How to find a good real estate broker to work for?

Newly licensed real estate agent - Where should I work - Big broker or small, team or no team?

• I just earned my real estate license and brokers license and have an employment opportunity with two contrasting companies. First is with the largest and most reputable broker in the state. They offer a great 3-week training program and would like for me to join a successful and established team that specializes in new construction. I like that this company has excellent structure and is reputable. The second opportunity is with a younger broker/firm who has been in business for 9 years. They specialize in foreclosures and HUDS. They are offering a better split in addition to lots of freedom and flexibility. What I really like is that they are guaranteeing me X-number of leads a week which is ideal for a new Realtor like me. Unfortunately there is no formal training program with this broker. However, I will be assigned a mentor who will be showing me the ropes for as long as I need. Any thoughts?

• Answer:

  The "guaranteed leads" are a joke. They are running a newspaper ad and may (or may not) funnel some of those leads to you but you could run a newpaper ad also, and you really can't hold them to the "guarantee". Having said that the 2nd one still may be best, but maybe not - depends on you. The main point is, can you get up and running and moving all on your own or would it best nice to have more support (at least for now). I never worked for a large broker and never will and I did just fine, but its not for everyone. If you are a self starter and think you can plow through all problems on your own then go with the smaller firm. If you need some help, at least for now, the larger may be better (though it still may be tough going).