I spent 30 years in real estate. I worked for major networks, built agencies, and saw hundreds of professionals ask the same question: “Can I make it on my own, without depending on a structure?”
The answer is yes. But “on my own” does not mean without a system.
What It Means to Be an Independent Real Estate Agent
An independent agent is a licensed real estate broker who operates on their own, with a VAT number, without being employed by or affiliated with a traditional agency.
There is no franchise logo over their head. They choose their clients, their prices, their schedule. They keep the commissions in full (or almost), without giving up a share to a franchisor.
This is the preferred model for many seasoned professionals with an established network. For those starting from scratch, it requires more initial effort and greater awareness of the risks.
Requirements to Operate Independently
To work as a real estate agent in Italy, you need 4 things. None of them is optional.
Real estate agent license. The standard path is an enabling course (usually 120–150 hours, provided by entities recognized by the Chamber of Commerce) followed by a theoretical-practical exam. The exam is taken at the Chamber of Commerce of the province where you reside or work.
REA registration. After passing the exam, you register as an individual agent. Without this registration, any brokerage activity is illegal and the contract is void.
VAT number. With the correct ATECO code for real estate services (68.31.00).
Professional liability insurance. Mandatory by law. It covers damages caused to third parties during the activity.
Initial costs are accessible: enabling course between €1,000 and €2,000, REA contribution around €200, RC insurance from about €300 per year.
The Different Operating Models
Once licensed, you have several options.
Individual agent. You operate in full autonomy. You build your own brand, your own commissions, your own visibility. No fixed network costs. No network support.
It is the model with the highest earning potential, and also the highest initial risk. If you do not already have a client and referral network, the first months can be hard.
Independent agent network. You operate under a shared brand, with common tools (CRM, portals, training), without paying monthly royalties or desk fees. The entry cost is a one-time contribution. Commissions are higher than those of a traditional agency employee, and they remain yours.
This is the model on which I built Hasamia. I explain it in more detail in the dedicated section.
Traditional franchise. The well-known brand brings visibility, but also fixed monthly costs, royalties on your work, and operational constraints. I wrote a detailed analysis of what a real estate franchise involves and when it makes sense in this article: Real Estate Franchise: How It Works and What to Evaluate.
How Much an Independent Agent Earns in 2026
There are many variables: location, specialization, existing network, and the type of properties handled.
As a practical reference:
An independent agent who closes 10–15 transactions per year on properties with an average value of €250,000 and a 2% gross commission earns between €50,000 and €75,000 gross.
The difference versus working inside a traditional agency lies in the share of the commission you keep. In an agency as an employee or collaborator, you often start from 20–30% of the total. As an independent agent in a network, you can reach 60–75%.
I detailed the different earning structures in the article on how much a real estate agent earns in 2026.
The Real Challenges of Independence
Being independent means not having an agency that brings you clients, a brand that creates instant trust, a CRM managed by someone else, or support when a deal becomes complicated.
You build all of that yourself.
For professionals with 5–10 years of experience, a solid network, and the ability to handle a transaction from start to finish, it is manageable. For those starting from zero, the learning curve alone is long and expensive.
The most capable professionals I know never needed a traditional agency. What they needed was tools, a management system, and visibility on the right portals. Today, you do not buy those things simply by opening an office.
The Hasamia Model for Independent Agents
I founded Hasamia with this in mind: giving agents the tools of a large network without the constraints of a franchise.
No monthly royalties. No desk fees. No obligation for a physical office. One-time entry contribution, commissions up to 75%, digital platform, national and international portals, training, and a network of colleagues.
The 3 available paths are:
Starter: for those beginning or wanting to test the system. Commissions 30–60%, 90 days of training and mentoring.
Pro: for those with experience who want more operational autonomy. Commissions 40–70%.
Ambassador: for those who want to manage an exclusive province, develop the local network, and coordinate other agents. Commissions up to 75%, with the possibility of activating the Hasamia equity program.
Those who want to learn more can visit the dedicated page: hasamia.it/partner-hasamia.
Independent Agent vs Opening an Agency
Opening your own agency means managing a structure: office, staff, fixed costs, bureaucracy. It is a different business from brokerage work.
I went deeper into what opening a real estate agency entails, the real costs, and when it makes sense compared with a network model in this article: Opening a Real Estate Agency in 2026: What You Need to Know.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you work as an agent without opening an agency?
Yes. A licensed agent can operate as a freelancer with a VAT number, without a physical office. They must be registered with REA and hold the license.
What are the requirements?
Real estate agent license (course + exam), REA registration, VAT number, and mandatory professional liability insurance.
How much does an independent agent earn?
It depends on the model. With 10–15 transactions per year on mid-value properties, earnings can reach €50,000–€75,000 gross. In a network like Hasamia, commissions range from 30% to 75% per transaction.
Do you need a physical office?
No. The law does not require it for agents registered as individuals. Many work remotely or use shared spaces for client meetings.
What is the difference between independent and franchise?
A franchise brings royalties and monthly desk fees. An independent agent has more freedom but must build visibility and tools on their own. Networks like Hasamia offer a middle ground: shared tools and brand, without fixed costs.
Is the license valid nationwide?
Yes. After REA registration, the license is valid throughout Italy.
