6 Ways to Make Money with a Real Estate License

A real estate license creates money-making opportunities for you. 

Of course, many people get into real estate to broker deals between buyers and sellers and gain a commission. 

But, there are other powerful ways to make money with a real estate license.

Here are 6 ways you can make money with a license that we will talk about in this article:

• Become a referral agent
• Create a downline
• Invest in real estate
• Represent yourself
• Become a broker
• Leverage your credentials 

Note: In August 17 2024, the National Association of REALTORS® settlement removed buyer‑agent compensation from MLS displays, so buyers now negotiate that fee directly.

So, let’s look deeper into each idea to see how you can start making money. Let’s jump in.

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#1. Become a Referral Agent

What exactly is a referral agent? How do agents make money if they aren’t involved in the transaction?

Referral agents earn money by sending their clients to another agent they know and trust. The receiving agent handles the deal, and when it closes the referral agent is paid a 20 – 35 % share of that agent’s commission. For example, if the commission is $50,000 and your agreed fee is 25 %, you pocket $12,500.

Always sign a written referral agreement before introducing the client—this is required by state law and by the new buyer‑representation rules introduced after the August 2024 NAR settlement.

Why become a referral agent? Suppose you work with professional athletes. When one of your contacts needs a home, you can refer them to a specialist, ensure they are in good hands, and be compensated for the introduction. It’s a win‑win.

#2. Create a Downline

Success starts with joining a brokerage you genuinely enjoy—one that offers support, solid training, and a fair commission split. Once you’re enthusiastic about where you work, recruiting others becomes natural.

Many traditional firms share a small slice of monthly profits with sponsoring agents. Cloud brokerages such as eXp Realty go further, sharing 1 – 3.5 % of the company dollar on each qualifying deal with the agent who sponsored the producer, paid monthly and before office expenses.

The larger your downline, the greater your chance of earning passive income each time those agents close deals.

Note: As of January 2025, the FTC’s proposed Earnings Claim Rule requires you to provide recruits with a written disclosure of average income before they join

#3. Invest in Real Estate

Many real estate agents become investors. 

With the U.S. median home price at $419,300 (Q4 2024) and 30‑year fixed mortgage rates hovering around 6.75 % in mid‑2025, cash‑flow math matters more than ever. Since MLSs no longer show buyer‑agent compensation, the real edge of holding a license is speed to new listings, not hidden pricing.

They flip houses or buy income property to make a profit. When you find the right listings it’s very easy to make a profit. 

Your advantage today is speed to fresh listings and local knowledge—MLSs no longer show buyer‑agent commissions, so inside pricing data is off the table after the 2024 settlement.

You get notified when properties first come on the market. You can easily identify which properties are a great deal and make an offer on them before others have a chance to. When it comes to investing, this is crucial.

#4. Represent Yourself

If you’re investing in real estate, represent yourself! 

Let’s talk about one of the advantages of representing yourself in the transaction. 

You can use the commission you received as the buyer’s agent as a down payment. This is a great tool to help you buy additional investment properties as well.

Conventional loans (Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac) let licensed buyers apply their earned commission toward both down payment and closing costs if it appears as a credit on the Closing Disclosure. FHA/VA generally restrict it to closing costs—always confirm lender overlays first.

Note: Some states require you to disclose in writing—and the seller to acknowledge—that you are both the buyer and the buyer’s agent. Check your agency‑disclosure form.

But you don’t have to be an investor to take advantage of representing yourself.

When you’re selling your home, you can save on the commission given to the listing agent.  If you’re buying a home you can pay yourself as the buyer’s agent. 

Representing yourself: it’s a great opportunity to save on costs and commission.

#5. Become a Broker

Fast Facts (2025)

‍• California: 2 yrs full‑time salesperson experience (or equivalent) within 5 yrs, plus eight college‑level courses.

• Texas: 900 classroom hours (630 in real‑estate topics) plus four years’ active experience in the preceding five years

‍• Startup budget: Expect $4 k – $12 k in year‑one costs for E&O, license fees, tech stack, and marketing.

You already know that being a real estate agent is a great way to make money. That’s why you got your license.

Do you have bigger goals of leading other agents or growing a team in the future?

Instead of hanging your license at an office, you can become a broker.

After you meet the educational requirements and pass the state test, you can get your broker’s license. 

Having a broker’s license means that you can work independently. It also means that you can have sales agents under your license. 

As a broker, when you have other agents closing deals, you get a percentage of the commissions. It’s a great opportunity to lead other agents to succeed while growing your own wealth.

#6. Use Your Credentials

There are many ways to monetize your experiences as a real estate agent.

Here are a few ideas on how you can use your credentials to make money in real estate:

• Educate
• Coach/Train
• Consult
• Write for Websites
  

As a REALTOR®, you can use your credentials as an educator. You can become a mentor to other agents. You’ll get a percentage of the deal for your guidance through the transaction. 

Do you have a passion for teaching? You can become a trainer at a real estate school.

Another great option is to become a real estate consultant. This model will allow you to consult with clients on an hourly basis.

Usually, consultants will offer their services as it relates to investing or financial planning through real estate.

Real estate blogs and websites are becoming more popular in this digital age. Freelance real estate writing is another great way to get paid for sharing your expertise.

Final Thoughts on Making Money with a Real Estate License 

Having a real estate license is not limited to helping others buy or sell properties. 

The real estate field gives you creative ways to utilize your license and make a living. So, take advantage and explore your options.

Did this inspire some ideas? Let me know in the comments below!