is now part of Rocket Companies.

Redfin operates under a unique structure where agents are W-2 employees instead of independent contractors. Redfin Next high-split plan is now nationwide (Oct 2024) and lowers company-generated-lead split up to 40 %.

The Redfin Next compensation plan offers commission splits of up to 75% on self-generated transactions and 40% on deals sourced through Redfin’s platform.

Additionally, agents benefit from covered business expenses and perks, such as marketing support, health insurance, 401(k) matching, and stock purchase options.

Performance Metrics

• Transactions: Redfin’s agents are highly productive, often closing twice as many transactions as the industry average due to Redfin’s lead generation and tech-based approach.
• Agent Count: Redfin’s brokerage network includes 2,200+ agents across 42 states and its platform draws nearly 50M monthly visitors.
• Brokerages: Redfin operates nationwide, primarily through centralized hubs rather than traditional offices, leveraging its online platform to drive growth.

Pros of Redfin

• All-Inclusive Support: Agents receive comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, mileage reimbursements, and all marketing expenses, which sets Redfin apart from most brokerages.

• Consistent Lead Flow: With 50 million of monthly visitors to Redfin.com, agents benefit from high-quality leads without needing to engage in cold-calling or pay for advertising.
• Work-Life Balance: The W-2 model provides job stability, competitive benefits, and career growth opportunities, appealing to agents seeking a more structured work environment.

Cons of Redfin

• Lower Flexibility in Splits: While the 75% commission split is competitive, it applies only to self-generated deals, and agents receive a lower percentage for company-generated leads.
• Focus on Employee Model: Agents used to the autonomy of independent contractor status may find Redfin’s employee structure restrictive, as it emphasizes compliance and customer service standards.
• Limited Appeal for Entrepreneurs: Although Redfin’s model offers excellent benefits, it may not suit entrepreneurial agents who prefer building their own brand and business structure independently.

Redfin stands out as a tech-powered brokerage, offering a blend of job security, lead generation, and comprehensive benefits.

This model is ideal for agents seeking a stable, benefits-rich environment with a focus on closing transactions rather than traditional business development tasks.

Century21

Century 21 commission splits are set by individual franchised offices, so terms can vary by market and brokerage.

Many new agents start with a more conservative split (often around a 50/50-style arrangement), meaning agents take home about half of their earned commission while the rest goes to the brokerage.

In addition to the split, agents may pay office-specific fees—some Century 21 offices include a franchise/royalty-style fee component (commonly listed as 6% in franchise materials) and per-transaction fees, and the exact amounts depend on the franchise location and plan.

As agents gain experience and production, they can often negotiate more favorable splits—sometimes reaching 70/30+ or even 100% commission-style plans—typically in exchange for monthly and/or per-transaction fees.

Performance Metrics

• Transactions: With a strong national presence, Century21 facilitates thousands of transactions annually, contributing to its reputation as a dependable brokerage for both agents and clients.
• Agent Count: 126,000+ independent agents in ~11,000 offices across 79 countries and territories.
• Brokerages: Century21 operates as a franchise model, with individual offices in numerous cities across the U.S., giving agents local expertise and support while leveraging the brand’s global reach.

Pros of Century21

• Brand Recognition and Trust: Century21 is a long-established brand, providing agents with instant credibility and access to a broad client base. This can be particularly helpful for new agents looking to build a presence in competitive markets.
• Mentorship and Training Programs: Many Century21 offices offer structured mentorship during the first few transactions, ensuring that new agents receive the guidance they need to succeed.
• Flexibility in Commission Splits: While the initial split may be 50/50, many franchises offer paths for agents to achieve better splits (like 70/30 or 100%) once they meet specific sales goals or production thresholds.

Cons of Century 21

• Lower Starting Splits: A 50/50 split can be less competitive compared to some other brokerages that offer higher initial splits, which may deter agents focused on maximizing immediate earnings.
• Franchise Fees: In addition to commission splits, agents must cover a portion of the 8% franchise fee, which could impact overall profitability for those just starting out or working with lower transaction volumes].
• Varying Office Policies: Since Century21 operates under a franchise model, policies—including commission splits and fees—can vary significantly from one location to another. Agents need to research local offices to understand the specifics of their compensation package.

Century21 is an attractive choice for agents looking for a strong brand and structured support, particularly those just starting in the industry.

Its mentorship programs and extensive network offer valuable learning opportunities, though agents must carefully weigh the franchise fees and split structure against their earning potential and long-term career goals.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is a franchise network, so commission splits are set by the local office and can vary by market.

New agents often start with a more conservative split (for example, around 60/40 in many offices), while experienced, higher-producing agents may be able to negotiate more favorable terms over time (such as 80/20 or better, depending on the office and production).

In addition to the split, some offices charge additional fees—such as transaction, tech/desk, or royalty-style brand fees—so it’s important to request a written breakdown of the full fee structure from the specific BHHS office you’re considering.

Performance Metrics

• Sales Volume: The network closed roughly $127.7 billion in residential sales volume during 2024
• Agent Count: It now comprises about 45,000 real-estate professionals working from nearly 1,500+ offices across 11 countries and territories.
• Brokerages: BHHS operates through hundreds of independently owned franchise offices in major U.S. markets and global hubs such as Dubai, London, and Madrid, each offering its own mix of support services and commission structures.

Pros of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

• Brand Power and Prestige: As part of the Berkshire Hathaway conglomerate, the brokerage offers unmatched brand credibility, which is particularly attractive to clients in the luxury market.
• Flexible Commission Structures: Agents can negotiate improved commission splits as they grow their sales volume, offering long-term financial growth opportunities.
• Comprehensive Training and Tools: New agents benefit from hands-on training, marketing resources, and CRM tools through the REsource Center, helping them manage clients and transactions more efficiently.

Cons of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

• Higher Starting Fees and Splits: New agents may find the 60/40 split less competitive, especially compared to other brokerages offering higher initial splits. Additionally, ongoing royalty fees can cut into earnings.
• Limited Lead Generation for New Agents: Some agents report challenges in finding leads and business opportunities early in their careers, making it more suitable for experienced professionals with established networks.
• Emphasis on Luxury Market: While the focus on high-end properties offers high earning potential, agents working outside this niche may find fewer opportunities.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is ideal for agents seeking to work with a globally recognized luxury brand. Its commission flexibility and extensive resources attract seasoned professionals, while new agents benefit from structured training.

However, those just starting may need to evaluate if the brand’s fee structure and luxury focus align with their business goals.

Sotheby’s International Realty

At Sotheby’s International Realty, commission splits are set by the local affiliate brokerage, since the brand operates through an independently owned and operated affiliate network. That means starting splits (and whether there’s any cap or tier system) can vary by market and office policy.

In many cases, experienced agents with strong production can negotiate more favorable terms over time (such as 80/20 or better, depending on the office), and the split may improve as agents demonstrate performance and close higher-value deals—so it’s best to request a written breakdown of splits, caps, and fees from the specific Sotheby’s office you’re considering.

Performance Metrics

• Transactions: Sotheby’s focuses primarily on luxury real estate, often closing multi-million-dollar transactions. Their 2024 annual sales volume reached $157 billion, reflecting the demand for high-end properties they specialize in.
• Agent Count: The company has over 26,100 agents spread across 1,100 offices in 84 countries, providing extensive global reach.
• Brokerages: Operating through an affiliate model, Sotheby’s maintains a presence in key markets like New York, Miami, London, and Hong Kong, reinforcing its luxury brand identity.

Pros of Sotheby’s International Realty

• Global Network and Prestige: With unparalleled access to affluent clientele and premium listings, Sotheby’s offers agents unique opportunities through its referral network and association with the prestigious auction house.
• Advanced Marketing Tools: Agents benefit from robust marketing resources and broad digital exposure. In 2024, Sotheby’s International Realty reported that its website attracted 33M+ visitors, agent-produced videos were viewed 65M+ times, and its 1.2M social followers generated 1.8M engagements—helping maximize listing visibility and reach.
• Focus on Professional Growth: Sotheby’s provides access to high-level training and development programs, leveraging insights from global real estate experts and industry leaders.

Cons of Sotheby’s International Realty

• Commission Split and Costs: The 70/30 split, while competitive, may still be challenging for new agents unfamiliar with luxury markets. Agents must also cover additional costs, such as marketing and operational fees, which are typical in a high-end brokerage.
• Luxury Market Focus: The brokerage’s primary focus on luxury properties may not align with agents working in other real estate segments, limiting opportunities for those outside high-end markets.
• Performance Expectations: While the brand offers prestige, agents must meet demanding performance standards to thrive, as the market is competitive and driven by referrals and high transaction values.

Sotheby’s International Realty stands out as an ideal choice for agents seeking to work within the luxury segment.

With its expansive network, prestigious reputation, and advanced tools, the brokerage provides significant opportunities, though it may suit more experienced professionals better than those just starting in real estate.

RE/MAX

RE/MAX offices are independently owned and operated, so commission plans can vary by location.

Many offices are known for a high-payout model that pairs a very high commission split with a monthly desk fee. Other offices offer alternative arrangements—such as a lower split with reduced or no monthly desk fee, or even flat-fee models—so newer agents can choose a structure that better fits their cash flow.

Because costs and terms vary by brokerage and experience level, it’s smart to request a written breakdown of splits and all fees from the specific RE/MAX office you’re considering.

Performance Metrics

• Transactions: RE/MAX agents are among the most productive in the industry, often closing more deals per agent compared to competitors.
• Agent Count: The brokerage employs over 147,547 agents globally, with 74,198 in the U.S. and Canada as of 2025.
• Brokerages: With thousands of franchises worldwide, RE/MAX maintains a vast network across diverse markets, enabling agents to access both local expertise and international exposure.

Pros of RE/MAX

• High Commission Retention: Many RE/MAX offices are known for high commission splits (often paired with a monthly desk fee), which can be highly appealing to experienced agents who can afford the overhead and want to maximize take-home earnings per sale.
• Global Network and Brand Recognition: With a strong global presence, RE/MAX offers significant branding power, helping agents attract clients and close deals faster.
• Flexible Payment Plans: The Alternative Payment Plan provides an option for agents who want to avoid upfront desk fees, making RE/MAX accessible to newer agents working to establish themselves.

Cons of RE/MAX

• Steep Desk Fees: In offices that use a desk-fee model, the monthly fee can be a challenge during slow months or when just starting out.
• Franchise Model Variation: Commission splits and fees can vary significantly across RE/MAX offices, leading to inconsistency in agent support and resources across regions.
• Pressure to Perform: With high desk fees, agents need to consistently close deals to justify the cost, which could be stressful for those in slower markets or early in their careers.

RE/MAX remains an attractive option for agents seeking autonomy. For new agents, they may benefit from the great commission split too.

Keller Williams Realty

Keller Williams Realty is the largest real estate franchise by agent count, with more than 161,000 affiliated agentsacross more than 1,000 market center offices worldwide. Known for a culture centered on education, technology, and profit-sharing, Keller Williams ranks consistently high in transaction volume and was ranked No. 1 real estate franchise in the U.S. by agent count, transaction sides, and sales volume (2024).

The education aspect is what makes Keller Williams a great real estate brokerage for new agents.

Agents at Keller Williams typically operate on a 70/30 commission split—70% of the commission goes to the agent, while 30% goes to the brokerage until a cap is reached. Once the agent reaches the cap (which varies by market), they retain 100% of commissions for the rest of the year. Additionally, the company’s profit-sharing model allows agents to earn passive income based on the brokerage’s profitability.

In 2024, Keller Williams achieved $370.8 billion in U.S. sales volume across 828,875 U.S. transaction sides. This high transaction volume underscores its effectiveness in empowering agents with tools and training to succeed at scale.

Keller Williams boasts more than 1,000 market center offices and 161,000 affiliated agents, making it not only the largest franchise by headcount but also a leader in units and sales volume in the U.S.

Pros of Keller Williams:

• Education and Training: Keller Williams offers extensive coaching and mentorship programs, making it ideal for new agents looking for growth and development opportunities.
• Profit-Sharing Program: Agents benefit from the unique profit-share structure, earning passive income based on office performance, which builds a collaborative culture.
• Technology-Driven: Proprietary tools, like the Command CRM platform, help agents manage leads and transactions efficiently.

Cons of Keller Williams:

• Variable Market Caps: The commission cap is set by individual offices and can vary significantly based on local economic conditions, which may impact agent profitability.
• High Agent Count: The sheer size of Keller Williams can create intense internal competition among agents, particularly in saturated markets.

This balanced approach makes Keller Williams an attractive choice for new agents, especially those seeking a strong support network and opportunities for growth.

However, potential agents should carefully evaluate market conditions and cap rates in their area to ensure the best fit for their business goals.

Final Thought on Best Real Estate Brokerages for New Agents

Choosing the right brokerage is a crucial step for new real estate agents looking to build a successful career. Each of these top brokerages—whether it’s the virtual flexibility of eXp Realty, the tech-driven approach of Compass, or the luxury market focus of Sotheby’s International Realty—offers unique advantages and challenges.

Agents must carefully weigh factors like commission splits, fees, training programs, and market specialization to find a brokerage that aligns with their goals.

By evaluating their priorities and understanding each company’s strengths, agents can position themselves for growth, profitability, and long-term success in the competitive real estate industry.