Being part of a reputable and respected real estate brokerage is essential to long-term success in your career. A strong broker provides comprehensive training, a fair commission split, and ongoing professional support.
If you’re not fully satisfied with your current brokerage, making a change is entirely possible and often beneficial for your growth. Switching real estate brokerages may seem daunting at first, but the process is more straightforward than you might expect.
This post provides a guide to assist real estate agents in navigating the process of switching brokerages with confidence. Additionally, we will explain why joining Charles Rutenberg Realty is more than an intelligent business move—it’s an investment in career longevity.
How to Switch Brokerages as a Real Estate Agent and Join CRR
Real estate agents are required to work under a licensed broker to conduct transactions. However, as your career progresses, you may find that you’ve outgrown your initial firm. With experience comes clarity, enabling you to make more strategic decisions that drive your business’s long-term success.
In this post, we will further explore all agents, seasoned and new, need to know when switching brokerages. Furthermore, we’ll discuss what to consider before making the change, and why transitioning to Charles Rutenberg Realty is the right next step for your career.
What Is a Real Estate Brokerage?
A real estate brokerage is a licensed business that manages property transactions and affiliates with licensed agents and brokers. It provides the legal foundation, training, marketing tools, and administrative support that enable agents to represent buyers and sellers effectively.
Every agent must work under a brokerage, which ensures compliance with state laws, manages escrow accounts, and upholds ethical and legal standards in each transaction. However, brokerages vary in size and structure, ranging from small independent firms to large national franchises. Each offers distinct commission models, resources, and levels of professional support.
Can You Switch Brokerage Accounts as a Real Estate Agent?
Yes, real estate agents can switch brokerages—and many do. According to research, Florida agents in particular reach a median tenure of approximately five years. However, many switch brokerage accounts frequently during the beginning of their careers.
There are many reasons an agent may decide to move on, but choosing the right brokerage is critical to long-term success. The right firm should align with your business goals and provide the structure, tools, and support you need to grow.
While the idea of switching brokerages may seem intimidating, the process is straightforward with proper planning and professionalism.
Why a Realtor Should Consider a 100% Brokerage like Charles Rutenberg Realty
When you affiliate your business with Charles Rutenberg Reality, you join a brokerage that not only understands your ambitions, but actively fuels your success. From commission structures to unmatched support, you’re seamlessly able to advance your career to the next level. Here is what you can expect:
Keep 100% of Your Commission
New agents often begin their careers under a traditional brokerage model, earning a 50/50 commission split with their brokers. They gradually work toward higher percentages over time.
At Charles Rutenberg Realty, the approach is different. From day one, you keep 100% of your earned commission. Your only costs are a monthly membership fee and flat transaction fees, such as administrative and E&O fees.
This model allows you to retain a larger portion of your income immediately, eliminating the need to wait months or years for a higher split.
Take a look at our commission calculator to see how much you could be earning with us.
Have More Control Over Your Real Estate Business
Understanding your exact costs—such as transaction fees and memberships—gives you greater control over your business. Predictable expenses allow you to make informed, data-driven decisions when managing transactions and planning for growth.
Get Support and Access to Advanced Technology
Keeping 100% of your commission at Charles Rutenberg Realty does not mean sacrificing training or technological and professional support. Our brokerage provides advanced systems and software to help you manage client transactions efficiently.
We also offer comprehensive training in lead generation and marketing for Realtors. Both outlets equip you with the necessary tools to expand your client base and create lasting business growth.
Work Under a Reputable and Respected Name
For 25 years, Charles Rutenberg Realty has been redefining the real estate industry and setting the standard for excellence. Our reputation is built on exceptional agent onboarding, comprehensive support, and a commitment to superior client service.
Join more than 2,000 agents across the Tampa Bay area who proudly represent the Charles Rutenberg Realty name. Displaying our logo on your marketing materials reflects your dedication to professionalism, white-glove service, and the backing of a trusted brokerage.
How to Switch Real Estate Brokerages
Review your current contract.
When you began working with your current broker, you signed an agency or independent contractor agreement. This document outlines key terms of your professional relationship, including commission splits, ownership of listings and leads, outstanding fees, and any non-solicitation or non-compete clauses.
Before pursuing a new brokerage, carefully review your existing agreement to identify any conditions that may limit your transition. Understanding these terms protects your legal rights and helps you maintain positive professional relationships as you advance your career.
Choose your next brokerage intentionally.
Choosing a broker involves more than securing a favorable commission split. It incorporates the level of professional support, training, mentorship, culture, and transparency around fees.
Due to these factors, this decision has a lasting impact on your career. Take time to evaluate your options carefully and ensure your next move aligns with your professional goals and long-term growth.
Expert Tip: When evaluating potential brokerages, speak privately with current agents to gain insight into their experiences.
Handle pending deals and listings professionally.
As noted earlier, most brokers retain ownership of the listings their agents secure. For this reason, many agents choose to complete active transactions before transitioning to a new brokerage.
If your clients wish to continue working with you after the move, they must cancel their existing agreement with your current broker and re-sign under your new brokerage. While this may be appropriate in certain situations, it can sometimes result in additional costs for the client. Buyers will also need to sign a new buyer representation agreement reflecting your updated affiliation.
Always review your agency agreement to confirm whether you retain ownership of your leads and clients. This will clarify what you can bring with you to your new firm. Additionally, maintaining open communication with your current broker ensures a smooth transition and protects your professional relationships.
Switch your license before announcing publicly.
To begin working under your new broker, you must update the brokerage information associated with your license. You can do this through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), and your new broker will approve the change online. Once the update is processed, you can officially represent your new firm and begin updating your marketing materials.
Be sure to revise your online presence, including your open house signs, Zillow, Realtor.com, and social media profiles. Always use the brokerage’s exact legal name to remain compliant with Florida real estate regulations.
Afterward, share a professional announcement with your clients, expressing your enthusiasm about joining your new firm. However, wait to make any public announcements until the transition is fully complete and officially approved.
Switch to Charles Rutenberg Realty and keep 100% of your commission today.
Finding a brokerage doesn’t have to be complicated—especially when Charles Rutenberg Realty is actively welcoming new agents and offering a 100% commission structure. With no splits and reduced fees, you keep more of what you earn, allowing you to reinvest in your business. Additionally, you are not in this process alone—we combine financial freedom with the tools to thrive in a competitive market.
If you’re ready to transition to a brokerage that provides exclusive training, dedicated mentorship, advanced technology, and exceptional professional support, Charles Rutenberg Realty is the ideal choice. Learn more about what it means to be a CRR agent. Schedule a meeting with our team to see how we can help you achieve your real estate business goals.