HOW TO BECOME A REAL ESTATE AGENT: STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE.

Are you planning to become a real estate agent?

This blog post is all about how to become a real estate agent.

Are you ready to jumpstart your career and start earning a living as a real estate agent? Becoming a real estate agent can be an enriching journey, with the responsibility of helping people make some of their most significant financial purchases. It's vital for anyone considering this career path to understand what is required in terms of training, qualifications, and certifications. To help guide interested parties on the road to becoming successful real estate agents, here I’ll provide an invaluable step-by-step guide outlining all the requirements from start to finish.

Why Become a Real Estate Agent?

Before getting into the details of becoming a real estate agent, it’s essential to pause and consider why you want to pursue this career. For some, it’s the potential of unlimited earnings — becoming a real estate agent can be highly lucrative as your commission is directly related to the number of transactions you close. Plus, there’s the freedom of being your boss and setting your schedule. However, other aspects to consider include dealing with potential conflicts between buyers and sellers, late nights catering to clients’ needs, and long hours without a guaranteed paycheck. Knowing why you want to become an agent is the first step in this journey.

Steps to Become a Real Estate Agent

If you want to become a real estate agent, you’re looking at an upfront investment of money and time, which vary depending on where you get your license. Though the specific requirements differ by state, here's a general rundown of how to become a real estate agent.

1. Research Your State’s Requirements.

The requirements differ from state to state.

• Application process and fees
• Age
• Criminal background check and fingerprinting
• The education requirements, such as a high school diploma or GED, are needed.
• Pre-licensing courses and post-licensing requirements
• Exams
• Continuing education
• The process to obtain a higher level of licensing

Most states require you to have a high school diploma or equivalent and be at least 18 years old to become a real estate agent. Most states also require that real estate agents pass an exam; some may also require additional schooling (such as college courses) or Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

2. Pre-Licensing Course.

To obtain a real estate license, it is necessary to complete a pre-licensing course from an accredited online or in-person real estate licensing school. This course costs roughly $350 regardless of location and must be completed before taking the real estate license exam.

3. Exam Preparation.

Make sure you are well-prepared for your state’s licensing exam by using the materials and resources provided by the school where you took your real estate classes. You must complete an accredited real estate course from a certified provider and pass the final exam with at least 70% accuracy.

3. Join the National Association of Realtors.

The National Association of Realtors is a trade association with 1.5 million members working in various residential and commercial real estate industries. While membership costs around $185 and is optional, being a realtor can enhance your credibility as a real estate agent. Realtors also have access to various benefits.

• Real estate market data, research, and statistics
• Access to Realtors Property Resource (RPR)
• Business tools
• Educational opportunities

The Realtors Property Resource (RPR) is an extensive online real estate database in the U.S. that realtors can access. It is created from public records and assessment information and contains data on zoning, permits, mortgage and lien, schools, and foreclosures.

4. Start Your Career.

With your license and education, it’s time to find a brokerage and establish yourself in the industry! Joining a larger company benefits new agents as they often have access to more resources (such as marketing materials and industry contacts). Experience is the most valuable thing for a real estate agent, so start working hard immediately.

5. Develop Your Business and Marketing Plan.

Successful agents have a plan for their business. It should include your goals, strategies for success, and projected income levels is a great place to start. Additionally, many agents find it helpful to attend trade conventions and seminars, read real estate magazines, or join online forums to stay on top of the latest developments in the industry.

Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube are great ways to market yourself. Create a professional profile for yourself and share your listings with potential clients. This will help build your brand and establish you as your area's go-to real estate agent. Find additional tips and tricks for becoming a successful real estate agent here.

Skills that help you succeed as a real estate agent:

1. People-person: A real estate agent should be an excellent communicator and negotiator. Connecting with people promptly will increase the chances of reaching mutually beneficial deals.
2. Self-motivated: A successful real estate agent is goal-oriented and motivated by success, not money or commissions alone. It's important to show initiative and be driven by results.
3. Ability to learn: Real estate is a constantly changing landscape, so keeping up with trends, legal requirements, and industry standards is vital in staying competitive and successful.
4. Organization: The real estate world can quickly get messy without proper organization. A good agent effectively manages his/her time, clients, paperwork, and resources.
5. Discipline: There will be days when it’s challenging to get motivated and stay focused on the goal. Successful agents know how to keep their emotions in check and remain professional.

Advantages of a real estate agent career: 

• You can earn a significant income, with much of it as commissions.
• You’ll be able to set your hours and work independently.
• You’ll learn about local neighborhoods and market trends that can assist you in navigating current clients and prospects.
• You can specialize in certain real estate transactions, such as commercial and residential.
• You’ll have the opportunity to network with people from all walks of life.

Disadvantages of a real estate agent career: 

• There is no guarantee that you will make money — commissions are not guaranteed until deals close.
• You may need to invest in marketing materials to help you secure clients.
• You may have to work long hours, including nights and weekends, to accommodate your client’s needs.
• If not done correctly, there are potential legal and financial risks that come with the job done correctly.

Q&A

What are the requirements in the Code of Ethics of the National Association of Realtors?

The National Association of Realtors Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice outlines 17 standards that all members must abide by when engaging in real estate activities. These standards include protecting the public interest, advocating for fair housing rights, ethically handling client funds, and informing clients about all their transactions. Additionally, members are expected to compete fairly and avoid conflicts of interest.

All members must also continue to develop their skills and knowledge of the real estate industry. They must keep abreast of current laws and regulations and actively participate in continuing education courses. Realtors must also comply with all applicable laws and regulations, including those governing the use of technology in their business.

As a new real estate agent, what are some practical ways to promote myself?

As a new real estate agent, there are numerous ways to promote yourself. Some practical methods include networking with other agents and industry professionals, leveraging social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, creating an online presence through blogging or videos, attending trade shows and conferences, advertising in local newspapers and magazines, and utilizing email marketing campaigns. Additionally, requesting referrals from past clients and participating in local events can help generate leads.

The Bottom Line.

The career of a real estate agent can be both exciting and financially rewarding for those who work hard and stay organized. Anyone can pursue this career, regardless of age or gender, with minimal requirements for education and industry experience. It's an excellent choice for busy moms and individuals willing to work long hours. To succeed in this career, one must have knowledge of the local market, be an effective negotiator, and possess excellent communication skills. Proper education, training, and marketing materials are also helpful for achieving success as a real estate agent. With these tools, becoming a successful real estate agent is within reach!