Interviewing a Brokerage? Why You Should Ask the Agents, Not Just the Broker

How do you really know if a real estate brokerage is the right fit for your career?
Most agents start by booking an interview with the broker or recruiter. You sit down, they share their pitch, and everything sounds polished. Positive. Promising.

But here’s the truth: most brokerages will take anyone with a real estate license and a pulse. Especially if you're new or doing enough production to look profitable on paper. That doesn’t mean they’re the right place to grow your business.

Some real estate companies will bring on any agent simply because even one home sale a year helps their bottom line. But they’re not looking at what you need—they’re looking at what you can do for them. And that’s where many agents make a mistake.

You Hold the Power When Choosing a Real Estate Brokerage

If you're trying to figure out how to choose the right real estate brokerage, remember this: it’s not about whether they want you. It’s about whether they deserve you.

You bring the value. Your license, your energy, your relationships, your drive. That’s what moves the needle.

So yes, it’s smart to prepare questions to ask a real estate broker in an interview. But understand: brokers and recruiters are professional salespeople. They know how to sell the dream. They’ve practiced answers to every question you can Google. They know what sounds good.

And if you're not careful, you’ll sign with a real estate brokerage based on personality and promises—only to realize two years later that your career hasn’t moved at all.

Want the Truth? Talk to the Agents Already There

The only way to really evaluate a brokerage is to speak with the agents who work there. Not the recruiter. Not the broker. The agents.

Here’s how to dig deeper:

1. Visit the brokerage’s website or local agent roster on Zillow.

2. Look for agents who’ve been there a while—or a mix of new and experienced.

3. Reach out to 3–5 of them. Text. Call. DM. Ask questions like:

   • How long have you been with this brokerage?

   • What kind of support or training do you actually receive?

   • Can you reach your broker easily when you need help?

   • What do you love most about working there?

   • Is there anything you wish they’d do better?

These agents don’t get a bonus if you join. They have no reason to sell you anything. Which means what they say will probably be the most honest review you’ll get.

Don’t Fall for Flash Over Fit

Some of the most polished real estate brokerages aren’t the best place to build your business. A sleek presentation and big promises don’t mean much if the day-to-day support just isn’t there.

Ask yourself:

• Does this brokerage align with how I want to do real estate?

• Will they support my goals—or fit me into their system?

• Am I walking into a growth environment—or a revolving door?

Final Takeaway

If you're serious about growing your real estate career, especially in a market like Northeast Florida, don’t base your brokerage decision on a great pitch. Base it on real support, culture, and results.

So yes—interview the broker. But more importantly, interview the agents. That’s how you find a real estate company that’s built for more than just recruiting numbers.

At CrossView Realty, we encourage you to ask the tough questions.
If you're exploring your options and looking for a brokerage in Jacksonville, St. Augustine, or surrounding Northeast Florida that truly supports your growth, start by talking to our agents. Then decide if we're the right fit for you.