When you think about real estate agents, several stereotypes may come to mind like… it’s so easy and they make tons of money. We’re here to tell you that contrary to popular belief, being a real estate agent isn’t for everyone. It takes patience, time, and hard work to be successful in the real estate field.
If you’ve considered becoming a real estate agent, keep reading as we outline the top five things to know before starting your journey.
1. You’ll Need A Real Estate License
The first step on your journey to become a real estate agent is passing the licensing exam. Be sure to research your state’s licensing requirements first, which you can find on the Arello website here. Every state will require you to take a pre-licensing course before taking your license exam, but hours can vary by state. Your pre-licensing course, license exam, and activating your license will be an investment, so make sure you have enough money set to the side.
2. Continuing Education Requirements Are Different For Each State
Your real estate education doesn’t end with passing your license exam, you’ll have continuing education requirements in order to keep your license active. You can find your state’s continuing education requirements and other important information by visiting The National Association of Realtors page. It outlines every state’s real estate commission’s website so you can easily find the information you need. Keep in mind that these courses and renewing your real estate license isn’t free, the cost will vary by state.
3. Set Yourself Up For Success: Build Your Savings
It may be a few months between passing your real estate license exam and selling your first house. If you pad your savings account with a few months worth of expenses, you should be covered solely to focus on your real estate business. Keep in mind that you may have other business expenses when starting out such as marketing costs, updated headshots, or other fees.
4. Real Estate Isn’t A 9 To 5 Job
Being a real estate agent isn’t your typical 9 to 5 job. You won’t be able to leave your work at the office. As a real estate agent, you’re always on call to help your clients. Whether they need questions answered, offers made, or paperwork submitted, they’ll expect you to be there for them.
However, being a real estate agent means you make your own schedule. You can be as flexible as you want or as busy as you want! This is what is so appealing about being a real estate agent for so many. No matter if you’re single or married with three kids, a career in real estate will give you freedom over your time. With freedom comes responsibility, so you will need to be self-motivated and able to manage your time well.
5. The Key To Being Successful Is Getting Your Clients To Trust You
The most important part of any business is the clients. This is even more true when it comes to being a real estate agent. As a new real estate agent, you won’t have any credibility since you haven’t sold any houses yet. People are more likely to go with a popular, well-known real estate agent over someone who is just starting in the industry.
It’s important to reach out to your friends and family to get the word out as you’re beginning your real estate journey. The people who know and trust you will be the ones who can vouch for you and your character. As you start to build your client base, the more and more it will grow through referrals and glowing reviews. Continue to be patient, market yourself, and do your best for your clients and you will be successful.
Any Questions For Us Or Looking To Start Your Real Estate Career?
We’d love to talk to you! Please give us a call at (574) 551-0316 or fill out the form on our contact page to get in touch with our team.