Agent turnover is common in real estate. Whether it’s a business owner parting ways with a  salesperson, a lead agent losing an associate, or an agent moving on to a new opportunity,  changes in a team are inevitable. 

According to Adrian Bo, CEO of Adrian Bo Real Estate Training & Auctions, who has been the  Owner & Principal of many real estate offices and held senior corporate leadership positions,  the way these transitions are handled can have a lasting impact on reputations, future  opportunities, and even business performance. 

Adrian has always held the philosophy that: “As long as the individual leaves the organisation a better version of themselves both  professionally and personally, compared to when they joined, then my objective was satisfied.” 

This mindset ensures that departures are seen not as setbacks, but as part of the professional  growth journey for both the individual and the business. 

Why Departures Should Be Handled with Professionalism 

In real estate, it’s never wise to burn bridges. Many agents leave a role in pursuit of what they  believe is a better opportunity, only to realise later that the grass isn’t always greener. 

Adrian has seen many instances where an agent or associate returns to their previous office or  team, realising they had a stronger foundation in their original environment. However, this only  happens if the departure was handled professionally and with mutual respect. 

A hostile or acrimonious split makes it nearly impossible for someone to return, even if both  sides later see the value in working together again. 

For Business Owners and Team Leaders 

When an agent or associate decides to leave, it’s crucial to handle the transition with dignity,  respect, and professionalism. 

Best practices include: 

• Supporting their decision rather than making it personal. 
• Avoiding negative discussions about their departure with staff or clients. • Leaving the door open for future collaboration, should the opportunity arise. 

It’s important to remember that in many cases, team members move on simply because they  want to explore new opportunities, not because of dissatisfaction with their current  environment. Treating their exit with class strengthens your reputation and keeps relationships  intact. 

Adrian’s philosophy ensures that business owners focus on personal and professional  development—so that whether an individual stays or moves on, their time within the  organisation has contributed to their growth.

For Agents and Associates Moving On 

If you’re the agent or associate leaving a role, professionalism is just as important. The industry  is small, and how you leave one position can impact future opportunities down the track. 

Best practices include: 

• Leaving with integrity—don’t take data or confidential information. 
• Avoid directly contacting past clients in an attempt to bring them over.
• Expressing gratitude for the opportunity, regardless of your reasons for leaving. 

When agents leave on good terms, they keep their options open for future referrals,  collaborations, or even returning to the same business later. 

Real estate is a relationship-driven industry. How you handle professional changes today can  influence your career for years to come. 

By ensuring that all departures—whether as an employer, a lead agent, or an associate—are  respectful and professional, agents can protect their reputations and maintain valuable  industry connections. 

As Adrian Bo puts it: "The grass isn’t always greener—it’s greenest where you choose to water it."

By Adrian Bo, CEO of Adrian Bo Real Estate Training & Auctions.

More Adrian Bo readings 

Staying in Touch: The Key to Long-Term Real Estate Success | The Real Estate Conversation

The Danger of waiting for perfection in Real Estate | The Real Estate Conversation

Handling Buyer Objections: How to stay firm on price while maintaining trust | The Real Estate Conversation

The Truth About Being a Standalone Agent in Real Estate | The Real Estate Conversation

How Putting People First Builds Reputation and Success | The Real Estate Conversation