When to tell your broker

The right time to notify your current broker is after you have confirmed your next opportunity.

That means you should already know which new brokerage you are joining, understand the commission split, marketing support, and independent contractor agreement, and have verified that your real estate license transfer process is ready to begin.

Do not tell your broker while you are still casually exploring another firm. Agents leave for many reasons, but uncertainty creates confusion for your clients and for your brokerage.

You should also review any agreement you signed with your current brokerage. Look closely at notice requirements, exit clauses, and how ongoing transactions are handled legally.

If you have active listings or pending contracts, timing becomes even more important. A smooth transition protects your real estate commission and your client relationships.

In most cases, a short, direct meeting or phone call with your broker directly is the best approach.

What to say in the conversation

The conversation does not need to be long or emotional.

Start by being clear and professional. Tell your broker that you have decided to resign and that you are leaving your real estate brokerage to move to another brokerage.

You can say something like, “I want to let you know I’ve made the decision to move to a new firm and begin a transition to a new brokerage.”

Explain briefly why you want to leave. Keep it focused on growth, opportunity, independence, or changes in your business goals. For example, better support, a different commission split, or a structure that fits how you want to work as an agent.

Thank your current broker for the support and mentorship you received. Even if the relationship with your broker has been difficult, professionalism matters.

Before ending the meeting, confirm next steps. Ask how your license transfer will be handled, how to manage ongoing transactions, and how your listings and contracts will be processed during the exit.

This is not a debate. It is a professional resignation.

What not to say when leaving a brokerage

This is not the time to vent.

Avoid criticizing the broker, leadership, or the firm. Even if the broker isn’t supportive or you have experienced problems, negative comments rarely help your transition.

Do not threaten legal action, compare your new broker to your current brokerage, or talk about internal problems in the office.

Avoid discussing confidential information, commission structures of other agents, or internal marketing systems.

Also avoid making promises you cannot keep. For example, do not imply that you will take clients or listings without confirming what your agreement allows.

The goal is to communicate your decision clearly and move forward without conflict.

How to leave on good terms

Leaving on good terms is one of the most valuable assets you can protect in your real estate career.

Real estate is a relationship-driven business. Your former broker, office manager, or fellow agents may become future referral partners, past clients may follow you across brokerages, and reputations travel quickly in local markets.

Start by giving notice exactly as required in your independent contractor agreement. Some firms require written resignation, others allow email or formal notice through their office system.

Be proactive about your checklist. Confirm how marketing materials, signs, websites, and platforms must be updated. Ask what happens to shared advertising and lead sources.

Offer to help with a smooth transition for any ongoing transactions. Communicate clearly about timelines and responsibilities so there are no misunderstandings.

Keep your tone respectful, even if the relationship has been strained. Professionalism protects your future opportunities.

What happens after you tell your broker

Once you notify your current broker, the formal transition process begins.

Your real estate license will be transferred to your new broker. In most states, this cannot happen until your current firm releases you. This is why confirming timing with both brokerages matters.

Your current brokerage will also review your ongoing transactions and listings. Depending on your contract and state rules, listings may remain with the firm or may be transferred to your new brokerage with seller approval.

Your real estate commission on pending deals is usually governed by your agreement, not by where you complete the transaction. Make sure you understand how commission will be paid during the transition.

You should also confirm how errors and omissions insurance coverage applies to transactions that were opened under your former broker.

This phase is administrative, but it directly impacts your income and your client experience.

Common mistakes agents make when leaving

One of the most common mistakes agents make is telling colleagues before telling their broker. Your current broker should hear the news from you, not through office gossip.

Another mistake is assuming that listings automatically follow the agent. Listing agreements belong to the brokerage, not the individual agent, unless your contract says otherwise.

Some agents rush the exit and forget to review their agreement. This can create disputes over commission, marketing materials, or referral obligations.

Others delay notifying clients about the transition, which can create confusion during ongoing transactions.

Leaving quickly does not always mean leaving smoothly.

Final advice for a smooth transition

If you want to leave your real estate brokerage smoothly, preparation is your best protection.

Review your contract. Understand your commission split, referral obligations, and any non-solicitation language. Clarify how ongoing transactions and listings will be handled.

Confirm your onboarding timeline before you resign. Make sure your new broker is ready to receive your real estate license immediately.

Communicate directly, respectfully, and clearly. A short meeting or phone call with your current broker is still the most professional way to tell your broker you are leaving.

Finally, remember this. Agents change brokerages often. Want to leave does not mean you failed. It means your business is evolving.

A professional exit allows you to move forward confidently, protect your reputation, and begin your next chapter with stability.

FAQs

Do I have to give notice before leaving my brokerage?

Most brokerages require notice under your independent contractor agreement, so always review your contract before you resign.

Can I take my listings with me when I leave?

Listings typically belong to the brokerage, not the agent. Transfer usually requires broker approval and client consent.

Will my commission change if I switch brokerages mid-transaction?

Your real estate commission is usually governed by your agreement with your current brokerage, even if you complete the deal after leaving.

Should I tell my clients before telling my broker?

No. You should notify your broker first and then follow the approved process for communicating with clients.

Is switching brokerages legally complicated?

It is usually straightforward if you follow your agreement and state license procedures, but timing and communication matter.