What’s the Difference Between a Brokerage That’s Part of Your Local Board of REALTORS® and One That’s Just a Referral Company?
You’re wondering, “Should I be a referral REALTOR® or join a traditional brokerage?” Here’s how to tell which path fits your goals—and what each choice really offers behind the scenes.
Snippet Answer
A brokerage that’s part of your local Board of REALTORS® offers full access to the MLS, mentorship, branding tools, and the ability to actively represent buyers and sellers. A referral‑only company lets you keep your license and earn passive income—but you won’t be doing traditional transactions or building a sales-based business.
What It Means to Be Board‑Affiliated
When you join a full-service brokerage that’s a member of the local Board of REALTORS®, you gain the tools and credibility needed to grow a real estate career. This includes:
MLS access and REALTOR® status – You can list properties, work with buyers, and participate in co-op transactions.
Structured support – You’ll receive training, mentorship, and transaction assistance that sets you up for long-term success.
Professional branding – As a REALTOR®, you can leverage trusted branding and resources recognized by consumers nationwide.
Community and education – Local boards offer networking, advocacy, CE classes, and connection to the broader industry.
This setup is ideal if you’re ready to treat real estate as a business and want the full suite of tools to build it.
What a Referral-Only Company Offers
Referral brokerages are designed for agents who aren’t actively practicing but want to keep their license and earn income through referrals.
No Board or MLS dues – You save on membership costs because you’re not doing direct transactions.
Simple, passive model – You refer clients to active agents and collect a fee—usually 20–30% of the commission—when the deal closes.
Low commitment – It’s a great option if you’re semi-retired, relocating, or focused on another career.
Minimal support needed – Since you’re not managing contracts or negotiations, there’s no need for training or brokerage oversight.
Just know: you won’t be able to use REALTOR® branding, access the MLS, or legally represent clients directly.
Who Should Consider Each Model?
A traditional, Board‑affiliated brokerage might be right for you if:
You want to actively build a client base and grow your business
You value mentorship, local reputation, and full brokerage support
You need MLS access and listing capabilities
A referral‑only brokerage could be the better fit if:
You’re stepping back from sales but still want to earn through your network
You want to keep your license active with minimal time and cost
You’re transitioning, relocating, or focusing on another career path
Final Takeaway
Still asking yourself, should I be a referral REALTOR® or pursue traditional real estate? The answer depends on your goals. If you want to build something big, go with a full-service, REALTOR®-affiliated brokerage. If you want to stay in the game without full-time commitment, a referral model could be perfect.
Your Next Step
If you’re looking to grow your career at a traditional brokerage with full REALTOR® benefits, training, and support—check out CrossView Realty.
📞 Call 904-503-0672 or request a confidential meeting at joincrossviewrealty.com
If you’re leaning toward the referral path, CrossView Referral Realty makes it easy to keep your license active and earn income from your network.
🌐 Visit crossviewreferralrealty.com
