My experience was very educational, and gave me the tools needed to be successful as a commercial broker - Director Investment Sales Investment Real Estate Associates Employee Review

You reap the rewards of your own hard work. The compensation is generally based on 100% commission (as is standard in most real estate brokerage companies), giving each agent the opportunity for unlimited earnings potential. Obviously there are many who are not able to go six months to one year without making any money (before their first sale), but for those who can, the potential rewards are tremendous. The training program for new hires is good and the mentoring program after training is excellent. The commission payments are generally better than similar higher-end investment real estate brokerage companies allowing successful agents to earn more. The work atmosphere is strong and it is very common for agents to work together in selling each others listings. While it is true that it is difficult to make it in the business, for those who persevere and work hard, a six figure income is well within reach and seven figures is obtainable and has been obtained multiple times by multiple agents.

For those who do not find success within approximately their first year, there is no real alternative other than for them to leave. Most leave on their own since they have gone so long without making any money, but occasionally an unsuccessful agent will be asked to leave the firm.

I worked at IREA for 4 years, and eventually left the industry, not because of the firm, but due to other opportunities that were more suited to my interests. I had a very successful career with IREA and learned a lot from the upper management and senior agents, helping me to advance in the industry. Despite having abundant success as well as receiving numerous awards and recognitions from inside and outside the firm, the business itself wasn't to my liking. Had I remained in the industry I would have stayed with IREA due to the amazing co-workers and team-like environment where we shared deals instead of keeping them all to oneself like in other firms. At times I had disagreements with the broker, and we would arm wrestle over practices. If I was able to prove my point, he would acquiesce. I often went “outside the box” and was able to pursue my personal business plan with guidance and support from the broker. I would recommend IREA as a great firm to start with. It is a tough industry, but the management trains new agents well and partners them with senior agents to help guide them on to success.

Commercial real estate is tough no matter what firm, and IREA is no different in that regard. Be prepared to go months without a paycheck, and work your tail off farming clients and leads. There are deals to be had by those willing to put in the effort with a positive attitude and integrity.