How We Get Started
A straightforward path from curiosity to a real estate career. We'll guide you through each step.
Watch & Learn
Essential videos to help you understand the real estate journey
Why Start in a Down Market?
Discover why the best real estate agents often start their careers during market downturns. Learn about skill building, competitive advantage, and long-term success.
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Let's Talk
Reach out to us. We'll discuss your goals, answer your questions, and help you understand what a real estate career actually looks like. No pressure—just honest conversation.
What to expect:
- 15-30 minute conversation
- Learn what we're about
- Discuss your interests and questions
Get Licensed
If you're not already licensed, we'll guide you through the process. We provide resources, study materials, and support to help you prepare. Many of our agents started with no real estate background.
We recommend:
- Colibri Real Estate Education
- Study materials and practice exams
- Support from our team
Onboarding & Support
Once you're licensed and ready, we'll onboard you into our team. You'll get structured training, ongoing mentorship, and the tools you need to build a sustainable business.
Your first 90 days include:
- Structured training
- Ongoing mentorship
- Systems and tools
- Community and peer support
Choosing the Right Brokerage
Not all brokerages are created equal. Learn what really matters when making this critical decision.
What Really Matters
Learning Speed
The best brokerage helps you become competent faster. Look for structured training, clear standards, and honest feedback.
Mentorship and Support
Access to mentors who have already solved the problems you will face. This accelerates your success and reduces your learning curve.
Clear Expectations
Understand what success looks like and what is expected of you. Transparency builds trust and sets you up for long-term success.
Community
A supportive environment where you are not alone. Peer mentorship and community make the difference between staying and leaving.
The Bottom Line: Three out of four new agents leave real estate within five years, primarily due to lack of training and support. The right brokerage is not about the best commission split or the biggest name—it is about an environment that helps you become competent faster.
Why RE/MAX Platinum?
Industry Leadership
- #1 in brand name awareness
- Most trusted real estate agents in US and Canada
- 11.7 average transaction sides per agent
- 8 out of 10 homebuyers know RE/MAX
Technology & Tools
- RE/MAX University: 2,000+ training videos
- MAXTech: AI-powered CRM and business tools
- remax.com: Lead generation platform
- 938k leads generated for agents in 2024
Build Your Business
You're now licensed and ready. You have the training, the tools, the mentorship, and a community that supports you. It's time to build your business at your own pace.
You'll have:
- Ongoing training and support
- Access to resources and tools
- Peer mentorship
- A supportive community
What Does It Cost to Become a Realtor in Michigan?
Understanding the real costs—both upfront and ongoing—helps you make an informed decision.
Getting Started Costs
Pre-Licensing Course
State-approved education
$125–$300
License Application Fee
State of Michigan
$88
State Exam Fee
Per attempt
$79
Brokerage Fees
Varies by brokerage (negotiable)
Varies
Ongoing Professional Costs
MLS Access
Multiple Listing Service (per quarter)
$99/quarter
Local Realtor Board Dues
Greater Metropolitan Association of REALTORS (GMAR)
~$60/month
Note: Costs and fees can change over time and may vary based on board, MLS, or membership options. These figures reflect current Michigan standards but are subject to change.
Real Estate Commission Splits & Caps
Understand how commission structures work and what to look for when evaluating a brokerage.
Key Takeaways
Commission Structure Basics
Learn how commissions are split between brokerages, agents, and teams.
Commission Caps
Understand what commission caps are and how they affect your earnings potential.
Negotiating Your Split
Tips for negotiating a fair commission split based on your experience and production.
Why Start in a Down Market?
Discover why the best real estate agents often start their careers during market downturns.
Why This Matters
Skill Building
Down markets force you to develop real sales skills instead of relying on market momentum.
Competitive Advantage
Agents who start in down markets are better prepared for market cycles and long-term success.
Long-Term Success
Agents who learn during tough times build sustainable careers that last through all market conditions.
Free Michigan Real Estate Exam Prep Guide
Get our comprehensive study guide with 115 practice questions, detailed explanations, and everything you need to pass the Michigan real estate salesperson exam.
What's Included:
- 120+ pages of comprehensive study material
- 115 full-length practice questions
- Answer key with detailed explanations
- Michigan-specific exam content
- Exam scheduling and licensing information
Common Questions
Do I need experience?
No. We've trained agents from all backgrounds—teachers, engineers, nurses, and more. If you're interested and willing to learn, we'll support you.
What's the commission split?
We offer fair, transparent commission structures. We'll discuss the details during our conversation so you understand exactly how it works.
Can I do this part-time?
Yes. Many of our agents start part-time while building their business. You're in control of your schedule and your growth.
What if I fail my license exam?
We'll support you through retakes. Our mentors have been there. We believe in you and will help you succeed.