Home-Based Travel Agents VS. Referral Travel Agents

There is a big difference between the “home-based or independent travel agent” and the “referral travel agent”. Many host or referral agencies market programs where you can be an associate or independent agent. We feel you should know the “naked truths” when it comes down to deciding which direction to go. There is a place in this world for both as long as the interested travel agent is presented the information fairly and accurately by the marketing host or referral agency.

REFERRAL TRAVEL AGENT

Many referral agencies market at least two types of referral agent programs. One program is to offer commissions up to 60% based upon the referral agencies 10% base commission. You would also receive compensation for recruiting new agents. You would also receive some commissions from the referrals of the agents you have signed up. If this program appears to be a form of pyramid scheme, it is, in our opinion. There are many people who participate in these programs. If this makes sense to you - go for it. Just be careful the scheme won't be challenged by the legal authorities.

The other program markets the photo ID card issued to their agents promising great discounts and huge savings on all your personal travel through the use of this card. These referral agencies are known in the travel industry as “card mills”. The card displays the agents picture, name and agency along with the agency's IATAN number.

Many of the cards appear strikingly similar to the real, coveted IATAN photo ID card. Again, you are offered up to a 60% share of the agency's base 10% commission or a total 5% commission. The use of these “scam” cards are at your own risk. If a reservations or front desk person is attentive, they will call you on the authenticity of the ID card. Be aware of potential embarrassment every time you present this card for a discount or upgrade.

The following reasons, in our opinion, make sense to become a Referral Travel Agent:

1. You do a lot of personal or business travel and are not really interested in becoming a serious travel agent.
   
2. You are an affluent person and those potential discounts on hotels and air upgrades will certainly add up.
   
3. You wish to add a little additional earnings to your main job or retirement income.
   
4. You have many friends and family and would like to be paid for your efforts.
   
5. You are not sufficiently motivated and really don't want to establish a successful travel business.
   

HOME-BASED TRAVEL AGENT

These are the more serious and motivated people who wish to be part of the client's total vacation experience. Planning the vacation, booking the vacation and following through after the client's memorable trip makes it all a worthwhile experience for everyone. This independent agent works at his/her profession both on a part or full time basis with the same passion.

Home-Based Travel Agents generally use their own business name and have a local occupational license. They offer the same services as a store front travel agency but without the heavy overhead or employees.

Home-Based Travel Agents use the Host Agency for their marketing connections, back office and accounting support, and their accreditation numbers and memberships which give them access to the travel suppliers and booking portals. There is also a lot of “hand holding” with the newer agents. Agents associating with Host Agencies simply earn more commissions as opposed who go it alone.

The relationship between the Home-Based Travel Agent and the Host Agent is client to client. You are never obligated to just one Host Agency at a time but it would not be prudent to have more than one if you are new to the industry.

CORAL SAND'S AGENT PROGRAM

Coral Sands Travel, America's Host Agency,  only gives you the option to function as  a Home-Based Independent Travel Agent.

. We charge a fee of $295.00 and $15.00 for shipping materials or a total of $310.00. This also includes your spouse. There is an annual renewal fee of $150.00.

We do not issue our own photo ID cards. We will provide you with the support needed to obtain your own coveted IATAN and/or CLIA photo ID card when you qualify for them. These are the two major photo ID cards recognized around the world for discount travel and “fam” trips.

Coral Sands Travel is  a Host Agency for Home-Based Independent Travel Agents. We are a “pure” Host Agency because unlike most Host Agencies, we do not handle any inside sales. All leads and consumer sales from our website are assigned to our Independent Agents.