As a realtor, having a reliable business checking account is essential to managing your finances effectively. Whether you’re a seasoned real estate agent or just starting in the industry, choosing the right business checking account can help you streamline your financial management and grow your business. 

In this article, we’ll explore the factors that realtors should consider when selecting a business checking account and compare the top options available.

Understanding the Unique Banking Needs of Realtors

Realtors have unique banking needs that set them apart from other small business owners. Commission payments, managing client trust accounts, and tracking business expenses are just some of the specific challenges that real estate agents face. 

Here’s a closer look at each of these challenges:

Managing commission payments

One of the biggest financial challenges faced by realtors is managing commission payments. Commission payments can vary in amount and frequency, making it essential to have a business checking account that can handle these transactions seamlessly. Additionally, realtors need to access their commission payments quickly and easily to manage their finances efficiently.

One solution to this challenge is to work with a bank that specializes in serving real estate agents. These banks can offer tailored financial products and services that meet the unique needs of realtors. For example, some banks offer commission advance services, which allow real estate agents to access their commission payments before the closing of a sale. This can be a helpful solution for realtors who need to cover expenses or invest in their business before receiving their commission payments.

Tracking business expenses

Another vital aspect of financial management for real estate agents is keeping track of business expenses. From advertising costs to office supplies, realtors have numerous expenses that need to be tracked and managed efficiently. A business checking account that offers detailed transaction tracking and robust accounting capabilities can make it easier for realtors to stay on top of their expenses.

Furthermore, some banks offer online banking tools that allow real estate agents to categorize their expenses and generate reports. This can be a valuable feature for realtors who want to analyze their spending habits and identify areas where they can cut costs or invest more money.

Handling client trust accounts

Realtors are often required to hold client trust accounts for security deposits and other transactions. As such, real estate agents need a business checking account that can handle transactions related to client trust accounts and keep them separate from personal and business accounts.

One way to manage client trust accounts is to work with a bank that offers escrow services. Escrow services can help real estate agents manage client funds and ensure that they are used appropriately. Additionally, some banks offer tools that allow realtors to track the balance of their client trust accounts and generate reports for their clients.

Realtors have unique banking needs that require specialized financial products and services. By working with a bank that understands the challenges faced by real estate agents, realtors can manage their finances more efficiently and focus on growing their business.

Comparing Top Business Checking Account Options

When it comes to selecting the best business checking account for your real estate business, there are a lot of choices. Each bank has its own unique features and benefits that cater to different needs and preferences. 

Using Nav simplifies the search and shows you the right account for your business. Here are some of the top options on the market today.

Found

Small Business Checking by Bank of America

Bluevine Business Banking

Nav Business Checking

Online & Mobile Small Business Checking by Bank Novo

Ultimately, the best business checking account for your real estate business will depend on your specific needs and preferences. By comparing the features and benefits of each option, you can make an informed decision and choose the account that best suits your business goals.

Evaluating Account Fees and Requirements

When evaluating the best business checking account for realtors, you’ll want to consider the account fees and requirements. Here are a few things to look out for:

Monthly maintenance fees

Monthly maintenance fees can add up quickly, so it’s essential to choose a checking account that offers low or no fees. Some accounts waive the maintenance fee altogether if you maintain a certain balance or meet other criteria.

It’s important to note that some accounts may charge a monthly fee regardless of your balance or activity. Be sure to read the fine print and compare fees across different banks before making a decision.

Minimum balance requirements

Minimum balance requirements can also affect the cost of your business checking account. Choosing an account with a low minimum balance can help you avoid fees and save money over time.

Consider your cash flow and projected account activity when choosing a business checking account. If you anticipate a fluctuating balance, it may be better to choose an account with a lower minimum balance requirement.

Transaction limits and fees

Transaction limits and fees can also vary between business checking accounts. If you expect to have a high number of transactions each month, be sure to choose an account that offers unlimited transactions or has a high transaction limit.

For example, some banks offer a business checking account with unlimited transactions and no fees for incoming wires or ACH transfers. This can be a great option for realtors who frequently receive payments from clients. On the other hand, other banks may charge a fee for each transaction over a certain limit. Be sure to compare transaction fees and limits across different banks to find the best option for your business.

Overall, evaluating account fees and requirements is an important step in choosing the best business checking account for realtors. By considering factors such as monthly maintenance fees, minimum balance requirements, and transaction limits and fees, you can find an account that meets your needs and helps you save money over time.

Assessing Additional Perks and Services

When it comes to selecting a business checking account, realtors might want to look beyond the basic features like fees and transaction limits. It’s also important to consider additional perks and services that can make managing your finances easier and more efficient.

Mobile banking and deposit capabilities

One of the most important features to look for in a business checking account is mobile banking and deposit capabilities. With mobile banking, realtors can access their funds quickly and easily from anywhere in the world. This can be especially useful for realtors who are constantly on the go meeting with clients and showing properties.

In addition to mobile banking, many business checking accounts also offer remote deposit capabilities. This means that realtors can deposit checks from their mobile devices, without having to visit a physical bank location. This can save time and reduce the risk of lost or stolen checks.

Integration with accounting software

Another important feature to consider when selecting a business checking account is integration with your current accounting software. By choosing a checking account that integrates seamlessly with your accounting software, you can save time and reduce errors in your financial management.

With integration, you can automatically import your bank transactions into your accounting software, eliminating the need for manual data entry. This can help you stay on top of your finances and make better-informed business decisions.

When selecting a business checking account, realtors should consider a range of factors beyond the basic features. By looking for a checking account with mobile banking and deposit capabilities, integration with accounting software, and access to business credit and loans, realtors can streamline their financial management and position themselves for long-term success.

Conclusion

In summary, choosing the best business checking account for your real estate business is essential for managing your finances efficiently, increasing productivity, and growing your business. By considering key factors like transaction fees, minimum balance requirements, and additional perks and services, you can make an informed decision and select a business checking account that meets your unique needs as a realtor.