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🧭 How to Choose the Right Real Estate Broker in Florida

This guide breaks down what to look for, questions to ask, and how to find the right fit.

Jon Carissimo avatar
Written by Jon Carissimo
Updated over 8 months ago

Choosing the right broker is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a new real estate agent. Your broker determines how you get paid, what support and training you receive, and the kind of company you’ll represent in your new career.

🔍 What Is a Real Estate Broker?

In Florida, you must register under a licensed broker to activate your real estate license. The broker is responsible for overseeing your activities and ensuring legal compliance.

Until you’re working under a broker, you cannot legally practice real estate—even if you’ve passed your exam.

👉 Check your license status here:


💼 What to Consider When Choosing a Broker

Every brokerage is different. Here are a few key areas to compare:

🧠 Training & Mentorship

  • Do they offer onboarding or mentorship for new agents?

  • Will someone help guide you through your first deals?

💸 Commission Split

  • What percentage of the commission do you keep?

  • Are there desk fees, monthly fees, or transaction fees?

🛠️ Tools & Technology

  • Do they provide a CRM, website, email tools, or marketing templates?

  • Will you need to purchase any third-party tools yourself?

🌐 Brand & Reputation

  • Is the brokerage well-known in your area?

  • Do they have good reviews and a strong online presence?

🏘️ Niche or Specialty

  • Do they focus on a particular market (luxury, commercial, first-time buyers)?

  • Does this align with your career goals?


❓Questions to Ask a Broker Before Joining

Use these questions in your interviews:

  • What is the commission structure, and are there caps or bonuses?

  • What kind of training or mentorship is provided?

  • What marketing resources or leads do you provide?

  • How many new agents joined your office in the past year?

  • What makes your brokerage different from others?


📣 Attend a Career Fair or Live Info Session

Want to meet multiple brokers in one place?

Join one of our Real Estate Career Fairs or live broker sessions to ask questions, hear from top companies, and find your best fit.


🧭 Next Steps After Choosing a Broker

Once you’ve found the right brokerage:

  1. Ask the broker to add you to their license via DBPR’s online portal

  2. Log into your account at myfloridalicense.com

  3. Verify that your status is now “Active

You’re now ready to begin your career as a licensed real estate professional!


🎓 Still Need Post-Licensing?

If this is your first renewal, you’ll need to complete 45 hours of post-licensing. Many brokers will ask if you’ve completed this when hiring.

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