Recruiting at a small brokerage is often reactive. At scale, it becomes a standing monthly target. One brokerage in our own client base put it in exact terms: 25 agents a month to reach 200 agents in a year, then 8 a month after that.
eXp Realty built its growth on a decentralized, agent-led downline model. Compass grows centrally through acquisitions, completing its acquisition of Coldwell Banker's parent company in a January 2026 merger. Keller Williams created new dedicated "Growth & Attraction" leadership roles in July 2026. Real Broker markets "zero recruitment pressure" as a differentiator against the downline model.
None of the largest brands treat recruiting as ad hoc anymore. NAR's 2026 Member Profile notes existing-home sales at their lowest pace since 1995 alongside continued consolidation, a brokerage recruiting at scale is often standing in exactly the moment an agent is reconsidering.