Is Joining a Real Estate Team a Smart Move or a Mistake?

If you’re in real estate—or thinking about getting into it—you’ve probably asked yourself this question:

Should I join a real estate team… or go solo? 🤔

It’s one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in your career. And let’s be honest—everyone has an opinion about it.

Some say teams limit your freedom. Others say you can’t succeed without one. The truth? It depends on you, your goals, and what you actually need to succeed.

In this post, we’re breaking down the real pros and cons of joining a real estate team, sharing what it’s actually like behind the scenes, and helping you figure out whether this move is a smart step—or a potential misstep.

✅ What You Gain When You Join a Real Estate Team

Let’s start with the upside. Joining a team can fast-track your career in ways that are tough to replicate on your own.

1. Leads + Opportunities

Most real estate teams provide ready-to-go leads and marketing support that solo agents have to generate from scratch. For many new agents, this means:

• More appointments

• Faster closings

• Less stress trying to "figure it all out" yourself

2. Mentorship & Support

Good teams offer built-in coaching, accountability, and help when you hit a wall. Got a tricky contract? Need help with a negotiation? You’ve got people. That matters—especially in your first few years.

3. Systems & Resources

From CRMs to transaction coordinators to marketing templates, a solid team already has the infrastructure in place to help you scale faster and focus on what you do best: working with clients.

4. Collaboration > Isolation

Let’s be real—real estate can be lonely. On a team, you get community, energy, and a shared mission, which keeps you motivated (and learning) every day.

⚠️ What You Give Up on a Real Estate Team

Of course, joining a team isn’t for everyone. There are trade-offs to consider.

1. Commission Splits

Team members often split commissions to help cover marketing, admin, and lead generation. While you might make slightly less per deal, many agents find they close more deals overall—so their income still grows.

2. Less Branding Freedom

You’re often operating under the team’s brand and systems, not building your own name from scratch. If your long-term dream is to run your own brand or brokerage, consider whether the team’s model supports that growth.

3. Team Culture Matters

Not every team is the same. A supportive, high-integrity team can boost your career… but a disorganized or toxic team? That’s a different story. Ask the right questions before you commit.

💭 Who Should Join a Team (And Who Shouldn’t)

Joining a Team Might Be Smart If:

✔️ You’re a new or newer agent and want mentorship
✔️ You’re struggling to find consistent leads
✔️ You want to build confidence with support around you
✔️ You want to spend more time serving clients and less time trying to market yourself from scratch

Going Solo Might Be Right If:

✔️ You already have a strong sphere and lead flow
✔️ You want full control of your brand and schedule
✔️ You’re entrepreneurial and ready to build your own systems
✔️ You’re comfortable learning through trial and error

❓Questions to Ask Before Joining a Real Estate Team

Thinking about joining a team? Ask these:

• How are leads distributed?

• What are the commission splits, and what’s included?

• What kind of training or mentorship is offered?

• What’s the team culture like?

• What does success look like on the team—and how is it supported?

These questions can help you find the right team—not just any team.

👀 Inside Our Team: What It’s Really Like

Here at the Leonhardt Team, our agents are thriving because we:

• Offer weekly coaching and training

• Share real, high-quality leads (not just recycled names)

• Provide full marketing support, admin help, and systems

• Foster a positive, growth-minded culture where agents win together

Whether you're in Minnesota or Western Wisconsin, we're here to support your growth—no matter where you're starting from.

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🚀 Ready to Take the Next Step?

👉 Don’t make this decision blind—it could save your career, or jumpstart it.
📧 Let’s talk about what it’s really like to join our team

👍 Like this post if you’re considering the team route
💬 Comment with your questions—we’re here to answer them
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Bottom line: Joining a real estate team can be a smart, strategic move—but only if the team is the right fit for you. If you're curious, ask questions. If you're ready, take the next step. We're here to help. 💼✨