Every brokerage pitch sounds good in the meeting. The split is competitive, the leads are great, the culture is amazing. The way to see past the pitch is to ask specific questions and compare real answers. Here are twelve worth asking before you sign anywhere.
Compensation and cost
What is the actual commission split, and does it change with volume. Are there desk fees, technology fees, or franchise fees, and what do they add up to monthly. Who pays for E and O insurance and BCFSA renewal costs. How and when are commissions actually paid out after a deal funds.
Lender access and support
How many lenders are on the panel, and does it include the ones you actually use most. Is there a dedicated underwriting or compliance contact, or are brokers expected to figure things out alone. How are complex deals handled, like self employed or bruised credit files.
Growth and support
Is there a mentorship program for brokers newer to the business. What marketing or lead generation support is actually provided versus just a logo and business cards. Is there a CRM or deal tracking system included, and what does it cost.
Culture and fit
How long have the current brokers been there, and would they recommend the switch. What happens if a broker wants to leave, is the transition handled professionally. Is the brokerage independent or does it answer to a larger corporate structure that limits flexibility.
Reading between the answers
A hesitant or vague answer to any of these questions tells you as much as a confident one. Brokerages that are transparent about splits, fees, and support tend to be transparent in day to day operations too. Ask the same twelve questions at every brokerage you consider, and compare the answers side by side rather than one at a time.
What we tell brokers who ask us these questions
At A.I.M.I. Collective, we would rather answer all twelve directly than have you find out later. Transparent splits, a full DLC lender panel, real compliance and underwriting support, and a culture built around independent brokers who want to grow. If you are comparing options, we are happy to go through these questions with you directly.