What is the RE/MAX commission split?

For established or aspiring Realtors, choosing the right brokerage can set the tone for your entire career. With RE/MAX, you get the best of both worlds: a strong international presence, combined with a recognizable brand that goes hand-in-hand with trust. You can rest easy knowing that your clients will see you as a reliable, respected source of real estate expertise.

At the end of the day, though, Realtors need to earn a living, and you need to consider commission structure before joining a brokerage. RE/MAX's commission splits are some of the most competitive in the industry, so you don't have to sacrifice your earnings or needs to join a quality brokerage. With a flexible split structure, agents can tailor their commission based on your performance and sales. 

Here’s what you need to know about RE/MAX’s commission split for Realtors in 2023.

An overview of RE/MAX 

RE/MAX is one of the most-recognized real estate brokerages in the world, known for offering high-quality services to buyers and sellers in more than 100 countries. Throughout its half-century existence, it’s achieved a solid reputation as a reliable and efficient service provider. 

The company prides itself on the strength of its network, which consists of over 135,000 highly skilled real estate professionals who handle a wide range of properties, including as residential, commercial, luxury, and agricultural. 

RE/MAX agents are passionate about delivering the finest client care, and they seek to make the entire process of transacting property seamless and straightforward. The company also offers training programs and innovative tools for its agents, to ensure they’re up to date with the latest industry trends and technologies. 

In short, RE/MAX is a real estate powerhouse that keeps raising the bar with its excellent service delivery.

Pros of working with RE/MAX as a Realtor

Whether you’re an aspiring or experienced real estate agent, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in your career is choosing the right brokerage. While there are many options available, RE/MAX should be at the top of your list since, as a global leader in the industry, they have a lot to offer.

• Extensive brand recognition and reputation: RE/MAX is among the most recognizable and reputable real estate brands globally. It's synonymous with expertise, experience, and outstanding customer service. When you sign up with RE/MAX, you immediately become part of a winning team. The company's brand equity and reputation will benefit your business—clients will trust you more and recognize your capabilities.
• Robust training and support programs: RE/MAX provides some of the best industry training and support programs to its affiliated agents. Its highly sought-after education programs are renowned and equip agents with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the business. RE/MAX also provides coaching, mentorship, marketing tools, and administrative support to its agents. 
• Access to a vast network and resources: RE/MAX agents get access to an extensive network of experienced agents and the company's resources. The RE/MAX network comprises more than 130,000 agents, spread across 110 countries globally. This vast network provides numerous opportunities for collaboration, referrals, and mentorship. 
• Potential for higher earnings: One of the most attractive features of working with RE/MAX is the potential for higher earnings. RE/MAX provides a unique compensation model that rewards agents according to their performance. With the company's high brand recognition and access to extensive resources, agents have an exceptional opportunity to close more deals and increase their earnings. 

Cons of working with RE/MAX as a Realtor

While RE/MAX is often a top choice among agents in countries across the globe, there are potential downsides to working with the brokerage. Two of the most significant cons to consider before making your move include:

• Limited control over branding and marketing decisions: One of the most significant drawbacks of joining a franchise like RE/MAX is that you’ll likely experience limited control over branding and marketing decisions. The franchisor will generally dictate branding policies. This means you may not have as much control over the messaging surrounding your listings and property marketing. Being a “small fish in a big pond” can make it more challenging to differentiate your own voice and make a name for yourself.
• Competition among RE/MAX agents: Another potential downside to working with RE/MAX is that you may find yourself competing with other agents from your own brokerage. While internal competition may sound counter-intuitive, it’s a common problem in large brokerages like RE/MAX. Their large-scale franchising model means that agents often compete in the same market areas, leading to conflict and confusion for buyers and sellers. Additionally, the franchise fee structure may incentivize brokers to hire a large number of agents, which can lead to over-saturation of the market and increased competition.

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RE/MAX's commission split in 2023

For real estate agents looking to join RE/MAX, the company offers two distinct commission split plans. 

The first — the famous 95/5 split — is a great option for agents who are making consistent sales and don't mind paying a monthly desk fee. With this plan, RE/MAX takes only 5% of the agent's gross commission, leaving the rest for the agent to keep. Keep in mind, though, that you’re still required to pay the monthly desk fee — even if you’re making no sales. You can avoid the monthly desk fee if you choose an 80/20, 70/30, or 60/40 commission split.

The RE/MAX Alternative Payment Plan (RAPP) is the second choice, and a fantastic one for those just starting out in the industry or those who don't want to pay the monthly fee. Although agents will pay more of their commission to RE/MAX, they won't be saddled with the monthly desk fee, making it a great alternative for some. There are three levels of RAPP:

• 80/20 split. The agent gets 80% of the commision, while the broker gets 20%.
• 70/30 split. The agent gets 70% of the commission, while the broker gets 30%.
• 60/40 split. The agent gets 60% of the commission, while the broker gets 40%.

RE/MAX commission vs. other brokerages

For agents looking for a national real estate brokerage that offers a competitive commission split, RE/MAX is the broker to consider. 

With splits starting at 95/5, RE/MAX has a reputation for controlling commission splits and offering options that benefit the agent. For agents who require extra services such as advertisements, office space, or business cards, fees are also adjustable. This flexibility allows agents to find the right blend to fit their business needs. 

When comparing leading companies — such as Century 21 and Coldwell Banker, which both offer a 50/50 split — it’s clear why RE/MAX is the best real estate broker to work for, especially for those agents seeking a more advantageous commission split and higher earning potential.

RE/MAX is a no-brainer for Realtors

Whether you’re an established Realtor looking to switch brokerages or an aspiring Realtor searching for the right brokerage to call home, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of any commission split before making a decision — they have a significant impact on your earnings. While RE/MAX offers generous and even flexible commission splits, you need to do your research and consider your personal preferences when choosing a commission split. 

Some Realtors may prioritize a higher percentage of each commission, while others may prefer more support and resources from their brokerage — it all depends on your personal preferences. Taking the time to carefully evaluate your options can ultimately lead to a more successful and fulfilling real estate career.