Real estate is an incredible career for anyone who wants to change their career in a short time. It’s an excellent opportunity for people who have a passion for properties and houses.
Aside from being a demanding job, working as a real estate agent also has a rewarding side. There are also other aspects of the industry that people should consider when making a career change.
Aside from houses, you can also work in various other types of real estate, such as rentals, condos, and commercial real estate. Some people also earn extra money by working as property managers.
Why you Should Become a Real Estate Agent
Some people also earn their real estate licenses to become house flippers or real estate speculators. There are several ways to make money in real estate. However, it can be challenging to balance work and family life. Most home showings happen on weekends and evenings, making it an appealing second job for parents. However, it can be hard to balance this with childcare.
You are about to become your own boss, which can be a big step for many people. As a real estate agent, you’re mainly responsible for finding and securing clients.
If you’re ready to start enjoying the freedom and challenges of being an agent, this is your career. It rewards enthusiasm and commitment. You have to start by obtaining a real estate license. You can take the 75-hour real estate course online or in person.
Difference between Online Courses and In-Person
Taking in-person courses to earn a real estate license usually takes about 20 sessions. These sessions are generally 3.5 to 4 hours long and can be completed in weeks. The average completion time for in-person courses is about eight weeks. This is because most schools do not offer such rapid succession classes. In-person courses allow students to interact with the instructor and other students. However, they are usually more expensive due to the time needed and the commuting costs.
The cost of in-person courses is typically higher than those offered through online classes. They require a higher textbook. They also need more time and money.
Online courses are also more affordable and faster to complete. They allow students to earn their real estate license in a short time and money.
For instance, if you are looking to earn a 75-hour real estate license in any part of the country, you can easily do so through an online course. You can quickly complete the course at your own pace, and if you want to fit it around your schedule, you can usually do so. Online courses are also designed to ensure that the students understand the material. They also require students to complete a quiz once they sign up. Aside from the textbook, it provides a free PDF that can be used as a reference.
After completing the course, you will need to take an in-person proctored exam. You will then receive a certificate of completion.
Complete your pre-licensing coursework
Before you take the exam in your state, you’ll need to complete some form of pre-licensing training. This varies according to the type and amount of coursework you need to complete.
Select a broker
Depending on your state, your real estate broker may be required to sponsor you to take the exam. This will be a critical step in your real estate career.
Your real estate broker can influence many things, such as how much you earn, the type of resources available to you, and even the direction of your career.
Join professional real estate organizations
After securing your real estate license, you’ll want to become a member of various local and state Multiple Listing Services (MLS). As a member of an organization, you’ll be able to access valuable resources and networking opportunities. These include national conferences and seminars.
Launch your real estate career
Once all of your systems are in place, let everyone know that you’re a real estate agent. Soon, you’ll start interacting with potential clients and selling your home. Having a more experienced agent check in with you regularly will help ensure that you’re doing the best job possible for your clients.
The Bottom Line
Getting a real estate license can help you secure a rewarding job in the industry. But, to be successful, you should keep in mind that this profession can be very flexible.
Most real estate agents treat their profession as a full-time job. They are available to their clients all week long.