One important factor in helping you establish your client base is the office you chose to join. To do business in every state, your license will require that you affiliate with a firm that is managed by a licensed broker. This will be an important decision because your broker will be instrumental in guiding your new career. Also, the opportunities available at your office will greatly influence your success. You will want to interview several brokers and carefully research what their firms have to offer before making a decision.

For the new sales associate training is a critical issue, as you will quickly need to master some basic sales, listing and financial skills. A company should be able to offer you access to training in a variety of formats: in-office, group sessions and field training. They should cover a wide range of topics and have qualified instructors and quality materials. Find out when the courses are offered and what the costs are.

Determine what the real estate company will be able to offer you. Do they have a good location with high visibility? Are the facilities modern? Do they offer a wide range of services to clients? A company policy clearly stated in writing? What will be your commission split with the broker?

Take a close look at the firm's visibility. How much advertising and what type of advertising? Will it bring you new business? Does the firm have good name recognition in the community? The firm should also have affiliations with national organizations that will provide you with opportunities for referral and relocation business. They should be actively involved in REALTOR trade associations to ensure high standards.

Take a close look at the existing sales staff. Do they look successful? Do they look like they enjoy their work? What measure of success have the sales associates achieved? And very important, will you feel comfortable working with these people?

There are many options when choosing a firm: large, small, franchises, and independents, single offices and multi-office companies. Look carefully at what each has to offer.

If you are a talented, ambitious person looking for exciting new opportunities perhaps real estate is the career for you.