Methodology — BrokerageCosts

1 · The cost equation

For a given production scenario (annual GCI and transaction count), we compute:

Commission split paid to brokerage (capped where applicable)+

Franchise royalty (with its own cap where applicable)+

Fixed fees: monthly fee ×12, desk fee ×12, annual fee+

Per-transaction fees (pre-cap and post-cap rates)+

Out-of-pocket cost of tools you need that aren't included=

True annual cost
Net retention = GCI − true annual cost

Cap progression assumes even commission per transaction (GCI ÷ transactions). Post-cap transaction fees apply only to closings after the modeled cap point. One-time startup/onboarding fees are shown separately and excluded from the annual run-rate.

2 · Value offsets

Brokerages that include tools (CRM, IDX website, transaction management, training, office space) reduce your out-of-pocket spend. We price each tool at a typical standalone market rate — e.g. CRM ~$840/yr (Follow Up Boss tier), IDX website ~$2,400/yr, lead generation ~$3,600/yr — and only count tools you say you need. A brokerage never gets credit for including something you wouldn't buy anyway.

3 · Data confidence levels

Verified

Published by the brokerage itself (official fee support pages) or corroborated by 3+ current independent sources. Example: Real Broker, eXp Realty.

Reported

Consistent figures across multiple 2026 industry sources, but fees vary by office/market center (KW, RE/MAX, Century 21, Coldwell Banker). We model a typical mid-range office and say so.

Modeled

Structures that are negotiated, changing, or archetypal (Compass, Fathom, HomeSmart, Local Independent). Directionally useful; verify locally before acting.

4 · Known variability

Franchise offices set their own caps, desk fees, and splits — the same brand can differ by $10,000+/yr between two offices in the same city.
Canadian figures are in CAD and use Canadian fee schedules where published (Real, eXp); other CA models are US structures adjusted and marked "reported/modeled".
Board/association dues, MLS fees, and licensing costs apply at every brokerage and are excluded from comparisons (they don't differentiate).
Team members typically face different caps and splits — team economics are modeled only where published.
Stock awards, revenue share, and profit share are flagged but not monetized — their value depends on behavior and equity performance.

5 · 2026 industry notes

Compass completed its merger with Anywhere (Coldwell Banker, Century 21, Sotheby's, Corcoran) in January 2026 — brand fee structures remain distinct for now.
Real signed a definitive agreement to acquire RE/MAX in April 2026. Closing is expected in the second half of 2026 and remains subject to approvals; the models stay separate until terms actually change.
Real announced fee updates effective September 2026 (US annual fee → $900, $50 CBR fee, $100 Elite post-cap fee) — current published schedule modeled until effective.

6 · What this is not

Rankings and "best for" labels are model outputs, not endorsements or advice. No brokerage pays for placement. Estimates are based on selected assumptions and should be confirmed in writing with the brokerage before any decision. This site does not provide financial, legal, or career advice.