Are Real Estate Teams Still a Thing in 2025? (And Should You Join One?)
by MyState MLS Team
If you've been in real estate for more than five minutes, you've probably heard the term real estate team tossed around. Maybe you've even been recruited by one-or considered building one yourself. But in today's evolving, tech-fueled, post-NAR-lawsuit world, a lot of agents are asking: Are real estate teams still a thing?
The short answer: Yes. But also... it depends.. Whether you're a new agent looking for mentorship or a seasoned solo pro weighing your options, here's what you need to know about real estate teams in 2025-how they work, how to find a good one, and why they might (or might not) be right for you.
What Is a Real Estate Team?
A real estate team is a group of agents (and often support staff) who work together under a team leader-usually a high-performing agent or broker. The team shares leads, marketing, branding, and often office space. Everyone plays a different role: some agents work with buyers, others focus on listings, and staff may handle paperwork, coordination, and marketing.Think of it like a mini brokerage within a brokerage.
Are Teams Still Popular?
Yes-and no. Teams are still around, and in many markets, they're thriving. But how they operate is changing:
- Pre-2020s: Teams exploded in popularity. Brokerages pushed them, leads were cheap, and team leaders scaled quickly.
- 2020-2023: Teams offered stability during a volatile market. New agents joined for support and steady business.
- 2024-2025: With commissions shifting and lead costs rising, teams are now under pressure to prove their value.
More agents are asking, "What am I really getting from this team?" At the same time, team leaders are getting more selective about how they distribute resources.
Why Joining a Team Might Make Sense
There are plenty of reasons why joining a team can be a great move, especially for newer agents.
- Built-in Leads - Many teams have established lead generation systems, which means you can start working with buyers or sellers much faster than going solo.
- Mentorship and Training - A good team doesn't just send you out to sink or swim-they'll train you on how to handle client calls, write offers, negotiate, and close deals.
- Accountability - If you work better with structure, a team can give you the accountability you need to stay on track and hit your goals.
- Marketing and Admin Support - From listing flyers to CRM systems to transaction coordination, teams often provide the kind of support that would be costly or time-consuming to manage on your own.
- Faster Brand Building - Being part of a well-known team in your area can lend you credibility right out of the gate, especially if the team has a solid reputation.
Why a Team Might Not Be Right for You
Of course, there are trade-offs. Teams aren't a fit for everyone.
- Commission Splits - One of the biggest downsides is the split. Depending on the team, you could give up 30% to 50% of your commission on every deal.
- Less Autonomy - Some teams have strict rules about branding, marketing, and even your schedule. That might be fine for some-but a deal-breaker for others.
- Brand Identity Limitations - If you want to grow your personal brand, being a background player on a team may slow that down.
- Uneven Lead Distribution - Not all teams divide leads fairly. Some reserve the best leads for the top producers or the team leader.
How to Find a Real Estate Team in 2025
If you're considering joining a team, there are a few ways to start your search:
- Ask around at your brokerage - Many brokers know which teams are growing and which ones are looking for new members.
- Check social media - Facebook Groups, LinkedIn, and Instagram are all great places to find team recruiting posts and testimonials.
- Network in person - Attend MLS meetings, real estate happy hours, or industry events and talk to agents in your market.
- Do your homework - Look up local team leaders, read their reviews, check their volume, and even follow their marketing online.
What to Look for in a Real Estate Team
Before signing on, be sure to vet the team carefully. Here are some key things to consider:
- Support Offered - Ask what the team actually provides-leads, marketing, admin support, CRM tools, signage, and more. Not all teams offer the same benefits.
- Commission Structure - Know the exact split, how it's calculated, and whether there are any caps or bonus tiers.
- Lead Distribution System - Some teams use a round-robin system. Others base it on performance. Ask how you'll be receiving leads, especially in your first 90 days.
- Expenses - Will you need to pay for your own business cards, lock boxes, or photography? Understand all the out-of-pocket costs upfront.
- Team Culture - Does the team operate like a tight-knit group, or is it every agent for themselves? Do they meet regularly? Is there mentorship? The culture can make or break your experience.
Should You Join a Team? Try Before You Commit.
If possible, shadow the team or sit in on a meeting before making a decision. That kind of visibility will help you know whether the culture, support, and leadership match what you're looking for. Good teams won't shy away from showing you how they work. Here's a quick guide to help you decide:| Your Situation | A Team Might Be Right If... |
|---|---|
| New agent | You want training, structure, and leads to hit the ground running |
| Struggling solo | You need accountability and systems to turn things around |
| Established and self-sufficient | You're already generating business and don't want to split commissions |
| Looking to scale fast | You want to leverage admin help and marketing to grow quicker |
| Independent and entrepreneurial | You want full control over your schedule, branding, and growth strategy |
Final Thoughts
So, are real estate teams still a thing? Absolutely. But just like everything else in the industry, they're evolving.Teams can be a game-changer if you find the right one. But they can also be a poor fit if your goals don't align. The key is asking the right questions, understanding the value being offered, and knowing what you need to succeed in your real estate market. Do your research, trust your instincts, and remember-whether you go solo or join a team, there's more than one path to building a successful real estate business.
The right team won't just close deals-they'll open doors to your full potential!
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