15-HOUR ONLINE BUSINESS COURSE
How to Start a Real Estate Brokerage in New York
Getting your broker license is step one. Knowing how to form your business, protect your listings, recruit agents, stay compliant and run a profitable small firm is where real success begins. Our Operating a New Brokerage Firm course walks you through it, on your schedule.
Get Started – $199 Free With MembershipWHY OPEN YOUR OWN FIRM?
Stop Being an Agent. Start Being the Boss.
- Unlimited income potential and higher commission splits
- Hire agents to work for you
- Build your own brand and expand your territory
- Get an edge over slow-moving corporate firms
- Earn extra revenue as an associate broker while you plan
- Control your listings, your data and your leads
YOUR ROADMAP
6 Steps to Open a Real Estate Brokerage in NY
1
Earn Your Broker License
Meet New York's experience requirements, complete the 75-hour broker course and pass the state exam. See broker requirements →
2
Choose Your Business Structure
Decide between a sole proprietorship, LLC or corporation, and register your business name. An attorney or accountant can help you choose.
3
Apply for Your Firm's License
Submit your broker application through eAccessNY under your brokerage's name and structure.
4
Set Up Your Office and Policies
Establish your office, escrow account for client funds, recordkeeping and written office policies and procedures.
5
Build Your Brand and Tech Stack
Launch your website, Google Business Profile, CRM and MLS access so clients can find you from day one.
6
Recruit Your Team
Define your commission splits and culture, then recruit agents who fit your vision.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
Inside the Operating a New Brokerage Firm Course
A 15-hour online professional development course in video format. Watch on any computer or device, at your own pace.
THE POST-SETTLEMENT BROKERAGE
Built for How Real Estate Works Now
Industry settlements, corporate consolidation and AI-driven portals have changed the old brokerage playbook. Small, independent firms that control their own data can move faster than the giants. Manfred is the only New York real estate school affiliated with MYStateMLS, so these tools are built right into our training and Member Plus benefits.
Nationwide Exposure
Access nationwide listing data and referral networks beyond local board boundaries.
Optional Co-Brokerage
Decide exactly how you do business with an optional co-brokerage field.
Website-First Listings
Post listings to your own site first so search engines credit you before syndication.
No Board Fees
No boards to join and no charge for broker participation.
ENROLL
Choose Your Option
COURSE ONLY
Operating a New Brokerage Firm
$199
- 15-hour online video course
- Watch on any computer or device
- Professional development (not CE credit)
BEST VALUE
Manfred Member
$13.99 / month
- This course FREE
- Unlimited continuing education
- 50% off broker licensing courses
- Unlimited exam prep tools
- Free job postings on our Real Estate Career Board
FOR GROWING FIRMS
Member Plus
$60 / month
- Everything in Manfred Member
- Statewide and nationwide MLS access
- Unlimited CMAs, no listing fines or fees
- IDX integration and data feed
- 500+ marketing templates
- Nationwide Pro Search
- No boards to join, no broker participation fees
FAQ
Starting a Brokerage in NY: Common Questions
What do I need to open a real estate brokerage in New York?
You need a New York real estate broker license, a registered business entity and a broker license application filed for your firm. You'll also need an escrow account for client funds, office policies and a plan for marketing and recruiting.
How long does it take to become a broker in NY?
It depends on your experience, how quickly you finish the 75-hour broker course and when you schedule your exams. Many agents complete the process in a few months. See broker license requirements.
Can I run my brokerage from a home office?
In many cases, yes, as long as you meet Department of State requirements and your local zoning rules allow it. Check with your municipality before you set up.
How much does it cost to start a brokerage?
Costs vary, but plan for licensing and filing fees, business formation, insurance, technology, MLS access and marketing. The course covers how to build a startup budget for a lean, profitable firm.
Do I need E&O insurance?
New York doesn't require brokers to carry errors and omissions insurance, but it's strongly recommended to protect your firm.
Does this course count toward continuing education?
No. Operating a New Brokerage Firm is a professional development course. For your CE requirement, Manfred Members get unlimited continuing education included.
How do I recruit agents for my new firm?
Offer competitive splits, training and a strong culture. Manfred Members can post openings for free on our Real Estate Career Board.
LET'S BUILD YOUR BROKERAGE
Moving From Agent to Broker-Owner?
Manfred has guided hundreds of New York professionals from their first broker application to their long-term business strategy. Call or text and talk to a real person.
Call 518-855-3680 Start the Course