Russel, since you provide so little information, the temptation to suggest you 'go git train'n' is very strong, but I know that is the worst advise possible. Following THAT advise will get the same results we've expereince over the decades......nearly 90% of newbies NEVER see the 2nd year anniversary!

What should you do?

#1. Understand you are a small business owner, not an employee. And like ANY responsible small business owner, you must have a business plan. This is when you want to buy a coffee and cheese danish and invite some experienced agents for a chat. They may give you exceptional insight regarding the goals of your business plan.

#2. When you interview brokers, find the one who can make YOUR business plan, not theirs work.

#3. Select only a brokers who office has evidence of success. The average number of annual transactions PER AGENT should be above 15. The results are telling you the systems, compensation, infrastructure, mentoring, etc, in that office is working. Now all you need to do is follow directions.

Now, you will find taking the Genius and Passion test (hopefully it is part of the brokers process) indispensable in structuring your business and joining or creating the proper team.

Best of success to you.

The truth is, every company is set up different and EVERY BROKER WITHIN THAT COMPANY IS DIFFERENT. I picked Keller Williams because they are the only realty company that has an intra-dependant model. I have had a very strong sense of support from my particular brokerage. You should be asking about what is important to you. How much commission you get initially and long term. What different charities to they partcipate in? What are the different start up costs and how much support will I get in the beggining? If you have any questions feel free to ask me, I always love to help others learn, as I am learning as well.  Good Luck :) 

Russell Alton If you are new to the business, look for a company that has a good mentoring program.

I would make a list of what you need from a brokerage, and when you interview, see what their responses are.  I would talk to some of the agents there and ask them how they like being there. A

I started in real estate with several friends. We all went to different brokerages. Sadly I have not found a place I felt did a really great job across the board. I have found it better to find people you click with and they will help you more.

I went with the cheapest group I could find. My friends went with the bigger guys. I'm the only one still in real estate after more then 10 years.

Starting out I would suggest keeping expenses low and read a lot of books. Find a couple agents to help them out so they can help you out too.

Good Luck!

Annette nailed this one!

You need to know about the training and the support (your go-to people) what is furnished for you by the company and of course the commission structure and expenses they may charge you. Also I would want to know if they would be furnishing any leads to help you get started.

You will want to make sure you can get the advice and supervision you need. The commission shouldn't be your deciding factor. You have to make a decision based upson what will work for you and give you the chance to get a great start in this business. 

I believe all new agents should go with big name firms, Coldwell Banker for instance.  They have training.  When you go with a 100% agency in the beginning you learn nothing, you make mistakes, you get frustrated and you don't make friends.  Friends who will allow you to sit their open houses and get customers.

Talk with the RE/MAX owners in the area and look for an environment of high producers and a very professional setting. Being around the best agents every day is a great incentive for high production.