Approaching real estate as a career? You’ve probably watched hours of reality TV, where real estate is portrayed in a glamorous way and agents make millions of dollars in deals. And you want to get there wearing fancy suits and—let’s be real—not smiling every time a house opens. It takes more than hard work, dedication, and smarts to get into real estate.
Based on the concept of building a house, we’re not just putting the roof on and calling it a day. You need a good foundation, the right equipment, and a plan to help you get there. That’s what this guide will give you. Whether you’re completely new to the field or looking to make a career change, we’ll walk you through the entire process from start to finish. It’s time to unlock that door to your future. Let’s find out!
What Does a Real Estate Agent Actually Do?
When you think of a real estate agent, you probably envision someone showing homes to eager buyers or staging properties for sale. But there is so much more to the job. Real estate agents are matchmakers, basically: They match buyers with sellers and help each party through the thicket of property transactions.
They wear many hats-from negotiating deals to handling paperwork; part salesperson, part consultant, and part problem solver. They are also there for emotional support during one of the biggest decisions a person will ever make. Sound like a lot? It is. But for the right person, it’s also incredibly rewarding.
Research Your State’s Requirements
Thing is, licensing is not cut and dry in real estate. Every state has its own rules and regulations. For example, in California, you have to take 135 hours of prelicensing education, and in New York, you must have 75 hours.
But first, check with your state’s real estate commission for actual requirements in terms of education, examination procedure, and all other related processes, including even background checks or fingerprinting. Believe me, you would not want to miss that. It just would be like trying to bake a cake without the recipe-messy and frustrating.
Take a Prelicensing Course
Once you know what those requirements are in your state, it is time to enroll in a prelicensing course-everything from property law to ethics and contracts. Think of it as Real Estate 101.
But not all courses are created equal. Some are online, while others are in-person. Some are self-paced, while others have strict schedules. Choose one that fits your learning style and schedule. And don’t just go for the cheapest option—this is your career we’re talking about. Invest in quality education.
Pass the Real Estate Licensing Exam
Ah, the dreaded exam. It’s the gatekeeper to your real estate career, and it’s not exactly a walk in the park. Most licensing exams are divided into two parts: one national portion and one state-specific portion.
To prepare, study hard through course materials and practice tests in abundance. And here is a pro tip: do not try to cram everything in on the night before. Study a little bit over several weeks. It’s kind of like a marathon-you wouldn’t just start off and run 26 miles without training for it.
Activate Your Real Estate License
Awesome, you passed the exam! Just remember, you are not done yet. But get your license activated now. Actuation means you’ll have to submit a written application, part with some Ben Franklins, and possibly finish other paperwork.
Now you have the license, and you are officially an estate agent. Let me remind you, this is just the beginning. Your license is, so to say, a key. It opens doors, but it’s up to you whether you go through that door and make the most of the opportunities lying ahead.
Join a Real Estate Brokerage
As a newly licensed agent, you can’t just up and start working on your own; you must link up with a real estate brokerage. You could think of a brokerage as your home base: it’s where you get training, support, and resources.
Things to watch out for in a brokerage include commission splits, training programs, and company culture. Do not be afraid to interview more than one brokerage until you find the right fit; this is where your career will be.
Consider Becoming a Realtor
You may have heard the terms “real estate agent” and “Realtor” being used synonymously, but they’re not interchangeable. A Realtor is a licensed agent who’s also a member of the National Association of Realtors.
Why join? It will first of all provide you with unique resources, networking opportunities, and a Code of Ethics to give you an edge over competitors. More than that, you get to use the coveted Realtor® designation, which really can boost their credibility with clients.
Build Your Brand and Network
Your good name is everything in real estate. Of course, it pays dividends to invest some quality time in the development of your personal brand. This begins with building a professional website and/or profiles on other social media. Make it full of content value for the people-in the form of insights into the marketplace, buying your first home, or any tips out there that take you from an average agency into being considered an authoritative say-so.
Equally important is networking: attend industry events, join local business groups, and connect with other professionals in your area. After all, real estate is a people business. The more relationships you build, the more opportunities you have.
Overview
The real estate agent journey is comprised of learning, challenges, and opportunities. Every step you make, right from doing research into the requirements of your state to taking the licensing examination to joining a brokerage, is a step closer to where you would want to go.
This profession is not just about selling properties; it’s about building relations, solving problems, and allowing people’s dreams to come true. Although it all may seem rather overwhelming, it is well worth the payoffs that await you in the form of flexibility, financial potentials, and personal fulfillment.
Just remain dedicated, continue to learn, and never be ashamed to lean upon mentors and resources throughout. With this in mind, only dedication will ultimately unlock your career path into successful and rewarding real estate.
