When new agents in Illinois start their real estate careers, one of the biggest decisions they face is: Should I join a large national franchise or a local brokerage?
Big names like Keller Williams, Century 21, or Coldwell Banker may sound attractive at first — but they often come with high costs, rigid systems, and less personalized support. Local brokerages, on the other hand, provide mentorship, flexibility, and a culture that actually invests in the success of their agents.
At KOMAR Real Estate, we’ve seen first-hand why many Illinois agents — both new and experienced — are leaving national franchises and thriving at local brokerages. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences, and why choosing local could be the best move for your career.
The Allure of National Franchises
There’s no denying that large, national brokerages offer some advantages:
- Brand recognition → Consumers may recognize the name.
- Large networks → Thousands of agents across the country.
- Standardized systems → Training programs and marketing templates.
For some agents, that structure can feel reassuring. But in practice, these benefits don’t always translate into more sales or better support.
The Hidden Downsides of National Brokerages
What new agents often discover quickly:
- High monthly fees → Desk fees, technology fees, and franchise dues that can cost $500–$1,000/month.
- Lower commission splits → You keep less of what you earn.
- Generic training → Programs designed for national audiences, not tailored to Illinois laws or market realities.
- You’re just a number → With hundreds of agents in one office, individual mentorship is rare.
The result? Many agents burn out or leave the industry within their first year.
Why Local Brokerages Win: The Illinois Advantage
Local brokerages, like KOMAR, flip the script. Instead of relying on size and fees, they focus on agent growth and community reputation. Here’s why more Illinois agents are making the switch.
1. Lower Costs = Less Stress
Local brokerages are often leaner — which means fewer fees for agents. At KOMAR:
✓ Zero monthly fees
✓ Free IDX website & CRM
✓ Transparent splits
When you’re not writing a $500 check every month just to “stay active,” you can reinvest your earnings into marketing and building your brand.
2. Personalized Mentorship
In a smaller brokerage, you’re not just another agent in a giant roster. You actually know your broker, and they know you.
At KOMAR, agents get:
- One-on-one mentorship
- Live training sessions 4x a week
- Direct access to experienced team members
That’s the kind of support national franchises simply can’t replicate at scale.
3. Local Market Expertise
A national franchise might give you a polished marketing template, but it won’t teach you the nuances of the Des Plaines or Chicagoland market.
Local brokerages understand:
- Neighborhood dynamics
- Local pricing strategies
- Illinois-specific contracts and regulations
That expertise translates into better client results — and more referrals for you.
4. Community and Culture
National franchises often feel corporate. Local brokerages feel like a team.
At KOMAR, we celebrate every agent’s success, share strategies, and work together. That culture keeps agents motivated — especially in the tough first year.
Which Agents Benefit Most From Going Local?
✓ New agents who need close mentorship, training, and financial breathing room.
✓ Experienced agents tired of paying thousands in franchise fees with little return.
✓ Agents who want flexibility in branding and business-building.
✓ Community-driven professionals who prefer relationships over corporate systems.
FAQs: National vs. Local Brokerages
Won’t I get more clients with a big brand name?
Not necessarily. Clients choose agents they trust, not logos. In fact, many buyers and sellers prefer working with local experts over large corporations.
Do local brokerages have enough tools?
Yes. KOMAR provides agents with everything they need — website, CRM, marketing tools — at no cost. The difference is you’re not being billed for them monthly.
What about long-term growth?
Local brokerages can scale with you. With no hidden fees and more support, you’re better positioned to reinvest in your business and grow faster.
National franchises may look appealing on the surface, but once you factor in the costs, the lack of personal mentorship, and the generic systems, many Illinois agents discover that local brokerages are the smarter choice.
At KOMAR, we’ve built a model that combines local expertise, personalized mentorship, and zero monthly fees. Whether you’re a new agent starting out or an experienced professional tired of franchise costs, KOMAR gives you the tools and culture to thrive.
Ready to join a brokerage that invests in you? Apply to KOMAR today.
