Frequently Asked Questions
Maybe you have a few questions about becoming a real estate agent and joining Keller Williams. That’s okay; most people do. Here is a quick collection of some of the questions people ask us, along with our answers. If you still have a question, don’t hesitate to contact us anytime. We would be happy to answer it for you.
Q: Why choose Keller Williams Realty?
A: There are many reasons to choose Keller Williams Realty as the place to run your real estate business, but training and education top the list. With Keller Williams University, Ignite, KW Connect, and many other education outlets, you have a proven model to follow to take your business from surviving to thriving. This, along with support, culture, technology, and profit sharing make Keller Williams stand out from other companies.
Q: What does it cost to get started with Keller Williams?
A: A career in real estate does require a financial commitment. Licensing course fees, Board of Realtors membership dues, and other business expenses (phone, computer, office supplies, personal marketing, etc.) are just a few of the expenses you need to consider when getting started. On average, the start-up costs associated with this range from $500 to $1500.
Q: What type of real estate training is provided for new agents?
A: Training is where we set ourselves apart from the competition. Ignite is new agent training designed to have you go from surviving to thriving in your new career. It covers everything from contracts to lead generation to successfully managing your new business. Also, with the resources at Keller Williams University and KW Connect, there will be no shortage of educational opportunities.
Q: I want to take Keller Williams training courses. When can I start Ignite?
A: We do have the best training in the real estate industry. This is only for licensed associates. Once you get your real estate license, you will have access to all of our extensive training programs and help from leadership to grow your business.
Q: Does Keller Williams Realty provide financial assistance to help me get my real estate license?
A: Unfortunately, we do not provide financial assistance, but we do provide the best training, education, support and culture in the industry. Don’t be enticed by companies that offer this option. This is usually the extent of their support in your real estate career.
Q: What real estate school should I choose? Are online schools a good option?
A: As long as the real estate school is accredited by your state, choose the one you like best. Some states have online real estate schools where you can complete the courses from the comfort of your own home. This allows you to finish the courses at your own pace and start your new career much faster. This is a great alternative to sitting in a classroom and online courses are what we suggest. Be sure to check out your state’s licensing page to find the school that is right for you. Remember, the real training comes once you join Keller Williams Realty!
Q: What is the commission split at Keller Williams Realty?
A: As a Keller Williams agent, you will work off an anniversary year with a “cap” or a maximum amount of money the broker can take out of your commissions during a given year (The cap is directly related to the operating expenses of your local office). You start on a 70/30 split. 70% to you, 30% to the office. When the 30% to the office reaches a set amount, you’re at 100% on all transactions you do until your anniversary year starts over again. If you don’t reach the cap, you are not required to pay the office the difference.
Q: Can I set my own schedule?
A: As an independent contractor, you are free to do business on your own terms and are not required to work 75+ hours a week. The model we provide will teach you time management and how to successfully run your new business. Our real estate business model is designed to work with a normal business week (35-40 hours). Follow the model and your career will flourish and your personal time will increase.
Q: Where will I find leads/clients?
A: We have a saying at Keller Williams. “We don’t give you the fish, we teach you how to catch your own.” Lead generation is the key to being successful in the real estate industry, so it’s important to learn how to do it. We provide you with many different lead generation methods including Internet lead conversions, contacting Expired/Withdrawn listings, For Sale By Owners (FSBOs), Open Houses, Door Knocking, etc. Using these tools will ensure you are making enough contacts to be as successful as you want to be.
Q: Is Keller Williams a competing broker?
A: No. The team leaders/managers of the offices are not out there competing for business against you. We see this as a conflict of interest. The main goal of our support staff is to help build your real estate business, acting as a mentor to take your career from new associate to mega agent. No brokerage does it better than KW!
Q: Can I work as a part-time agent with Keller Williams?
A: Although it’s not impossible, a part-time agent is not likely to be as successful as a full-time agent. Part-time agents usually are unable to attend required training courses and sales meetings and are not readily available to service their clients and customers. At KW we feel that our company gives you 100% of the tools, training, technology, and managerial support needed to be a successful real estate agent. As a result, we expect a full-time 100% commitment from you, the sales professional.
Q: Why is Keller Williams training so important? I just finished state-accredited real estate school.
A: While the courses to obtain your real estate license provide you with basic knowledge of contracts, agency, ethics, and principles, they do not cover the most important information a new agent needs. Lead generation, marketing, and running your real estate business are key components to a solid career in real estate. At Keller Williams, we understand what it takes to become a successful real estate agent and provide a proven model to take your business to the highest level.
Q: I want to set up an interview, but I haven’t started my real estate courses. Why won’t anyone call me?
A: Don’t take this personally. We at RealEstateYo.com are active real estate agents ourselves and are unable to speak to everyone who is considering a career in real estate unless they have committed to starting the licensing process. Our FAQ answers most questions people have but, if we missed one, please reply to our email and we’ll happily get back to you with an answer.