According to a National Association of Realtors survey, more than 70% of realtors are very certain they will stay active in the real estate profession for the next two years. With this high level of satisfaction, the attraction of becoming a real estate agent is clear.
Becoming a real estate agent doesn’t happen overnight. You can take several steps to make the process go more smoothly.
Learn five things you should know before you start training to become a real estate professional.
Real Estate Agents Need a State License
The requirements to become a real estate agent vary by state. In most states, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.
You’ll need to take an accredited pre-licensing course before you take the exam. The course covers topics like real estate principles, contracts, and finance. Each state requires a different number of hours of real estate license training.
You can take the real estate licensing exam after you complete your required course hours. The exam has a section on general real estate principles and practices as well as a state-specific section. After you pass both parts of the exam, you can apply for your real estate license.
Financial Planning Is Essential
Real estate agents work on commission. You should plan on several months without income when you start as an agent. Based on industry averages, you’ll want at least six months of savings.
The majority of real estate agents are independent contractors. You’ll need to set money aside from your commissions to pay your taxes. You’ll also need money for health insurance and retirement savings.
It’s Never Too Early to Start Building and Organizing Your Network
You should start building your network of contacts as soon as possible. These relationships are what will get your real estate business started. Everyone from your hair stylist to your neighbor could be a potential client.
Keeping these contacts organized is also important. You want to be able to track interactions, preferences, and other information to help you build an outreach strategy.
Real Estate Is a Full-Time Job
Many people are interested in becoming a real estate agent because of the flexibility it can provide. However, to be successful you need hard work, discipline, and consistency. You should be prepared to work evenings and weekends to accommodate your clients’ schedules.
If you aren’t working full-time hours, you won’t make full-time money.
The Right Marketing Will Help You Stand Out
Your real estate marketing strategy will help you stand out from the competition. Develop your own personal brand. Your website and social media are key components of your brand as an agent.
You’ll need a variety of real estate marketing materials. Signage is one of the most important categories. You’ll need like:
- For sale signs
- Open house signs
- Directional
Custom real estate signs are essential for helping potential buyers find your properties. They also help you get noticed in the community. Keeping your signage on brand helps build name recognition and sets you apart from other real estate agents.
You can give your clients a unique experience and boost your real estate marketing with distinctive key shaped signs celebrating a home purchase. A family photo holding the symbolic key to their new home is a keepsake your clients will treasure. These photos are perfect for sharing on social media and in your marketing publications.
Take the First Step Toward Becoming a Real Estate Agent
Becoming a real estate agent is an exciting and rewarding process. If you keep these five things in mind, you’ll be well on your way.
When you’re ready for high-quality real estate marketing materials, check out Real Estate Store. Our signs are personalized and made by hand. We’ll help you make a lasting impression on your clients.
Browse the extensive selection of signage at Real Estate Store and start planning your real estate marketing strategy today.