Where Are Top Agents Going? New Report Reveals the Truth About Brokerage Models and Migration Trends
The real estate industry is in flux — and top-producing agents are on the move. A new Q1 2025 Agent Migration and Brokerage Performance Report, released by Recruiting Insight and in partnership with BoldTrail and MyBFFSocial, breaks down where these agents are going, what’s driving their decisions, and how different brokerage models are performing in this high-stakes environment.
Here’s what brokerages and team leaders need to know — and why it matters right now.
1. Agent Movement Is High — and Strategic
Over 26,000 active producing agents changed brokerages in Q1 of 2025 alone. That’s 13% of all active operators — representing a staggering 129,000+ sides of transaction volume.
Agents aren’t just looking for new logos — they’re seeking better leadership, better technology, and better alignment with their long-term business goals.
2. Tech-Forward Brokerages Are Winning the Right Talent
Brokerage models that are deeply integrated with tech-enabled platforms like BoldTrail are capturing high-performing agents at scale. According to the report, these models are attracting agents with nearly double the median sales volume compared to others.
Translation: Top agents are voting with their feet — and they’re choosing brokerages that give them tools to work smarter and scale.
3. Traditional Models Still Hold Power — But Not Without Risk
While traditional brokerages may not be growing as fast, they continue to benefit from high retention. These firms tend to offer stronger brand recognition, a local market presence, and time-tested systems that keep agents rooted — especially those who value stability.
However, growth in this segment is slow. Without innovation, even well-established brands could see long-term challenges.
4. Capped Rev Share Models: High Turnover, High Risk
The report also revealed that capped revenue share models saw the highest number of inbound agents — but also the highest outbound migration. The data suggests that while these models are attracting attention, they may lack the leadership, culture, or onboarding support to retain agents long-term.
5. Leadership Is the X-Factor
Brokerages with clear leadership, vision, and support systems are outperforming their peers in both retention and agent productivity. Whether tech-focused or traditional, successful firms are those that lead from the front and invest in agent success.
What This Means for You
If you're leading a brokerage or team, this report is your competitive edge. It offers the data and context needed to make smarter recruiting decisions and build a business agents want to be a part of.
Agents are moving — but they’re not moving randomly. They’re looking for better tools, better leadership, and a brokerage model that sets them up to thrive. If you’re not giving them a reason to stay, someone else will.