Here are some of the most common questions we receive from candidates about starting a real estate career with New Western - from licensing requirements and real estate training to commission structure and career growth opportunities.
Do I need a real estate license to apply?
No, you do not need a license to apply. But, your offer will be contingent on obtaining a real estate license. However, over 60% of our agents went through interviews and received offers before starting their real estate licensing process. You can apply and interview while working on becoming a real estate agent.
Who pays for real estate licensing courses and fees?
Agents are responsible for their own real estate licensing courses and exam fees, but New Western partners with education providers to offer discounted courses in every state we operate to help you meet real estate license requirements quickly and affordably.
Why is a license required?
All New Western agents must be licensed real estate agents because you'll be conducting real estate transactions on behalf of our brokerage.
Do I have to hang my license with New Western?
Yes, as with any real estate brokerage, your license will need to be affiliated with the company where you conduct transactions–in this case, New Western.
Do I need MLS access or Realtor association membership?
Yes. MLS is essential for success as a real estate agent, and in some markets, Realtor association membership is required to gain access.
Can I start working while I'm getting licensed?
You can't conduct any transactions until you're fully licensed, but you can attend office events and start building connections while completing the licensing requirements.
Is this commission-only?
Yes. Like most real estate brokerages, New Western agents are compensated on a 100% commission basis. This way real estate agents control their earnings and growth based on their performance.
What do agents typically earn?
Average annual earnings are about $93K, with top performers earning over $160K in their first year and exceeding $450K annually in later years. Because your earnings are uncapped, your income directly reflects your effort and performance.
Are there monthly fees?
Yes, a $55 monthly systems fee covers Errors & Omissions insurance, Salesforce, DocuSign, GSuite, your agent web page, and other tools - secured at a corporate discount. The fee is deducted from commissions, so there's no out-of-pocket expense. Unlike many real estate brokerages, New Western does not charge desk, royalty, or franchise fees.
What is orientation like?
You'll start with a two-day intensive real estate training program led by managers and senior team members, followed by weekly workshops during your first 90 days. Training is hands-on and includes fieldwork, property tours, and mentorship designed to help you become a real estate agent ready to confidently connect investors with the right properties.
How does New Western support new agents?
Our 120-day real estate onboarding process pairs you with a Market Manager and small cohort, supplemented by New Western University - a proprietary training portal with hundreds of hours of content from top producers, industry experts, and business leaders. This continued education helps you succeed long after you've earned your real estate license.
Do I have to generate my own leads?
Yes. This is a sales position - lead generation and cold calling are essential to your success. While you'll need to actively build your own pipeline, we also provide you with the tools, training, and resources to connect with nearly 100 active real estate investors within your first six months. These are professional buyers who can typically close within 14 days. Once your training is complete, you'll also have the opportunity to receive leads directly from New Western to help you accelerate your growth.
How do I find buyers?
Our comprehensive training program teaches you proven lead generation strategies that have helped thousands of agents succeed. Through our exclusive marketplace, you'll also gain access to a network of experienced investors - not casual buyers - who are actively seeking off-market properties and can often close quickly. Many of these investors become repeat clients, helping you build lasting relationships and accelerate your real estate career.
Are there growth opportunities?
Absolutely. Many agents progress from sales into expert homebuyers within months, and top performers can move into leadership roles such as team lead, general manager, or regional manager. Leaders also participate in our equity compensation program. Your career path is merit-based - your performance drives your progress, not arbitrary timelines.
Can I do traditional real estate transactions here?
No. New Western specializes in investment properties. However, you can refer traditional residential leads to other agents and collect referral fees, allowing you to earn even more from deals outside of New Western's focus.
Can I invest personally while working at New Western?
Yes, agents may purchase investment properties for their own portfolios, within our guidelines. It's a great way to apply what you learn and grow your personal wealth as you advance in your real estate career path.
Do you offer relocation assistance?
No, we don't provide relocation for new agents.
Do I need to finish my current deals before joining?
Yes. Since we don't handle traditional transactions, you'll need to wrap up your listings first or arrange referrals.