What is a Sponsoring Broker in New York?

A sponsoring broker in New York is a licensed real estate broker who supervises and employs salespersons and associate brokers. You cannot hold an active real estate license in New York without being affiliated with a sponsoring broker. This requirement applies to both new licenses and renewals.

Sponsoring Broker vs. Salesperson vs. Associate Broker

Role	License Required	Can Supervise Agents?	Can Work Independently?
Sponsoring Broker	Broker license	Yes	Yes
Associate Broker	Broker license	No (works under sponsoring broker)	No
Salesperson	Salesperson license	No	No

A sponsoring broker runs the brokerage and takes legal responsibility for all agents working under them. Associate brokers have broker-level credentials but choose to work under another broker rather than operate independently. Salespersons are entry-level licensees who must work under a sponsoring broker.

What Does a Sponsoring Broker Do?

Sponsoring brokers handle the business and compliance side of real estate so their agents can focus on clients. Their responsibilities include:

Supervision and compliance

• Holding the licenses of all affiliated agents and associate brokers

• Ensuring agents follow New York real estate laws and regulations

• Managing agent information in the eAccessNY systemNydos SelSearchType.do Appext20.dos.ny.gov

• Taking responsibility if an agent violates state rules

Business operations

• Collecting commissions on transactions

• Distributing commission splits to agents

• Providing office space, documents, and supplies

• Setting brokerage policies and procedures

Training and mentorship

• Mentoring new agents through their first transactions

• Providing ongoing professional development

• Offering guidance on contracts, negotiations, and client management

The commission split between broker and agent varies by brokerage. New agents typically start with a 50/50 or 60/40 split, while experienced agents may negotiate 70/30 or higher.

How to Find a Sponsoring Broker in New York

Start your search before you finish your pre-licensing coursework. You'll need a sponsoring broker's information to complete your license application.

Step 1: Research brokerage types Decide between large national brands (Keller Williams, RE/MAX, Coldwell Banker), boutique local firms, or virtual brokerages. Each offers different commission structures, training programs, and support levels.

Step 2: Interview multiple brokers Ask about commission splits, desk fees, training programs, lead generation, and marketing support. A good sponsoring broker invests in new agent success.

Step 3: Review the independent contractor agreement Understand all fees, commission structures, and expectations before signing. Most agents are independent contractors, not employees.

Step 4: Complete the affiliation process Once you choose a broker, they'll authorize your license application or process a change of association through eAccessNY.

Learn more about choosing your first brokerage in New YorkNew York Choose Your First Real Estate Brokerage New York Career Center.

How to Become a Sponsoring Broker in New York

To sponsor other agents, you must first obtain a New York broker license.

Requirement	Details
Minimum age	20 years old
Experience	2 years as salesperson OR 3 years general real estate experience
Education	77-hour salesperson course + 45-hour broker course
Exam	Pass New York broker exam
Application	Submit through eAccessNY
Exception	NY-admitted attorneys may skip experience/education requirements

Once licensed as a broker, you can sponsor agents by authorizing their initial application or processing a change of association through your eAccessNY account.

Learn more about how to become a broker in New YorkNew York Become New York Real Estate Broker 8 Steps Career Center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a sponsoring broker to get my real estate license in New York? Yes. You cannot hold an active salesperson or associate broker license in New York without a sponsoring broker affiliation.

Can I change sponsoring brokers in New York? Yes. Your new broker processes the change of association through eAccessNY. There's no waiting period, but you should review any contract terms with your current broker first.

How much do sponsoring brokers charge? Commission splits vary widely. New agents typically see 50/50 to 60/40 splits. Some brokerages also charge desk fees, transaction fees, or monthly fees.

What's the difference between a sponsoring broker and a brokerage? The sponsoring broker is the individual license holder responsible for supervising agents. The brokerage is the company or business entity where agents work. A sponsoring broker may own the brokerage or be designated by the brokerage owner.

Can I work for multiple sponsoring brokers? No. You can only be affiliated with one sponsoring broker at a time in New York.

Ready to Get Your New York Real Estate License?

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