You could help people get into the home of their dreams or move up to the next level

Real Estate Agent

How much money can you make?

What type of training will it take?

And what does the job actually entail?

Read on to find out whether this is the job for you

A real estate agent guides clients through the process of buying, selling, or renting residential or commercial properties. This includes locating and showing appropriate properties to their clients; advising them on price bidding, and helping them negotiate a contract; guiding sellers in selecting an appropriate asking price, and helping them present their property for sale; hosting open houses; and generally facilitating communication between all parties involved.

Real estate agents must also invest time in networking to find new clients and in publishing and reviewing real estate listings.

While people typically think of real estate agents as working with private residential properties, some agents work with commercial properties, helping corporate clients buy, sell, or rent properties to use for their business. Commercial realty requires more research on the part of the agent, as they work to locate properties that they can demonstrate will ultimately boost the client’s business.

What’s the difference between a real estate agent and a Realtor?

While both perform the same duties and are often used interchangeably, there is a difference between the two titles. A Realtor is a real estate agent who is a certified member of the National Association of Realtors, and is thus bound by its code of ethics and professional standards.

What kind of schooling do I need?

Real estate sales agents need to obtain state licensure, for which they need to complete around 75 hours of coursework and then take a licensing exam. Generally, a real estate agent who wishes to work in more than one state needs to obtain licensure in each state separately.

What’s the difference between a real estate agent and a Realtor?

While both perform the same duties and are often used interchangeably, there is a difference between the two titles. A Realtor is a real estate agent who is a certified member of the National Association of Realtors, and is thus bound by its code of ethics and professional standards.

What kind of schooling do I need?

Real estate sales agents need to obtain state licensure, for which they need to complete around 75 hours of coursework and then take a licensing exam. Generally, a real estate agent who wishes to work in more than one state needs to obtain licensure in each state separately.

Do I have the personality for it?

Good real estate agents have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, are good listeners, and also good salespeople and negotiators. They also need to be organized and good at juggling several balls simultaneously.

What can I expect to make?

Average annual income nationwide: $95,000

Since income is commission-based, it varies widely based on locale and the types of properties you deal with, in addition to how much you’re willing to hustle. According to experienced professionals, the field has a very high earning potential.