There are numerous reasons why you might be considering a career in real estate, particularly if you’ve something of a passion for property or for uncovering the hidden gems that might be lurking on the market. Indeed, real estate is the perfect career for passionate individuals; the kind of role that those seeking out contented clients and job satisfaction will relish. So, how do you know if such a career is the right one for you?
How will I know if real estate is the career for me?
It’s obviously important to fully understand the role of a real estate agent or realtor to decide whether you’re suited to such a career. You wouldn’t wander into any old job without an idea or expectation, would you? As you’d expect, real estate agents manage the buying and selling of homes, helping clients to find their dream properties or market their existing abode. Real estate involves monitoring the housing market, regionally and nationally, and researching listings to gain an insight into housing trends – as well as managing clients’ needs, marketing properties, and organizing viewings.
There’s no such thing as a typical day in the real estate market; successful entrepreneur and real estate investor Jan Berkowitz will tell you that! With more than 15 years’ experience, he has excelled in a market that has seen much fluctuation, proving that it’s perfectly possible to succeed in real estate if you have the passion and drive to do so.
A role in real estate suits those who communicate easily and with confidence, and possess the ability to inspire trust and remain calm in a crisis. Real estate agents can provide positive and objective feedback and preferably have an eye for detail and some creative flair. They offer that certain, special something to those seeking their forever homes, and can often find the best outcomes out of bad situations. If you’re not deterred yet, read on.
The pros and cons of a real estate career that you’ll want to consider
It’s important to understand a few of the pros and cons of a career in real estate before deciding that it’s for you. Sure, you may work well under pressure and enjoy the challenges of keeping multiple clients happy, but how successful are you likely to be at organizing your scheduling and managing your finances?
Pro: Starting your own business could cost very little
If you’re determined to become your own boss then the prospect of real estate is probably one that appeals. A real estate license can cost as little as $200-$300, and take between two to three months to complete. In that time, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to learn, and work while you study.
Con: In real estate, there are no guarantees
As with all self-starting opportunities, there’s no assured paycheck when you’re a real estate agent; what you earn is up to you, and the hard work you’re willing and able to do. Real estate agents are offered very little guidance from external agencies, and typically don’t receive the benefits that employees enjoy.
Pro: You’ll enjoy the freedom of becoming your own boss
Who wouldn’t want to become their own boss if they could guarantee success? Starting your own business will afford you freedom and flexibility, ensuring you’re able to work the hours and in the locations that suit you. What’s more, there’s no cap on what you’ll be able to earn, and you’ll be able to follow your personal vision for your business.
Con: You will shoulder every responsibility
If you are to succeed in business, you must possess excellent organizational skills and have an ability to take control of situations. Working as your own boss, you’ll be responsible for every aspect of your business. Sure, you’ll have no one to answer to, but there will also be nobody to make important decisions for you.
Pro: People are always looking for property
If you have the confidence and drive to succeed, a career in real estate can be a prosperous one, offering a wealth of opportunities to expand and increase your income. Even when the market is experiencing a downturn it will always be there; people will always be in need of properties, and on the search for bigger and better things.
Con: The market is in a constant state of flux
When it comes to real estate very little is guaranteed; a property that might have fetched a particular price just a couple of months ago may now be worth less than that. Unfortunately, that’s the way real estate works, and you must be prepared to cope with dissatisfied clients, daily stress, and periods of confusion and doubt.
So, where should I turn now?
If you’ve absorbed the details in this article and decided that you’re destined for a career in real estate, then it’s time to get to work; there’s no time like the present, after all. One of the advantages of such a career move is that any courses and licensing exams can be undertaken while you’re employed elsewhere, meaning you’ve very little to lose if you realize that real estate is no longer the right pathway for you. Take a little time to research the pre-licensing courses being run online, or near you, and find a brokerage that you’ll be able to work with once you’ve graduated. Finally, think about gaining work experience, or applying for an internship. While you’ll be running your own business as a real estate agent, it will certainly help to gain an insight into the market and learn a little from those who are already living your dream. No sales experience is necessary; just a drive to succeed, and a passion for what you do.
We would like to wish you every success with your new career, whatever you choose to do. Life’s too short to waste on a job you can’t embrace and enjoy.
