some relationships can't be broken.... I think you need to do what real estate agents do to get off the blocks.... network.... find your own business with online marketing.... if you do a job well, you'll get referrals just as real estate agents do....you'll eventually cross paths with a heavy hitter, and you'll have a great track record to close that agent....

Robert,

I don't know your marketplace to give you sound advice on this.  We work with top producing agents, and they are always willing to open their doors to someone better.  A

use your base of current realtors to reccomend you. that is the strongest message you could give/get for a potential new agent

Effective networking and building a referral base are keys for success. Follow the blogs of Joe Petrowsky for some great ideas.

Not to be harsh, Robert Salotto ... but my suggestion is to stop being a snob.  Why not find some good quality agents (maybe even some rookies) to work with and help them become Top Producing agents.  You can help each other.   Look at it from both sides, not just what you want.  As Zig Ziglar used to say: "You can get everything you want in life if you help enough other people get what they want".  

In the end, results are all that really matters.

Be one of the sponsors for some Caravan open houses where you can do a brief talk on changes in the market, etc. Also call brokerages and ask if they have office meetings where you can give a short talk.

I sometimes add the lender that did a great job for the buyer on my listing, but otherwise all the calls and emails for new business go to trash.