05/05/2026
I've been thinking a lot of our younger agents recently - the challenges they face getting started, the identifiable characteristics of an agent who will likely overcome the national trend and thrive in their first year of business - their basic foundational needs.
The average age in our profession is 53.
That said, 21% (and growing - two new agents this week) of our agent force at JimMaloof/REALTOR are under the age of 40. Some, still in their teens. That 21% represents some OUTSTANDING young professionals who were as much a proper fit for our brokerage - as our brokerage was a fit for them.
But, it started me wondering - is our offering for a young agent - in the dawn of their career - on target?
Research indicates:
Young real estate agents prioritize comprehensive training, accessible mentorship, and modern technology over high commission splits when choosing a brokerage. For a rookie, a "100% split of zero transactions is still zero dollars," making support the primary driver for early success.
* Structured Mentorship & Coaching: Young agents need a "vested interest" mentor who provides one-on-one guidance during their first few transactions. Programs that include shadowing experienced agents during open houses or negotiations are highly valued.
* Practical, Hands-On Training: Beyond licensing school, agents require training in core skills like contract writing, lead generation, and pricing strategies. They specifically look for "support you can sit down with," rather than just digital resources.
* Robust Technology Stack: Essential tools include a reliable CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system to manage leads, professional email, and mobile-friendly transaction software for working on the go.
* Collaborative Culture: Younger agents (like Millennials) value a social, supportive environment where they don't feel like "just a number". They prefer an "abundance mindset" where ideas are shared openly rather than guarded.
* Marketing & Branding Support: This includes professional headshots, agent bios, and assistance with establishing an online presence via social media and personal websites.
* Broker Accessibility: Being able to reach a managing broker quickly for time-sensitive questions—especially during initial contract negotiations—is critical.
That last one is so important.
And while we are often accused of feeling like an "older company" (I mean, we are 57 years old), we have something many mega teams don't have (or replace with lead spend and excessive marketing) - busy, experienced agents who both provide opportunities to learn from decades in the business (every variety of market and adversity) and referral opportunities. The collection of knowledge and experience is pretty awe-inspiring - but, would mean nothing if the people - Jim Maloof/Realtor Family - weren't the kind of people who always step up to share and support one another.
While I hate to date myself, I've been doing this long enough to have seen the experienced agents NOW when they were FIRST starting in this business. As much as certain recruiters want you to believe that the "game has changed", "you're at the wrong table" or that if you side with them, "all of your wildest dreams will come true" - it's not that easy.
There's a wall in our office of agents who have sold in excess of 100 Million Dollars of real estate throughout their career. Regardless of your age or experience in the business, there are vital lessons to be learned from being associated with these poeple - from working beside them. And our support staff boasts 100's of combined years in real estate.
I am inclined to believe that the same foundational things that helped Ryan Blackorby and Mari Duncan will continue to help Owen Blackorby and Abby Halliday.
Support NEVER goes out of style. And we have tons of it to give.
More Info:
https://www.maloofrealty.com/pages/careers
