For rookies in real estate, both paths can lead to long-term success. Two experienced agents explain the pros and cons of each.

A critical decision all new real estate professionals must make when they join the business is whether they want to establish themselves as an individual agent or as part of a team. Neither choice necessarily presents a smoother road to success than the other. It depends on what’s most important to you. If you crave a strong support system to help you get up and running, you probably want to join a team. But if you thrive on being independent—and you want to keep as much of your commission as possible—you may want to fly solo. Two agents who chose opposite paths explain the benefits and drawbacks of each.