It’s frustrating when traditional business models don’t accommodate your financial needs. To create a counteroffer and shift the conversation in your favor, consider these steps to appeal to the commission based business model creatively and persuasively:

1. Reframe Your Role

Instead of being just another commission-based agent/ sales person, position yourself as a hybrid contributor—someone who brings both sales and marketing expertise. Highlight that this dual role has measurable benefits for the company.

2. Offer a Results-Oriented Base Salary

Propose a low base salary plus commission structure, emphasizing how this mitigates their risk while ensuring you can stay motivated and productive. For example:

• Base salary: Request a modest monthly amount to cover basic expenses.
• Commission: Retain the traditional percentage on sales or rentals.
  Frame it as an investment that will yield higher returns for them.

3. Introduce a Trial Period

Suggest a 3- or 6-month trial period where they can evaluate your performance and the value you bring with your marketing efforts. For example:

• Use social media campaigns, targeted ads, or content creation to drive leads.
• Show projections for how marketing can amplify property visibility and sales.

4. Highlight Marketing Metrics

If they’re skeptical, propose tying part of your base payment to key performance indicators (KPIs), such as:

• Leads generated through marketing efforts.
• Website traffic or social media engagement.
• Client feedback or referrals.

This will reassure them you’re focused on measurable outcomes.

5. Showcase Your Skills Strategically

Prepare a mini marketing plan tailored to their current challenges, such as:

• Revamping sales material listings.
• Building their social media presence.
• Creating virtual tours or better content for listings.

Show them how your contributions go beyond selling.

6. Partner on Commission Advancements

If they absolutely won’t agree to a salary, propose they advance commissions on materials you’re confident will sell, or cover a portion of your expenses upfront to ease your financial burden.

7. Offer a Non-Traditional Collaboration Model

If the company remains rigid, consider offering a freelance marketing consultant agreement instead of a sales role. This lets you work with multiple agencies or businesses while maintaining a steady income through marketing services.

Communicating Your Counteroffer

When presenting your idea:

1. Be professional and specific: Outline your value with evidence and projections.
2. Address their concerns proactively: Show how this is a win-win for both parties.
3. Focus on long-term gains: Emphasize the potential for higher sales and reputation boosts with your added skills.

If they say no to all your proposals, don’t get discouraged. You can handle the situation professionally and use it as an opportunity to reassess your options or negotiate further. Here’s how to approach it:

1. Ask for Feedback

Politely inquire about their reasoning for rejecting your proposals. Understanding their perspective might uncover opportunities for adjustment or a middle ground.

Example Response:
“Thank you for your feedback. I understand this structure may not align with your current business model. Could you share more about what aspects are challenging for implementation? Perhaps we can find another way to collaborate that works for both sides.”

2. Reassess Priorities

If their expectations leave you unable to sustain your role financially, it might be worth considering other opportunities. Working in an environment where you’re undervalued or overburdened can lead to burnout.

Example Decision Point:

• Would you be willing to accept a purely commission-based role for a limited time to build experience and network connections?
• Or would it be better to pivot to other roles in related fields, such as marketing or freelance services, where your skills are in demand?

3. Propose an Exit Option with Gratitude

If it’s clear that this isn’t the right fit, leave on good terms. Express gratitude for their time and keep the door open for future opportunities.

Example Response:
“Thank you for considering my proposals and for your time throughout this process. While I see great potential in working together, I understand that my expectations may not align with your current structure. I deeply respect your decision and hope we can connect in the future for opportunities that suit both of us. Wishing you continued success!”

4. Plan Your Next Steps

Use the experience as a stepping stone:

• Look for companies with more flexibility: Some agencies may offer hybrid or salaried roles.
• Freelance your skills: Consider offering your marketing expertise to real estate companies as a contractor.
• Upskill and diversify: Strengthen your network and explore areas such as real estate tech, property management, or other industries where your marketing and sales skills apply.