The Real Deal New York

From the March issue: Brokerage William B. May has changed its business model so brokers can receive 100 percent of their commissions. Charles Rutenberg Realty adopted a similar model in 2006, as reported by The Real Deal, in which brokers pay fees to the brokerage, but don’t have to give up any of their commission. At William B. May, brokers will be required to pay a one-time $1,500 fee, and $500 per month, according to managing partner Craig Lamb. The brokers don’t have to pay a fee per transaction, which sets this system apart from Charles Rutenberg Realty’s commission model. The brokers will be able to use the William B. May name on Web sites and stationery. They will also have a William B. May e-mail address, voicemail and use of the firm’s marketing materials. But other than that, the brokers are free agents. They have their own clients, listings and commissions, and are not under pressure to make sales, Lamb said.