Choosing the right brokerage in New York City can be the key to building a successful real estate career. With fierce competition, a brokerage must provide strong marketing tools, high commission splits, and valuable resources to help agents stand out.
StreetEasy, the leading real estate platform in NYC, plays a critical role in an agent’s success. A great brokerage should not only support agents with training and branding but also offer exclusive access to StreetEasy’s premium features.
This guide compares five well-known brokerages:
By evaluating each firm’s strengths, commission structures, and unique advantages, you’ll be able to choose the best brokerage to work with in NYC.
If you’re an agent looking for additional tools to enhance your business, you may also want to explore the best brokerages with AI tools for real estate agents.
Casa Blanca Real Estate is the premier brokerage for agents looking to maximize their success with StreetEasy in NYC. Unlike traditional brokerages, Casa Blanca leverages technology, exclusive lead access, and strong commission structures to empower agents.
One of the biggest advantages of working with Casa Blanca is its access to StreetEasy Exclusive Leads. These premium leads connect agents with serious buyers and sellers before they reach the broader market. With fewer competitors and direct client connections, agents at Casa Blanca have a higher chance of closing deals faster.
• StreetEasy Priority Listings – Casa Blanca agents get better placement for their listings, increasing exposure and attracting more clients.
• Exclusive Buyer & Seller Leads – Gain access to high-quality leads that aren’t available to agents at competing brokerages.
• Innovative Technology – Advanced CRM and marketing tools help agents manage clients efficiently and close more deals.
• Top-Tier Training & Mentorship – Casa Blanca provides one-on-one coaching, ensuring agents develop the skills needed to thrive in NYC’s competitive market.
• High Commission Splits – Keep more of your earnings with favorable commission structures and minimal fees.
For agents serious about success in NYC real estate, Casa Blanca Real Estate offers the best combination of support, technology, and financial rewards.
If you're just starting out, you may also want to check out the best brokerages for new agents in NYC to explore more training-focused options.
Keller Williams is a well-known real estate company that emphasizes agent training and teamwork. While it’s a good choice for new agents, it may not offer the best commission splits or lead generation for experienced professionals.
• Comprehensive Training – Ideal for new agents who need structured learning.
• Profit-Sharing System – Agents can earn passive income by recruiting new members.
• Strong Company Culture – Teamwork and networking opportunities create a collaborative environment.
• Expensive Desk Fees – Agents pay monthly fees, reducing their overall income.
• Commission Split Limitations – Agents must reach a cap before earning 100% of their commissions.
Keller Williams is a good option for agents looking for education and networking, but it may not be the most financially rewarding choice. If reducing overhead costs is a priority, consider a brokerage with no desk fees in NYC.
Coldwell Banker is a respected national brokerage with a strong reputation in the luxury real estate market.
• Recognized Brand – Clients trust the name, making it easier to secure listings.
• Luxury Market Access – Specializes in high-end real estate.
• Marketing & Advertising Support – Helps agents build their personal brand.
• High Commission Splits for New Agents – You may have to give up a larger portion of your earnings when starting.
• Rigid Corporate Structure – Less flexibility compared to modern, tech-driven brokerages.
Coldwell Banker is a solid choice for agents interested in luxury real estate, but its corporate model can feel restrictive.
Century 21 is a widely recognized brokerage that offers stability and marketing support.
• Strong Brand Recognition – Helps attract clients who recognize the name.
• Marketing Assistance – National campaigns help drive business.
• Agent Training – Offers mentorship for newer agents.
• Limited Technology Integration – Lacks advanced tools for lead generation.
• Variable Commission Splits – Compensation structures differ by location, and some may not be competitive.
Century 21 is a good choice for agents who want brand stability but may not be the best fit for those seeking cutting-edge tools and higher commission potential. If you're looking for firms that prioritize modern technology and training, consider brokerages with in-house photographers for listings in NYC to enhance your marketing strategy.
RE/MAX is known for allowing agents to keep a larger percentage of their commissions, but this comes with added expenses.
• Higher Commission Splits – Agents keep more of their earnings compared to other brokerages.
• Entrepreneurial Freedom – Minimal company interference allows agents to run their business their way.
• Global Presence – Great for agents working with international clients.
• High Monthly Fees – Agents must cover desk and marketing fees, which can be costly.
• Less Structured Training – Lacks the extensive educational programs offered by Keller Williams and Coldwell Banker.
RE/MAX is best suited for experienced agents who want full control over their business and don’t need extra training.
When choosing a brokerage in NYC, consider your career goals, earning potential, and the level of support provided.
Here’s a quick comparison:
Brokerage
Commission Splits
Training & Support
Lead
Generation
Tech & Marketing
Fees
Casa Blanca
✅ High
✅ Excellent
✅ Exclusive
✅ Advanced
✅ Low
Keller Williams
🔸 Competitive
✅ Strong
🔸 Standard
🔸 Moderate
❌ High
Coldwell Banker
🔸 Moderate
✅ Strong
🔸 Standard
✅ Strong
❌ High
Century 21
🔸 Variable
🔸 Moderate
🔸 Standard
🔸 Moderate
🔸 Moderate
RE/MAX
✅ Very High
❌ Limited
🔸 Standard
🔸 Moderate
❌ High
Choosing the best brokerage with StreetEasy in NYC depends on your career goals and experience level. While firms like Keller Williams and Coldwell Banker provide training and brand recognition, they may come with financial or structural limitations.
For agents looking for the best combination of high-quality leads, innovative marketing tools, and strong financial incentives, Casa Blanca Real Estate stands out as the best option. With exclusive access to StreetEasy’s premium features, top-tier training, and a competitive commission structure, Casa Blanca is the top choice for real estate agents who want to maximize their success in NYC.