Keller Williams US is a network marketing company and real estate franchise founded in 1983, based in Austin, Texas.
The company operates through independent distributors who sell real estate products and earn commissions through retail sales and team-building.
With a BBB rating of B and a Trustpilot score of 2.8/5, Keller Williams US has room for improvement, especially given the income disclosure showing concentration among top earners.
Pros and Cons
✓ Pros
- Established company
Keller Williams has been around since 1983, which shows they have staying power in the industry.
- Training and support
They provide extensive training and resources for new distributors, which can help you get started.
- Flexible earning potential
With both retail sales and team-building commissions, there's room to earn at different levels.
- Low risk level
The income disclosure indicates a low risk of financial loss compared to many other MLMs.
- Decent trust score
An 80/100 trust score gives a sense of reliability, especially for a company this size.
✗ Cons
- High top earner concentration
Most of the income is concentrated among a small percentage of top earners, which can be discouraging.
- Monthly purchase requirements
You need to make regular purchases to qualify for full commissions, which can add up.
- Mixed reviews
With a Trustpilot rating of 2.8/5, many people have had negative experiences.
- Retail focus may not suit all
If you’re not comfortable with sales or networking, this might not be the right fit.
- Limited product variety
Some distributors have noted that the product range isn't as broad as they would like.
Verdict: Keller Williams has a solid reputation and offers good training, but the income distribution may make it tough for most people to succeed. If you're willing to put in the effort, it could be worth considering, but be cautious about the financial commitments involved.
Best for: This is for individuals who are comfortable with sales and networking, and who are looking for flexible earning options. If you prefer a more traditional job structure, this might not be for you.
Risk Analysis
Keller Williams US has a low overall risk profile, but potential recruits should be cautious about income concentration among top earners and the monthly purchase requirements for full commissions. These factors can impact earnings for the majority of distributors.
Key Concerns
- Top earner concentration high
Income disclosure shows that a significant portion of total earnings is concentrated among a small percentage of top earners.
- Monthly purchase requirements moderate
Distributors must meet monthly purchase requirements to qualify for full commissions, which can lead to unnecessary expenses and pressure to sell.
Positive Indicators
- Established company
Founded in 1983, Keller Williams has over 40 years of experience in the real estate sector.
- Reasonable trust score
Trust Score of 80/100 suggests a generally positive reputation among participants.
Consumer Advice: If you're considering joining Keller Williams, be aware of the income distribution skew and the monthly purchase requirements. Make sure to evaluate if you can comfortably meet those expenses, especially in the early stages while building your team.
Frequently Asked Questions About Keller Williams US
Is Keller Williams US a legitimate MLM company?
Yes, Keller Williams US is a legitimate company founded in 1983 and based in Austin, Texas. They operate as a real estate brokerage and also have a multi-level marketing (MLM) component for their agents.
What products does Keller Williams US sell?
Keller Williams US primarily offers real estate services rather than traditional retail products. Their main focus is on connecting buyers and sellers, but they do provide training and resources for agents to help grow their businesses.
How much can you make with Keller Williams US?
Earnings with Keller Williams US can vary significantly based on your sales and team-building efforts. The income disclosure shows that top earners make a substantial income, but most distributors earn much less, especially when starting out.
Are there complaints about Keller Williams US?
Yes, there are some complaints about Keller Williams US, particularly regarding their commission structure and monthly purchase requirements. Some agents feel pressured to meet sales quotas to maintain their earnings.
What is the compensation plan for Keller Williams US?
Keller Williams US uses a Unilevel compensation plan. This means you earn commissions from your personal sales and can also earn from the sales made by your recruits, with higher rates unlocked as you advance in rank.
How much does it cost to join Keller Williams US?
Joining Keller Williams US typically involves initial fees for training and marketing materials, but exact amounts can vary by location. It's best to check with a local office for specific costs.
What is Keller Williams US's BBB rating?
Keller Williams US has a BBB rating of B. While they have a long history, there are some complaints that have affected their overall rating.
What is Keller Williams US's Trustpilot score?
Keller Williams US has a Trustpilot score of 2.8 out of 5. This indicates mixed reviews from users, with some praising the company and others expressing dissatisfaction.
What alternatives are there to Keller Williams US?
Alternatives to Keller Williams US include other real estate brokerages like RE/MAX, Coldwell Banker, or smaller boutique agencies. Each has its own commission structures and training opportunities, so it's worth exploring.
Is Keller Williams US worth joining?
Whether Keller Williams US is worth joining depends on your goals. If you're passionate about real estate and willing to put in the effort, it can be a viable option, but earnings can vary widely.