New Agent Training Office: FAQ

Q. What is NATO? The New Agent Training Office, located in Kahala, is the place to jump start your real estate career with a unique program dedicated solely to the success of new agents coming into the business.

Q. Do I Need an Active Real Estate License in NATO? Yes. All agents with Coldwell Banker must have passed the State of Hawaii real estate exam and will obtain an active real estate license with our help.

Q. Is Real Estate a Full Time Job? Yes. On average, agents will devote 60 to 70 hours per week to their real estate activities. Your time in NATO will include assignments and training sessions to get you ready for the "real world". You will work on weekends at open houses and with buyers and sellers, while learning the ropes on building your client base and personal networking systems.

Q. Can I have another job while beginning my real estate career? Yes. Many agents will work a part time job with hours flexible enough to accommodate the demands of their real estate career.

Q. How much time will it take to complete my training at NATO? Agents begin with a 6 week training program from 8:00am to about 3:30pm. Each agent graduates from NATO at their own pace. The average time in NATO to meet all performance standards is 6 months, at which time, agents are eligible to interview with our sales offices. Agents can be with NATO up to 12 months.

Q. How do I pass the training program? To graduate out of NATO, an agent must complete 3 transactions, have worked on a full time basis, and have successfully completed the 6 week training course. An agent's first performance standard is to be in escrow by the end of their 4th month.

Q. What topics will be covered in NATO? We show you how to operate as a Realtor from the very beginning. You'll learn how to hold an open house, how to generate new business, how to read market trends, and how to run your business. Some of the other topics covered include Contracts, Surveys, and Title, Marketing Techniques, Negotiating Skills, Sales Skills, Financing, MLS/Tempo, Escrow, and Time Management.

Q. What is the cost to join Coldwell Banker Pacific Properties? Agents can expect an initial investment of approximately $2,400.00 when they sign on to any brokerage firm. The cost associated with joining our Coldwell Banker Pacific Properties team include but are not limited to National (NAR), State (HAR) and local (HBR) Realtor Board & Dues , Multiple Listing Service (MLS) membership , Error and Omissions Insurance, Name Tags, Business Cards, General Excise Tax License and Professional Photos. Agents planning a basic annual budget should allow for a minimum investment of $3,000.00.

Q. Can I earn money while in NATO? Absolutely! As an Independent Contractor, you choose your commission plan and you determine how quickly you earn while you learn.

Q. When can I expect my first commission check? On average, agents can expect their first commission check between 4 and 6 months from the launch of their career in real estate. It's up to you!

Q. How many months of "reserve" income should I have when I start my real estate career? On average, agents should have between 4 and 6 months of reserve income saved to meet the demands of every day life in Hawaii while they build their real estate career.

Q. Are there professional appearance standards while in NATO? Yes. Every office, including the NATO office, is a professional working environment. Your first impression is your lasting impression to clients and peers alike. Dress for success every day.

Q. Can I choose the office I want to join when I successfully complete my NATO training? Coldwell Banker agents have a distinct advantage in that they can interview with all of our sales offices and together, find the perfect fit to take their career to the next level.

Q. Is there a cost for desk space? No. There are no desk fees associated with any Coldwell Banker Pacific Properties office.

Q. Do I need a laptop computer and a cellular phone? It is highly recommended that agents have a laptop and a cell phone. With your office at your fingertips, agents have the tools they need to exceed their client's expectations!

Q. Does Coldwell Banker give me leads? While in NATO, agents will receive the training and the tools to be able to take advantage of the many lead generating programs and opportunities available at Coldwell Banker.