If you’re seriously considering a career change, you aren’t the only one. A real estate agent is one of the most popular career options out there at the moment, especially with the concept of the market the way it is. If you’re interested in making that your reality, then seriously consider taking a look at the basics that you will need to know below!
Top tips for starting a successful career in real estate
Some not-so-secret secrets are out there for the taking when it comes to help put your best foot forward in a career as a real estate agent. Here are some top ones to guide you down the right path!
- Join the National Association of Realtors (NAR): there is a difference between being a real estate agent and a Realtor. If you want to get that extra air of professionalism when you hook clients with that extra little detail amongst the competition, this distinction can often be the difference!
- Have a business plan ready to go: The instant you set yourself up with a broker, you don’t immediately get clients. Unfortunately, you still have to ensure you get out there and let people know you’re open for business as a professional. This means you will want to consider a business plan idea seriously! This should be a list of achievable goals and plans for getting there. It’ll give you a sense of direction!
- Practice interviews and showings with friends and family: No question hooking a customer is going to be challenging and a lot of nerves go along with that! With friends and family, do showings and interviews to ensure you’re ready to handle the real thing when the moment comes. Confidence will be 9/10ths of it, and experience is the best way to do that! You can add to this by asking your friends and family to impersonate different versions and be difficult, rude, shy, and uncertain. Again, experience is key!
- Be shameless about selling yourself: There’s nothing wrong with using your personal connections to get your first clients! That’s how many people get started anyway, even if they won’t admit it. You’ll want to make sure you sell yourself and your skills shamelessly. Most will admire your pluck and will take you up on your offer! The main detail here is that everyone else does it and it isn’t shady! Just pick the right people, as this will set you up on a career path.
- Stay informed about the current real estate market and trends: This can be done by reading industry publications, attending seminars and workshops, and networking with other real estate professionals. It’s also important to stay up to date with any changes in laws and regulations that may affect your business.
- Build a strong online presence: This includes creating a professional website, utilizing social media platforms, and making sure you are easily found on search engines. In today’s digital age, many potential clients begin their search for a real estate agent online, so it’s crucial to have a strong online presence to attract those clients.
- Have a strong work ethic and a willingness to go the extra mile for your clients: As a real estate agent, you will often be working with clients who are buying or selling their most valuable asset, so it’s important to be reliable, honest, and trustworthy. Building a reputation as a hardworking and dedicated agent will go a long way in attracting new clients and building a successful career in real estate.
On top of these tips, you’ll also want to take a moment and ensure that you always go above and beyond for your customers whenever possible. Remember, they’ve got plenty of options to choose from and you want to ensure you win them over. Going the extra mile even if you don’t “have” to, really sticks in their mind — in a good way!
How much does it start to start your career in real estate?
Of course, money is always going to be a factor. Real estate comes with some start-up costs, and it’s something to keep in mind if times are tight and you need to watch every penny. Some of the nonnegotiable expenses are as follows:
- Training and classes: $300+
- Exams and licensing fees: $300+
- Broker fees: $20-$500 per month
- Membership dues: $200+ per year
That’s a lot of numbers, right? Unfortunately, any business adventure will cost you a bit of money. The thing is, you don’t need to shoulder all of the cost if you know where to look for some savings! For example, there are always diverse and “sweetheart” 360 Training Deals that will help you keep a little cash and still get the same quality training you need for your new sparkly career in real estate. So, keep an eye on the new listings here for discounts, and make sure you are ready to jump on a deal when it comes up!
There is so much possibility waiting for you in this brand new career path, and when you get started with the right support and education, it’ll be easy and fulfilling to make it work! If you’re ready to enjoy a serious upgrade in your life, a new career in real estate may just be what you need!
