If you’re considering a career in Florida real estate or getting ready to choose your first brokerage, you’ve probably heard about the two most common compensation models: 100% commission and commission splits.
On the surface, 100% commission might sound like a no-brainer—you keep everything you earn. But what about support, training, leads, and tools? Commission splits may mean sharing a portion of your paycheck, but they often come with built-in systems that help you grow faster.
In this article, we break down the pros, cons, and real math behind each model so you can make an informed decision based on your goals and experience. If you’re serious about building a real estate career in Florida, this is required reading.
What Is a 100% Commission Model?
In a 100% commission brokerage, you keep the full commission from each transaction—but you pay the brokerage in other ways:
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Monthly fees (desk fees, tech fees, etc.)
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Per-transaction fees
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Flat-rate membership dues
This model works well for agents who:
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Are confident generating their own leads
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Prefer independence over mentorship
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Have experience and systems in place
Pros:
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Maximize take-home pay per deal
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Greater autonomy and flexibility
Cons:
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No built-in support or leads
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Monthly costs even when you’re not closing deals
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Requires strong self-discipline and business skills
What Is a Commission Split Model?
In a split model, the brokerage keeps a portion of each commission. Common splits are 70/30, 80/20, or even 50/50, depending on the brokerage and support level.
This model works well for:
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New agents who want guidance and training
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Agents who need leads and marketing support
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Anyone who wants to minimize upfront expenses
Pros:
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Access to mentorship, training, and support systems
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Some brokerages offer leads and marketing tools
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Lower startup costs for newer agents
Cons:
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Lower take-home pay per transaction
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May include caps or tiered structures that can be confusing
Real Math: $10,000 Commission Breakdown
Let’s say you earn a $10,000 commission.
100% Model Example:
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$10,000 Gross Commission
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− $500 transaction fee
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− $250 monthly office/tech fee
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= $9,250 Net Income
Split Model (70/30) Example:
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$10,000 Gross Commission
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− $3,000 brokerage split
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= $7,000 Net Income
In this example, the 100% model nets more—but only if you’re consistently closing deals. For newer agents, the value of support, accountability, and lead flow in a split model often outweighs the higher margin.
How to Choose the Right Model for You
Ask yourself:
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Do I want to build my business solo, or with support?
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Am I prepared to pay fees even in slow months?
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Do I need mentorship, training, or lead generation?
No model is “better” across the board—it depends on your goals, budget, and experience level.
How TSRE+ Pro Helps You Decide
If you’re not sure which model is best for you, TSRE+ Pro University can help.
Inside TSRE+ Pro, you’ll get:
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Florida real estate pre-licensing and post-licensing courses
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Business planning tools to clarify your income goals
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Branding and lead generation strategies to grow fast
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Access to on-demand exam prep to pass your Florida real estate exam faster
TSRE+ Pro University gives you the structure and support to build a successful real estate business—no matter which brokerage model you choose.
Upcoming Opportunity: Tampa Career Fair – August 2nd
Want to explore both commission models in real life? Attend the Florida Real Estate Career Fair in Tampa on Saturday, August 2nd. Meet recruiters from brokerages across Florida and ask the questions that matter most.
✅ Free registration included
🎓 Get free access to an online real estate contract course just for attending!
Reserve your free seat today at FloridaRealEstateCareerFair.com
Have Questions?
Speak confidentially with a TSRE advisor at (813) 333-2676. Whether you’re just getting started or exploring new brokerage options, we can help you create a plan that fits.
Conclusion
Choosing between 100% commission and a commission split is one of the first major decisions in your real estate career. While the 100% model may offer higher earnings per deal, split-based brokerages often provide the guidance, structure, and lead support that new agents need to succeed.
The best choice is the one that fits your learning style, income goals, and business vision.
Ready to get started? Learn more about TSRE+ Pro University and take the next step in building your Florida real estate career today.
