The Canadian real estate landscape is constantly evolving, and 2025 is no exception. Across the country, REALTORS® are navigating a market that looks very different from just a few years ago. With shifting interest rates, tighter inventory in some regions, with an over abundance in others, and buyers and sellers adopting a more cautious approach, agents are being called to rethink how they run their businesses. One of the most common questions in times of change is whether it’s better to go solo or to join a team. The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, but understanding the advantages and challenges of both paths can help you make the right decision for your business and your lifestyle.
The Solo Advantage
Working as a solo agent has long been the traditional route in real estate. For many REALTORS®, independence is one of the biggest appeals. As a solo agent, you have complete control over your branding, marketing, client relationships, and business decisions. This freedom can be especially important in a shifting market where agility is key. If you need to pivot your marketing strategy, explore new lead-generation tools, or adjust your pricing recommendations, you can make decisions quickly without having to consult with a team.
Another benefit is the ability to keep more of your commission. While solo agents shoulder all the expenses of running their business, they also retain full compensation for the work they put in. For experienced REALTORS® who already have a strong database, referral network, and established systems, the solo path may feel like the natural fit, even in a tougher market.
However, it’s important to note that being a solo agent in a shifting environment can also be demanding. You are responsible for every aspect of your business, from lead generation to transaction management to client care. In a busy market, this workload can be overwhelming, and in a slower market, the pressure to generate consistent business can feel heavy. Discipline, focus, and resilience become essential traits for solo success.
The Team Edge
On the other side of the equation, joining a real estate team can provide a strong support system, particularly in a market where every lead counts and client expectations are high. Teams often provide shared resources such as administrative support, marketing platforms, training opportunities, and built-in mentorship. For newer agents, this structure can be invaluable, offering a faster learning curve and a steady flow of leads that might be difficult to generate independently.
Team members also benefit from collaboration. In challenging markets, the ability to share strategies, discuss client objections, and lean on each other’s expertise can make a real difference. A strong team culture can help you stay motivated when the market feels uncertain, and it can also provide accountability, which is often the missing ingredient for REALTORS® struggling to maintain consistency.
Financially, team members often trade a portion of their commission for access to these resources and opportunities. While this may seem like a drawback, many agents find that the increased volume of transactions and the professional growth they gain more than compensate for the split. In fact, during market shifts, some REALTORS® discover that their net income actually grows as part of a team compared to working solo, simply because they have more opportunities to close deals.
Which Is Better in a Shifting Market?
The truth is, both solo agents and team members can thrive in a shifting Canadian real estate market. It comes down to your personality, business goals, and stage of career. If you’re highly independent, disciplined, and already have a strong client base, being a solo agent allows you to remain nimble and keep full control over your business. If, however, you’re looking for mentorship, systems, or the power of collaboration, joining a team may help you accelerate your growth and weather the ups and downs of the market with more confidence.
What matters most is clarity. Ask yourself:
- Do I prefer full independence or do I thrive in collaboration?
- Am I equipped with the systems and support I need to manage every aspect of my business right now?
- Would I benefit more from keeping 100% of fewer deals, or from sharing in a higher volume of opportunities?
Answering these questions honestly will point you toward the right path.
The Canadian real estate market will always experience cycles, and every cycle brings with it both challenges and opportunities. Whether you choose to run your business as a solo agent or to join a team, success ultimately depends on your ability to adapt, to keep building strong client relationships, and to invest in the skills and strategies that matter most. A shifting market doesn’t have to mean uncertainty, it can be the perfect time to reassess your path, refine your focus, and step confidently into the future of your real estate career.
And remember, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Connect with team leaders and solo agents you admire and ask the tough questions. The great thing about our industry is that REALTORS® are almost always willing to share their experiences and insights. Learning from others who have already walked the path can give you clarity and confidence as you decide on your own best way forward.
Good luck with your choice.
