In my previous article, "The Easiest Profession in the World," I outlined the challenges we face as real estate agents. Now, I'm going to propose constructive solutions that will benefit our entire ecosystem, even though many might consider this a "crazy" idea.
Following the extensive discussions sparked by my reflections on the challenges facing our profession, I have received invaluable feedback from colleagues, developers, and clients. As a lawyer, real estate advisor, advocate for the industry, and board member of the Association of Real Estate Agents and Companies (AEI), I feel a responsibility to channel these concerns into constructive proposals that will strengthen our entire sector.
As we work toward passing the bill to regulate our industry, I believe this is the perfect time to reflect on complementary models that protect both agents and developers. Because there are no crazy ideas, only crazy people who have no ideas, and our sector desperately needs ideas.
The necessary conversation
In my previous article, I described the reality we all face: agents investing months and years of work without payment guarantees, developers and trust companies that condition payments on external variables such as "whether the client accepts the increase," and commissions that take years to materialize. But I've also heard the legitimate concerns from the other side of the equation.
Some developers have expressed their frustration with agents who disappear after collecting their commission, without following up with the client until the final project delivery. Others mention cases where they've paid full commissions for sales that are later canceled due to a lack of professional support.
Here's the opportunity: instead of remaining in a vicious cycle of mistrust, we can create a model that protects and benefits all parties. Because let's be honest: we're the only professionals who agree to work for free hoping to get paid "someday."
A historic opportunity for transformation
The bill our AEI is promoting to regulate the real estate sector represents a unique opportunity to address these structural challenges. As part of this modernization effort, I propose that we consider including alternatives that not only protect the professional work of agents but also provide guarantees for developers and better service for clients.
The central proposal revolves around evolving towards a professional fee model that complements, not replaces, the traditional system. Imagine a scheme where professional real estate consulting is partially charged as upfront fees, recognizing that we are professionals who incur expenses and deserve compensation for our work like any other advisor. Because we are not "showroom attendants" as some believe.
How would this evolutionary model work?
This hybrid system would include bidirectional protection mechanisms . For agents, it would offer payment guarantees for work performed, protected commission contracts , and protection for time invested . For developers, it would include contractual commitments to support the project until delivery and professional performance evaluation systems.
The beauty of this model lies in its alignment of incentives. Agents receive immediate compensation for their expertise while maintaining a financial stake in the transaction's ultimate success. Developers gain comprehensive service guarantees and more engaged agents. Clients receive objective advice without sales pressure.
Learning from international markets
In the United States, many buyer's agents charge retainer fees for specialized services. In several countries, hybrid models have significantly increased the professionalization of the sector.
Can you imagine a doctor telling you, “I’ll operate on you for free, and you only pay me if you get better”? Well, that’s exactly what we do. Why can’t the Dominican Republic lead this evolution in the Caribbean?
Gradual and responsible implementation
I'm not proposing to eliminate the traditional model overnight. Instead, I suggest a gradual that begins with specialized services for international investors and consulting on complex projects. This pilot phase would allow us to measure results and refine the proposal.
During this phase, we could also establish clear protocols that address developers' concerns. Contracts that clearly specify the agent's responsibilities throughout the entire process, from sale to delivery.
Benefits for the entire ecosystem
For real estate professionals, this model would offer more predictable income, a true valuation of specialized knowledge, and greater professionalization of the sector. For developers, it would guarantee more committed and better support for the end customer. Clients would benefit from access to specialized expertise and objective advice.
A call for collective reflection
As professionals committed to excellence, we must ask ourselves how we can guarantee the sustainability of our profession and what mechanisms we need to protect both the work done and the quality of the service provided. The stark reality is that we have conditioned the market to believe that our knowledge is worthless.
From my position on the AEI board, I invite all professionals in the sector to reflect on these proposals and actively participate in the process of strengthening the sector. What other ideas can complement the bill we are promoting?
The perfect time for transformation
We have a historic window of opportunity with the process of regulating our services. I am committed to bringing these proposals to the AEI's internal discussions, facilitating dialogue with all sectors of the industry, and researching international best practices.
A collective decision towards excellence
This proposal marks the beginning of a necessary conversation that must include all voices within our ecosystem. As a sector, we must decide whether we want to maintain the status quo, evolve towards more sustainable models, or lead the transformation of the regional real estate sector.
I invite developers, trust companies, agents, brokers, and all professionals in the real estate ecosystem to participate in this discussion. Let's share ideas, proposals, and constructive solutions. Because the strength of our sector depends on our ability to innovate, adapt, and work together toward common goals.
The future of our wonderful profession is in our hands. Let's build it with the same passion and professionalism with which we serve our clients every day. What are your proposals for strengthening our industry?
Because let's be brutally honest: the traditional commission model has us financially unstable and that has to change.
The opinions expressed in this article are the sole responsibility of its author.
