SWMLS Provides Steps for a Smoother Transition

Changing brokerages happens at two separate levels, and the process can feel confusing because each step depends on the one before it. Understanding how these pieces fit together—especially behind the scenes—will help you time your transfer correctly and avoid unnecessary delays or frustration.

Brokerage transfers occur at:

  • The Commission Level
  • The Association Level

These two steps are not interchangeable. Your transfer must be fully completed at the Commission level first before it can be finalized at the Association level.

Step One: The Commission Level

The Commission-level transfer is the foundation of the entire process. Until this step is complete, no association or MLS changes can move forward. In New Mexico, the New Mexico Real Estate Commission oversees this portion of the transfer. They handle the official change of your employing broker and license records.

The Commission provides a helpful FAQ page that outlines their requirements, timelines, and common questions. Reviewing this information early can save you time and help you avoid missteps later in the process.

You can find the Commission’s FAQs here.

The Rules and Codes referenced are established by the New Mexico Real Estate Commission and can be found on their official website. This page includes the governing statutes, administrative rules, and related guidance that apply to licensees in New Mexico.


State rules are very clear on timing. Under New Mexico Administrative Code Rule 16.61.8.8, the Qualifying Broker has 48 hours to return an Associate Broker’s license to the Real Estate Commission once the Associate Broker requests it. This helps prevent unnecessary delays during a brokerage transfer. 

New Mexico’s real estate license laws are set out in Chapter 61, Article 29 of the New Mexico Statutes Annotated. This section defines how our profession is regulated, including license fees. If you prefer something more visual, the Real Estate Commission also provides a simple fee chart on their website, which we highly recommend reviewing before starting your transfer.

NMSA §61-29 can be found here.

And the chart can be found here. 

Commission Transfer

To begin transferring your license, you must complete the Transfer Application online from your RLD Portal. You can log in here.

  1. Click on the dropdown arrow to the right of the ‘Applications’ tab and select ‘Apply for a License’
  2. Then click on ‘Apply for a License’ here, too:
  3. All the Boards that RLD governs will appear in alphabetical order. You can either enter ‘Real Estate’ in the search box or use the arrow to navigate to NMREC (currently on page 4).
  4. Once you locate New Mexico Real Estate Commission, click ‘Select’.
  5. You will be prompted to select the type of license you wish to apply for – select ‘Transfer Application’ at the bottom of the page
  6. As you move through the application, you’ll upload your E&O insurance and submit payment. Just keep in mind—the Commission can’t complete your transfer until they’ve received both your application and your wall license from your Qualifying Broker. Your broker will get an email once the wall license is received, and you’ll get confirmation of your application.

Check Status

You can check on the status of your transfer application from your RLD portal:

Step Two: The Association Level

Now that you’ve submitted your License Transfer Application at the Commission level, you will need to transfer your license at the Association level via the Member Change Form.

  1. Go to the GAAR Website at  gaar.com, please hover your mouse over ‘Members’ and click on ‘Forms’


    Our forms are organized into two categories: GAAR forms and SWMLS forms. To update your GAAR and SWMLS profiles during a brokerage transfer, either you or your Qualifying Broker (QB) must submit a Member Change Form (found in the GAAR column) to Member Services.


    There are two versions of this GAAR Member Change Form available:
    • Online Form (QB only):
    If your QB is completing the form, they should use the online version, as it requires an electronic signature. This version is automatically routed directly to Member Services.

    • PDF Form (Associate Broker):
    If you are completing the form, use the PDF version, obtain your QB’s signature (electronic or handwritten), and email the completed form to membership@gaar.com.


    Pro Tip: Whichever option you choose, this is also an excellent time to call the Membership Department and provide payment information for your transfer. Doing so can help expedite processing and prevent delays.

    Ideally, we ask that two (2) Member Change Forms be submitted as part of your brokerage transfer:
    • One from your former Qualifying Broker (QB), removing you from their office, and
    • One from your new Qualifying Broker, adding you to their office

    Submitting both forms helps ensure your records are updated accurately and minimizes delays during the transition.

    Even if your QualifyingBroker (QB) is submitting the online version of the Member Change Form, it’s important to carefully review the fine print. This section addresses critical items such as your IDX feed and listings, which can be affected during a brokerage transfer.
     
  2. Notify SWMLS
    If you currently have Active, Pending, or Withdrawn listings, the Designated Broker for your previous brokerage must email support@swmls.com to notify Southwest MLS which listings will:
    • Be transferred to your new brokerage, and
    • Be retained and reassigned within the former brokerage

    Without this written direction, listing transfers may be delayed.
     
  3. Pay Transfer Fees
    Please note that GAAR  cannot update your member profile until your license transfer is fully completed at the Commission level.

    Once Member Services processes your Member Change Form, the following transfer fees will be assessed to your member portal:
    • $25 MLS transfer fee
    • $48 NMAR transfer fee (New Mexico Association of REALTORS®)

    After both fees are paid, your transfer at the Association level will be complete, and your listings can officially be transferred.

Changing brokerages is a significant professional step, and we know it can feel complex. GAAR and SWMLS are committed to supporting you through every stage of the process. If you have questions, need clarification, or run into an unexpected snag, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always happy to assist and help ensure your transition is as smooth as possible.

Welcome to your next chapter—we’re glad to be part of it.