The BuyBox Blog

Practical guides for brokers.

Commission plans, agent compensation, brokerage operations, and CRM advice — written by a working broker.

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Comparison Guide
Tools & Software
Free vs Paid Real Estate CRM: What Does a Small Brokerage Actually Need?
Most real estate CRMs are built for individual agents, not brokerages. Here's an honest breakdown of what features actually matter for brokerage back-office operations — and when it makes sense to pay more.
David Janke · March 23, 2026 · 7 min read Read →
Brokerage Management
How to Set Up Commission Plans for Your Real Estate Brokerage
A step-by-step guide to structuring commission plans — franchise fees, agent splits, transaction fees, and cap calculations explained with real examples.
March 23, 2026 · 8 min read Read →
Commission & Compensation
What Is an Agent Cap and How Does It Work?
The agent cap is one of the most powerful recruiting tools in real estate — and one of the most misunderstood. Here's exactly how caps work, how to set the right number, and how to track them.
March 23, 2026 · 6 min read Read →
Brokerage Compliance
Compliance Tracking for Real Estate Brokers: License Renewal, E&O, MLS Affiliations
License renewals, E&O insurance, MLS dues, CE hours — what every brokerage owner has to track, the real cost of a lapsed license, and how to do it without a spreadsheet.
April 25, 2026 · 7 min read Read →
Franchise Operations
Franchise Fees Explained: What Every Affiliate Brokerage Pays the Parent Brand
Royalty, marketing fund, technology fees, transaction fees — a clear breakdown of what franchise brokerages actually pay each year, with worked examples for a 10-agent brokerage.
April 25, 2026 · 8 min read Read →
Brokerage Metrics
What Is GCI? The Real Estate Broker's Most Misunderstood Number
Gross Commission Income — what counts, what doesn't, how it differs from net commission and brokerage cut. Worked examples on a real $400K closing.
April 25, 2026 · 6 min read Read →

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