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How to Get a California Real Estate License (Step-by-Step Guide)
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If you want to become a real estate agent in Iowa, you must get a real estate license.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of getting licensed in Iowa, covering everything from prerequisites to FAQs.
Let’s dive into the steps!
Here’s a step-by-step guide to the process of becoming a licensed agent in Iowa:
Before you start the process, ensure you meet these eligibility requirements:
Iowa requires aspiring real estate agents to complete 60 hours of pre-licensing education from an accredited real estate school.
These courses will help you understand the foundational knowledge needed to work as an agent.
You’ll need to pass a final exam at the end of your pre-licensing course to receive your certificate of completion. This certificate is required when applying for your real estate exam.
If you want to enroll in a real estate school, we partnered with Kaplan to provide exceptional real estate courses to Iowa students.
Sign up through US Realty Training and get a discount.
Once you’ve completed the pre-licensing course, the next step is to apply for the Iowa Real Estate Exam.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Applications are submitted to Pearson VUE, the company that administers the exam. After your application is processed, you will receive details on scheduling your exam.
The Iowa Real Estate Exam is a significant milestone in the licensing process. The exam consists of two parts:
The national portion consists of 80 multiple-choice questions. The state portion consists of 40 multiple-choice questions.
The total time allotted is 3 hours and 30 minutes: 2 hours for the national portion and 1 hour and 30 minutes for the state portion.
You must score at least 70% on both sections to pass. Also, you must take the exam within 12 months of completing your Pre-Licensing education.
We provide an Iowa real estate crash course and exam prep package to make studying and passing easy. This program provides 8+ hours of video content that explains concepts, vocabulary, historical events, and laws on the exam.
You must have proof of an Errors and Omissions insurance policy in place before you can qualify for a real estate license in Iowa.
Before you can receive your license, you must complete a background check. This includes submitting your fingerprints to the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation. The background check ensures that you meet the state’s standards for ethical conduct.
In Iowa, real estate agents must work under the supervision of a licensed broker. You will need to secure a sponsoring broker before submitting your final license application. It’s essential to find a broker who fits your professional goals and provides the right support and mentorship.
Once you’ve passed the exam, completed the background check, purchased E@O insurance, and found a sponsoring broker, you can submit your final application for an Iowa real estate license.
Be sure to include the following:
Once your application is approved, you will be an active real estate agent in Iowa.
Here are the most common questions we get from students becomes agents.
The income of real estate agents in Iowa can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the number of transactions completed. According to ZipRecruiter, real estate agents in Iowa earn an average salary of $80,582 annually.
Indeed also provides valuable insights, showing that entry-level agents might earn lower salaries initially, but experienced agents have the potential for higher earnings through commission-based income.
These earnings depend heavily on the effort agents put into lead generation, networking, and their ability to close deals, making real estate in Iowa a career with high-income potential.
The cost to obtain an Iowa real estate license typically falls between $600 and $1,000. Here's a breakdown of some of the common costs:
Absolutely! Becoming a real estate agent in Iowa offers a career with flexibility and substantial earning potential. As a real estate agent, you have the freedom to set your own hours and work at your own pace.
Since your income is largely commission-based, there is no cap on how much you can make. The more effort you put into lead generation and marketing, the higher your income potential.
Before jumping into a career as a real estate agent, it’s important to consider the following:
Yes! Iowa has reciprocity agreements with several other states, making it easier for agents licensed in another state to get an Iowa real estate license. Here's how it works:
If you’re licensed in a state that has a reciprocity agreement with Iowa, you may be able to bypass some of the licensing requirements, such as pre-licensing education.
Iowa offers reciprocity agreements for real estate licensing with the following states:
You'll still need to submit an application, pay the required fees, and possibly pass the Iowa-specific portion of the real estate exam to demonstrate your knowledge of state laws and regulations.
It’s recommended that you contact the Iowa Real Estate Commission to determine the specific requirements based on your current state’s license.
In Iowa, you are required to renew your real estate license every three years.
The renewal process includes completing 36 hours of continuing education within that period. The courses are broken down as follows:
Becoming a licensed real estate agent in Iowa can be a highly rewarding career if you’re willing to put in the time and effort.
Whether you’re looking for financial freedom or flexibility, the opportunities are plentiful.
If you’re ready to get started, enroll in our partnered Iowa real estate licensing course today and get a discount.
If you're interested in becoming a real estate agent in Wisconsin, this guide provides everything you need to know to get your license.
From the pre-licensing education requirements to the application process, we’ll walk through each step to help you navigate this journey.
Let’s get started.
Becoming a licensed real estate agent in Wisconsin involves several steps. Below, we outline each step in order, including requirements, application processes, and tips for success.
Before you can begin the licensing process, you must meet the following prerequisites:
To qualify for the Wisconsin real estate license exam, you must complete a 72-hour pre-licensing course from a provider approved by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS).
As an alternative, you can complete 10 semester credit hours in related courses from an institution of higher learning.
The DSPS-approved course will cover essential real estate topics, including:
At the end of the pre-licensing course, you’ll need to pass a final exam with a minimum passing score of 75% to earn your completion certificate.
This certificate is required to proceed with your exam application.
If you want to enroll in a real estate school, we partnered with Kaplan to provide exceptional real estate courses to Wisconsin students.
Sign up through US Realty Training and get a discount.
Once you complete the pre-licensing course, the next step is to apply for the Wisconsin Real Estate Salesperson Exam. Here’s how to apply:
The Wisconsin real estate exam consists of 140 questions: 100 covering national real estate topics and 40 focused on Wisconsin state regulations.
You’ll have 4 hours to complete the exam, which is divided into these two main sections. To pass, you must score at least 75%.
To prepare effectively, start by reviewing your pre-licensing course materials, paying close attention to key concepts such as contracts, property ownership, and Wisconsin-specific laws.
We provide a Wisconsin real estate crash course and exam prep package to make studying and passing easy. This program provides 8+ hours of video content that explains concepts, vocabulary, historical events, and laws on the exam.
You get unlimited practice exams, vocab flashcards, an eBook study guide, and 2,000+ question and answer videos.
After passing the exam, apply for your Wisconsin real estate license online through the Wisconsin (DSPS) website. Here’s how:
Double-check all submission requirements to avoid processing delays.
In Wisconsin, newly licensed agents are required to work under a licensed real estate broker.
A sponsoring broker provides essential support, including training, access to client leads, and tools to help you start your career.
Research brokerages that align with your goals and offer mentorship opportunities.
Once you have signed with a brokerage, you’re an official real estate agent.
In this section, we answer common questions about obtaining and maintaining a real estate license in Wisconsin.
On average, Wisconsin real estate agents earn around $53,840 annually. However, earnings can vary widely based on factors such as experience, location, and the number of transactions completed.
Top-performing agents with established networks often earn significantly more, as real estate income is primarily commission-based.
For instance, Indeed reports that the average base salary for a real estate agent in Wisconsin is $91,329 per year, with reported earnings ranging from $39,101 to $213,315.
The overall cost of becoming a real estate agent in Wisconsin typically ranges between $500 and $800.
This includes essential fees, with additional optional expenses that can support exam preparation and licensing success.
Here is a breakdown of the costs:
For motivated individuals, a career in Wisconsin real estate can be highly rewarding, offering both financial and personal growth opportunities.
The market here is diverse, covering urban centers like Milwaukee and Madison, suburban areas, and scenic lake regions that attract both residential and commercial buyers.
Real estate agents can specialize in residential sales, commercial properties, vacation homes, or even investment properties, each with unique income potential. Additionally, the income in real estate is commission-based, meaning agents have significant control over their earnings, with top performers building lucrative careers.
Beyond financial gains, the career also allows for professional growth through networking, skill development, and client relationship management. Those who establish a strong client base and a solid reputation can enjoy long-term stability in an industry that values both expertise and client satisfaction.
Before beginning, it’s important to understand that real estate is not an "instant success" field; building a client base takes time and effort.
Real estate agents often work outside the typical nine-to-five schedule, accommodating clients on weekends, evenings, and sometimes on short notice. Success in real estate relies on networking, marketing, and maintaining a visible presence in the community. Agents need to be skilled at self-promotion, social media, and effective client follow-ups.
Additionally, because the field is competitive, staying adaptable and responsive to market changes is essential.
Continuous learning, such as taking additional courses or staying updated on local market trends, can give agents an edge.
For those prepared to invest in relationship-building and marketing while managing the demands of a flexible yet unpredictable schedule, a career in real estate can be both fulfilling and profitable.
Yes, Wisconsin offers reciprocity with certain states, allowing out-of-state agents from Illinois and Indiana to apply for a license without repeating the entire process.
However, you’ll still need to pass the Wisconsin state portion of the licensing exam and meet all other requirements set by the DSPS. This helps ensure agents are familiar with state-specific laws and practices.
Wisconsin real estate licenses are renewed every two years. To maintain an active license, agents must complete 18 hours of continuing education (CE) within each renewal period. Staying current with CE ensures you remain up-to-date with regulations and industry practices.
After licensing, start networking and building a client base. Many new agents join local real estate associations, attend industry events, and connect with experienced agents.
Investing in marketing materials, setting up a professional website, and utilizing social media can also help you attract clients and grow your business.
Becoming a licensed real estate agent in Wisconsin opens the door to a dynamic and potentially lucrative career. With commitment, the right brokerage support, and ongoing education, you can build a successful real estate career.
If you’re ready to get started, enroll in our partnered Wisconsin real estate licensing course today and get a discount.
If you want to become a real estate agent in Minnesota, you must earn your real estate license.
This article will tell you how to get your license, step-by-step.
Below are the necessary steps you need to complete to get your license and start your new career.
Before you start the licensing process, ensure you meet the following prerequisites:
Once you confirm that you meet these prerequisites, you’re ready to begin the pre-licensing education required to apply for a Minnesota real estate license.
The first step to obtaining your Minnesota real estate license is completing 90 hours of pre-licensing education from a state-approved school.
This coursework is divided into three 30-hour courses, each designed to equip you with the knowledge you need to succeed. Here is an overview of the topics covered:
These courses are available online and in-person through approved providers, offering flexibility to study at your own pace.
If you want to enroll in a real estate school, we partnered with Kaplan to provide exceptional real estate courses to Minnesota students.
Sign up through US Realty Training and get a discount.
Once you complete the 90 hours of education, the next step is to apply for the Minnesota real estate licensing exam.
The exam is managed by Pearson VUE, and here's how you can apply:
Once your application is submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation email with instructions on scheduling your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center or an online proctored exam.
The Minnesota real estate exam consists of two sections, and you must pass both to obtain your license.
You’ll have 4 hours to complete the entire exam, which gives you enough time to carefully review your answers.
The duration of the national section is 150 minutes (2.5 hours), and for the State section, the time is 90 minutes (1.5 hours). You need at least 75% on each section to pass.
We provide a Michigan real estate crash course and exam prep package to make studying and passing easy. This program provides 8+ hours of video content that explains concepts, vocabulary, historical events, and laws on the exam.
You get unlimited practice exams, vocab flashcards, an eBook study guide, and 2,000+ question and answer videos.
All applicants must complete a background check as part of the licensing process.
Visit an approved fingerprinting site, submit your fingerprints, and pay the required fee of approximately $30-$50.
Processing can take several weeks, so plan accordingly.
After passing the exam, the next step is to submit your license application to the Minnesota Department of Commerce.
In your application, you must include
Ensuring that all your documents are accurate and complete will help avoid any delays in processing your license.
Once your application is approved, you are an active agent.
Below are the most common questions we receive from students who are becoming a real estate agent in Minnesota.
The average salary for real estate agents in Minnesota can vary widely based on experience, market conditions, and property type.
According to CareerExplorer, the median annual income is approximately $37,200, though more experienced agents in the 90th percentile can earn up to $96,530 per year.
Salary.com provides a slightly different picture, showing that the typical median income for real estate agents and realtors in the state is around $107,531. These figures highlight how earnings can increase with experience and performance.
This variation underscores that real estate is a performance-based industry—your income will depend heavily on the volume and value of your transactions, market specialization, and networking efforts.
Expect to spend between $600 and $800 to get licensed. This includes:
Yes, a career in real estate offers flexibility and high earning potential. However, it requires persistence and the ability to network effectively. Success takes time, but for those committed to the profession, it can be a rewarding career.
Before becoming a real estate agent, it’s important to understand the demands and challenges of the career. Real estate agents work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate clients' schedules and show properties.
Building a strong client base requires time, persistence, and consistent effort—new agents may need several months before they close their first few deals.
Additionally, networking and self-promotion are critical to growing your business. Successful agents actively connect with potential clients, maintain relationships within their community, and market themselves both online and offline to attract leads and referrals.
Patience, resilience, and a proactive approach are key to thriving in this competitive field.
Minnesota offers real estate license reciprocity with several states, making it easier for licensed agents from these locations to obtain a Minnesota real estate license.
However, even with reciprocity, agents are generally required to pass the Minnesota-specific portion of the real estate exam and fulfill additional state-specific requirements to ensure they are familiar with Minnesota's laws and practices.
Here are the states with reciprocity agreements:
If you're licensed in one of these states, you’ll benefit from a more streamlined licensing process.
However, it’s recommended to contact the Minnesota Department of Commerce to confirm the latest requirements and ensure you meet all necessary criteria
Minnesota real estate licenses must be renewed every two years, and agents are required to complete 30 hours of continuing education (CE) during each renewal period.
The CE coursework must include specific topics, such as agency, law, and ethics, to ensure that agents stay updated on the latest legal and professional standards.
Out of the 30 hours, at least one module must focus on fair housing laws, which is a critical component of maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations.
Earning your real estate license in Minnesota can open the door to exciting career opportunities.
With the right preparation, dedication, and a solid work ethic, you can build a thriving career in the Minnesota real estate market.
If you’re ready to get started, enroll in our partnered Minnesota real estate licensing course today and get a discount.
You can look up any New York real estate license online in a couple of minutes, for free. Whether you're checking your own status before a renewal or verifying another agent, the state makes the record public.
Here's what you'll get: the exact site to use, a step-by-step walkthrough, what the results tell you, and how to fix a search that comes up empty.
You look up a New York real estate license through the New York Department of State (NYDOS) public license search. The New York Department of State is the agency that licenses and regulates real estate salespersons and brokers statewide.
All license records are stored in the state's system, and the search is public, so you don't need an account to use it. Start at the official NYDOS public license search: appext20.dos.ny.gov/nydos/selSearchType.do. Anyone can verify a license here, including agents, clients, and brokers checking a potential hire.
You look up your license in four quick steps on the NYDOS search page. Here's the full walkthrough.
Your results show four useful fields: license type (salesperson or broker), license status (active, inactive, or expired), expiration date, and original issue date. Check that everything is accurate, especially if you're heading into a renewal.
If your license doesn't show up, the usual cause is a spelling mismatch or the wrong search method. Work through these fixes before assuming there's a problem with your record.
One note on scope: the public search generally returns active licenses, so a recently expired or inactive record may not surface the same way. If yours is missing and you suspect a lapse, that's a signal to check your renewal status right away.
Looking up your license confirms your credentials are current and valid, which protects your ability to work. New York real estate licenses are only good for two years, and an expired license means you can't legally practice until it's reinstated.
Checking your status a few times a year takes minutes and can catch an approaching expiration before it interrupts a deal. If your search shows an expiration date coming up, that's your cue to start your New York license renewal early. Keep a screenshot or printout on hand too, since brokerages and clients sometimes ask for proof of an active license.
Looking up a New York real estate license is free, public, and fast: use the NYDOS search, enter a name or license number, and read the status and expiration. Make it a habit a few times a year so a lapse never sneaks up on you.
Want to turn an active license into a thriving business? US Realty Training's agent training program, From Rookie to Rockstar, gives you 6+ hours of video from Richard Schulman, one of the country's top Keller Williams agents, on finding clients, running walkthroughs, and closing more deals.
Getting a Washington real estate license takes six main steps: meet the basics, finish 90 hours of education, pass the state exam, clear a background check, apply through the Department of Licensing, and join a managing broker. One thing to know up front: Washington calls its entry-level license a "broker," and the supervising level a "managing broker."
This guide walks through each step, what it costs, and how the process works, with the requirements drawn from the Washington State Department of Licensing.
To get a Washington real estate (broker) license, you must be at least 18, have a high school diploma or GED, complete 90 hours of approved education, pass the state exam, clear a background check, and affiliate with a managing broker. In Washington, the entry-level license is called a "broker," which is the equivalent of a salesperson or agent in most other states. There's no citizenship or residency requirement, though you'll provide a Social Security number when you apply.
Washington requires 90 hours of approved pre-licensing education, split into a 60-hour Real Estate Fundamentals course and a 30-hour Real Estate Practices course. You take both from an approved school, online or in person, and pass each course's final exam with at least 70% to earn the completion certificates you need to register for the state exam.
If you want a flexible way to finish the requirement, see US Realty Training's Washington pre-licensing program.
You register for the Washington exam through PSI, the state's testing provider, after finishing your 90 hours. The exam has a national portion and a Washington state portion, and you need 70% on each to pass. You can test in person at a PSI center or online with remote proctoring. You must pass both portions within six months of each other, and apply for your license within one year of passing.
For the full question breakdown, timing, pass rates, and study tips, read our dedicated guide to the Washington real estate exam.
After you pass the exam, you complete a fingerprint background check, apply through the Department of Licensing, and affiliate with a managing broker. Schedule fingerprints through IdentoGO only after you pass, since Washington requires the exam first. Once your application clears, your license is issued, but you can't practice until a managing broker activates it.
Choose your brokerage on training, mentorship, and culture, not only the commission split. A new broker benefits most from a firm that offers real support in the first year.
Plan on roughly $800 to $1,200 total. The state exam costs $210 and the original broker license fee is $233, according to the Washington Department of Licensing. Education and fingerprinting make up the rest. Here's the breakdown:
Washington real estate brokers earn around $92,000 a year on average, according to Indeed, though pay is commission-based and varies widely. Entry-level brokers earn less while building a client base, and brokers in higher-priced markets like Seattle tend to earn more. Income depends on your transaction volume and how consistently you prospect.
Earning your Washington real estate license comes down to six steps: meet the basics, finish 90 hours of education, pass the PSI exam, clear your background check, apply through the Department of Licensing, and join a managing broker. Handle them in order and you'll be representing clients in the Evergreen State before long.
Ready to start? Enroll in US Realty Training's Washington pre-licensing program and get the courses, certificates, and support to move through the process with less stress.
To become a real estate associate broker in New Mexico, you must get your real estate license.
To become a licensed real estate associate broker in New Mexico, you must:
You’ll need to complete 90 hours of pre-licensing coursework from an approved real estate school. The courses cover critical topics such as:
At the end of each course, students must pass a final exam to earn a course completion certificate. The passing score for each course exam is typically 75% or higher. These certificates are required to apply for the real estate licensing exam.
If you want to enroll in a real estate school, we partnered with Kaplan to provide exceptional real estate courses to New Mexico students.
Sign up through US Realty Training and get a discount.
After completing your pre-licensing education, the next step is to apply for the New Mexico real estate exam. This exam ensures that candidates have the required knowledge to practice real estate effectively.
To apply, you must visit the PSI exam portal, where you will create an account and select a convenient testing date and location.
Be prepared to upload your course completion certificates and pay the $95 exam fee when registering. You can take the exam at several PSI testing centers across New Mexico, including locations in Albuquerque and Las Cruces.
Double-check that all documents are complete before scheduling your exam. Once you register, you’ll receive a confirmation with details about the exam date, time, and location.
It’s a good idea to arrive early at the testing center and bring two valid forms of identification, such as a driver’s license and passport.
The New Mexico real estate exam is a comprehensive test designed to evaluate your knowledge of real estate practices, state-specific regulations, and national real estate principles. The exam consists of two sections:
You will have four hours to complete the exam. To pass, you must score at least 75% on both sections. Preparing for the exam requires a solid study plan. Many candidates find it helpful to review course materials regularly, focus on key concepts such as property law and contracts, and use online practice tests to simulate the exam experience.
We provide a New Mexico real estate crash course and exam prep package to make studying and passing easy. This program provides 8+ hours of video content that explains concepts, vocabulary, historical events, and laws on the exam.
You get unlimited practice exams, vocab flashcards, an eBook study guide, and 2,000+ question and answer videos.
A background check is a mandatory step before obtaining your real estate license. The New Mexico Real Estate Commission requires all applicants to submit fingerprints through an approved vendor, such as Gemalto.
Scheduling an appointment is quick and easy, costing approximately $75. It’s a good idea to complete this step early, as background checks can take several weeks to process.
After passing the exam and completing the background check, you are ready to apply for your real estate license. Applications must be submitted to the New Mexico Real Estate Commission via their online portal or by mail. Be sure to gather all necessary documentation, including:
Carefully review your application to avoid delays. Once approved, the commission will issue your license, allowing you to start your career as a licensed New Mexico real estate associate broker.
To activate your license, you must affiliate with a sponsoring broker. Look for a brokerage that aligns with your goals, offers mentorship programs, or provides leads to help you grow your business.
Congratulations! With your license in hand, you’re ready to begin your career. Build your network, invest in marketing, and take advantage of your brokerage’s training opportunities to achieve success.
New Mexico real estate associate brokers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, with variations based on factors such as experience, location, and the volume of transactions.
According to recent data, entry-level associate brokers may earn around $41,000 to $43,000 per year, while associate brokers in more competitive markets, such as Albuquerque, report higher averages near $72,500. Top-performing associate brokers, especially those dealing in luxury or commercial real estate, have the potential to earn well over six figures annually.
This broad range highlights the importance of experience and specialization in increasing earning potential. associate brokers who invest time in networking, marketing, and continuous learning often find more success in the industry.
Expect total costs to fall between $700 and $1,100, which include:
The real estate market in New Mexico offers promising opportunities for those willing to put in the effort.
With the potential for a flexible schedule and uncapped earnings, becoming a real estate associate broker can be rewarding.
However, new associate brokers should prepare for the initial challenges of building a client base and investing in marketing.
Becoming a successful real estate associate broker requires more than just passing the exam. It involves consistent networking, self-discipline, and continuous learning.
New associate brokers should also be aware that commissions vary, and closing deals can take time, especially in the beginning. Having a financial cushion or a part-time job may help while building your business.
New Mexico does not offer reciprocity for your license if you’re a licensed real estate salesperson in another state.
This means you must follow the standard process to become licensed in New Mexico, which includes completing 90 hours of pre-licensing education, passing the state exam, and undergoing a background check.
However, New Mexico does offer reciprocity for broker licenses with Georgia, Louisiana, and Massachusetts.
Licensed brokers from these states can transfer their credentials without needing to complete the pre-licensing education or take the New Mexico exam. These brokers must still submit a certified license history as part of their application to demonstrate eligibility.
This distinction ensures that while brokers from certain states can take advantage of streamlined licensing, salespersons must meet New Mexico’s full licensing requirements to ensure familiarity with state-specific real estate practices.
Licenses must be renewed every three years. During each renewal period, associate brokers are required to complete 36 hours of continuing education, including mandatory courses such as ethics and New Mexico-specific legal updates. Submitting renewal applications on time is essential to avoid late fees.
After obtaining your license, the next steps are to build your brand, market your services, and grow your network.
Consider joining local real estate associations or attending industry events to meet potential clients and mentors.
Developing an online presence through social media platforms or a personal website is also helpful in attracting more leads.
If you don’t pass the exam on your first attempt, don’t worry. Candidates can retake the exam, but you will need to reschedule through the PSI portal and pay the exam fee again. It’s advisable to review the areas where you struggled and take additional practice tests before reattempting.
Yes, many associate brokers start part-time as they build their business. Working part-time allows you to keep a stable income from another job while developing your real estate career.
However, to be successful in real estate, it’s crucial to dedicate time to networking, marketing, and attending client appointments, even if you’re starting part-time.
Earning your New Mexico real estate license can unlock exciting career opportunities, but it requires commitment, preparation, and continuous learning.
With the right support and training, you can thrive in the New Mexico real estate market.
If you’re ready to get started, enroll in our partnered New Mexico real estate licensing course today and get a discount.
Becoming a real estate provisional sales associate in Oklahoma offers exciting opportunities with flexibility, financial growth, and the satisfaction of helping clients find their dream homes.
But to become one, you must get a real estate license.
This guide will walk you through every step of the process and answer common questions about becoming a licensed provisional sales associate in Oklahoma.
Below are the steps needed to get your Oklahoma real estate license.
The basic requirements to become a real estate provisional sales associate are:
Oklahoma requires 90 hours of pre-licensing education through a course approved by the Oklahoma Real Estate Commission (OREC).
At the end of the course, you are required to pass a final exam with a minimum score of 80% to receive your course completion certificate.
This certificate is crucial as it must be submitted with your application for the state licensing exam. Without passing the course exam, you cannot move forward with the state exam application.
You will have up to three years after completing the pre-licensing course to apply for your license.
If you want to enroll in a real estate school, we partnered with Kaplan to provide exceptional real estate courses to Oklahoma students.
Sign up through US Realty Training and get a discount.
Once you’ve completed the pre-licensing course and received your course completion certificate, the next step is to apply for the Oklahoma licensing exam.
You’ll need to apply for the exam through Pearson Vue Services, Oklahoma's official testing provider.
Passing the Oklahoma real estate licensing exam is a critical step in becoming a licensed provisional sales associate.
Administered by Pearson Vue, the exam provides immediate results, giving you clarity on your performance right away.
The Oklahoma real estate licensing exam consists of two sections:
You need to achieve a minimum score of 70% on each section to pass. The total time allotted for the exam is four hours, with results provided immediately after completion.
We provide an Oklahoma real estate crash course and exam prep package to make studying and passing easy. This program provides 8+ hours of video content that explains concepts, vocabulary, historical events, and laws on the exam.
You get unlimited practice exams, vocab flashcards, an eBook study guide, and 2,000+ question and answer videos.
Schedule a fingerprinting appointment with an authorized provider. Submit fingerprints to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) and the FBI.
This process can take several weeks. Be prepared to disclose any criminal history on your license application.
After passing the licensing exam and completing your background check, the next step is to submit your real estate license application through the Oklahoma Real Estate Commission (OREC) online portal.
Make sure your application is complete and accurate to avoid delays. Once submitted, OREC will review your materials within five business days.
If everything is in order, your license will be issued, and you’ll be ready to activate it by affiliating with a sponsoring broker.
Provisional sales associates must work under a licensed broker. Choose a brokerage that aligns with your career goals. Look for mentorship, tools, and marketing resources that will support your growth.
Once you join a brokerage, you’re an official real estate provisional sales associate.
Below are the most common questions we receive from students who want to become a real estate provisional sales associate.
Oklahoma real estate provisional sales associates earn a wide range of incomes, reflecting differences in experience, location, and market conditions.
On average, salaries typically range between $50,000 and $70,000 per year, although new provisional sales associates often start on the lower end while building their client base.
In more competitive markets or with increased transaction volumes, provisional sales associates can earn six-figure incomes.
Since real estate provisional sales associates primarily earn through commissions, income depends heavily on the number and value of transactions closed, along with any commission splits with their brokerage.
Obtaining a real estate license in Oklahoma typically costs $500 to $800, broken down as follows:
It’s essential to budget for these costs upfront, as the total amount may vary depending on your course provider, additional materials, and testing fees.
A career in real estate offers numerous benefits, such as flexibility, uncapped earning potential, and the ability to help people find their dream homes. However, it also comes with challenges, including the need for self-discipline, financial planning, and continuous learning.
Oklahoma’s real estate market is growing, particularly in cities like Tulsa and Oklahoma City, which creates opportunities for new provisional sales associates. Success in this field takes time, persistence, and the ability to network effectively, but for those willing to invest the effort, the rewards can be significant.
Before starting a real estate career, it’s essential to understand that building a successful business takes time and effort.
provisional sales associates need strong networking and marketing skills to attract clients, especially in the beginning. It’s also wise to plan for financial stability during the first few months since commissions can be irregular.
Ongoing education and staying informed about market trends are critical to remain competitive. Additionally, working with a supportive brokerage or team can provide valuable mentorship and resources to help you succeed early in your career.
Oklahoma offers reciprocity agreements with several states, making it easier for licensed provisional sales associates from those states to obtain an Oklahoma real estate license. If you hold a license in one of the following states, you may only need to pass the state-specific portion of the Oklahoma real estate exam and complete a background check:
provisional sales associates from non-reciprocal states may need to complete additional steps, such as pre-licensing education and passing both the national and state portions of the Oklahoma exam. Always confirm your eligibility and specific requirements with the Oklahoma Real Estate Commission (OREC).
Oklahoma real estate licenses must be renewed every three years.
During each renewal period, provisional sales associates are required to complete 21 hours of continuing education (CE). This includes 6 hours of core courses covering topics like ethics and fair housing, along with 15 hours of elective courses that focus on specialized areas of real estate.
After receiving your real estate license, the first step is to join a sponsoring brokerage. Working under a brokerage will allow you to begin practicing as a provisional sales associate, gain valuable experience, and access resources to grow your business.
It’s important to develop a marketing plan, which may include building a website, establishing a presence on social media, and designing business cards to promote your services.
Networking within the community and joining industry organizations, such as local Realtor associations, can also help you build connections and stay informed about market trends.
Additionally, consider setting career goals to track your progress and focus on areas where you want to grow, whether in residential sales, commercial properties, or real estate investing.
Obtaining your Oklahoma real estate license is the first step toward a rewarding career. With the right education and support from a great brokerage, you can build a successful business.
If you’re ready to get started, enroll in our partnered Oklahoma real estate licensing course today and get a discount.
If you want to become a real estate affiliate broker in Tennessee, you will need to get a real estate license.
This guide will show you, step-by-step, how to do just that. If you’re ready to start a new career, then let’s get started.
To become an affiliate broker in Tennessee, you must complete the steps below.
Before you can start, you must meet the following requirements:
Tennessee requires aspiring affiliate brokers to complete 90 hours of TREC-approved pre-licensing education:
To earn your course completion certificates for the Tennessee real estate license, you must pass the final exams for both the 60-hour and 30-hour pre-licensing courses.
A passing score of 70% is generally required for these exams, as outlined by TREC-approved providers.
Once you pass, your education provider will issue your completion certificates, which are essential for applying for the state licensing exam and ultimately receiving your real estate license in Tennessee.
If you want to enroll in a real estate school, we partnered with Kaplan to provide exceptional real estate courses to Tennessee students.
Sign up through US Realty Training and get a discount.
After completing your pre-licensing education, the next step is to apply for the Tennessee Real Estate Exam.
How to Apply:
The Tennessee Real Estate Exam is divided into two sections:
You’ll have 240 minutes (4 hours) to complete both sections. A passing score requires at least 70% on each section.
We provide a Tennessee real estate crash course and exam prep package to make studying and passing easy. This program provides 8+ hours of video content that explains concepts, vocabulary, historical events, and laws on the exam.
You get unlimited practice exams, vocab flashcards, an eBook study guide, and 2,000+ question and answer videos.
Once you pass the exam, it’s time to apply for your official Tennessee real estate license through the Tennessee Real Estate Commission (TREC).
Where to Apply:
Application Materials Needed:
In Tennessee, you cannot practice real estate independently until you are affiliated with a licensed broker. Choose a brokerage that aligns with your goals, offers mentorship, and provides the tools you need to grow your business.
Tennessee real estate affiliate brokers earn a wide range of salaries, with an average base salary of $102,783 per year according to recent data from Indeed.
However, earnings can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and commission structures. For example, affiliate brokers with more than ten years of experience typically earn over $100,000 annually, while those early in their careers average around $76,000.
Areas with a strong housing market, like Nashville, offer many opportunities, although some affiliate brokers report slightly lower earnings in the city due to competition and shifting market demand toward suburban areas.
These salary figures demonstrate that with effort and strategic planning, affiliate brokers in Tennessee can significantly boost their income, especially by focusing on high-value transactions and expanding their network in growing communities.
The total cost of obtaining a real estate license in Tennessee ranges from $500 to $1,000. Here’s a breakdown:
Additional expenses may include MLS membership fees, REALTOR® association fees, and marketing costs once you begin practicing.
Yes! Tennessee’s real estate market continues to grow, providing a wealth of opportunities for new affiliate brokers. While the career demands time and effort to build a client base, the rewards are significant. You’ll enjoy the flexibility of being your own boss and the potential for uncapped earnings through commissions.
Before starting your real estate career, it’s important to recognize that success takes time. Building a steady stream of clients won’t happen overnight, and the initial phase may require significant effort before seeing tangible results. Patience and persistence are key to long-term success.
Having savings is essential since it may take a few months before closing your first deal. With unpredictable income early on, a financial cushion can reduce stress and help you focus on growing your business without the immediate pressure of earning commissions.
Networking plays a crucial role in real estate success. Leverage both your personal and professional connections to find potential clients and referrals. A strong network can accelerate your growth, helping you establish credibility and gain new business opportunities.
Tennessee does not offer formal reciprocity agreements with other states. However, affiliate brokers licensed in other states may still qualify to receive a Tennessee license by submitting documentation for review.
The process allows TREC to assess whether your education, exam completion, and experience meet Tennessee’s licensing requirements.
If you are a licensed agent in another state, you need to:
This process helps Tennessee ensure that out-of-state affiliate brokers meet the state's unique regulatory standards. Once TREC reviews your submission, they will notify you if additional requirements are needed to obtain your Tennessee license.
Tennessee real estate licenses must be renewed every two years, and licensees are required to complete 16 hours of continuing education (CE) before their license expiration date.
This includes 6 hours of mandatory TREC Core courses and 10 hours of elective courses approved by the Tennessee Real Estate Commission (TREC).
All CE requirements must be fulfilled by the license renewal deadline (the same day as the original issuance date every two years).
After receiving your license, join a local REALTOR® association to access the MLS and networking events that connect you with industry professionals.
Developing a comprehensive marketing plan is another essential step. Use social media platforms, online listings, and email marketing to promote yourself as a new agent. Having a clear marketing strategy helps you build your personal brand and reach clients in your target market more effectively.
Engage in continuing education to stay current with industry trends.
Lastly, start building your Sphere of Influence (SOI)—the group of people you already know who might need your services or refer others to you. Personal connections can be a valuable source of initial leads.
Reach out to friends, family, and acquaintances, letting them know you’re now a licensed agent and ready to assist with their real estate needs.
Obtaining a Tennessee real estate license opens doors to exciting career opportunities. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to start your journey as a real estate agent.
Whether you want to work part-time or build a thriving full-time business, Tennessee’s growing real estate market has something for everyone.
If you’re ready to get started, enroll in our partnered Tennessee real estate licensing course today and get a discount.
Want to become a real estate sales agent in Utah? You'll need a Utah real estate license — and getting one is more straightforward than most people expect.
To get a real estate license in Utah, you must be at least 18, complete 120 hours of state-approved pre-licensing education, pass the Utah Real Estate Sales Agent Exam, clear a background check and fingerprinting, find a sponsoring broker, and submit your application to the Utah Division of Real Estate (DRE). Most new agents finish the process in about 3–6 months and spend roughly $650–$1,000.
This guide walks you through every step, with current requirements, fees, and timelines. Let's get started.
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Minimum age | 18 at the time of application |
| Education level | High school diploma or GED |
| Pre-licensing course | 120 hours at a state-approved school |
| Licensing exam | Utah Sales Agent Exam: 80-question national section + 50-question state section, 4 hours |
| Passing score | Scaled score of 70 (both sections) |
| Exam fee | $69 (paid to Pearson VUE) |
| Background check | Fingerprinting + FBI/state criminal history check |
| License application fee | $154 (Utah DRE) |
| Sponsoring broker | Required to activate license |
| License renewal | Every 2 years + 18 hours CE |
RequirementDetailMinimum age18 at the time of applicationEducation levelHigh school diploma or GEDPre-licensing course120 hours at a state-approved schoolLicensing examUtah Sales Agent Exam: 80-question national section + 50-question state section, 4 hoursPassing scoreScaled score of 70 (both sections)Exam fee$69 (paid to Pearson VUE)Background checkFingerprinting + FBI/state criminal history checkApplication fee$154 (paid to the Utah DRE)Sponsoring brokerRequired to activate your licenseRenewalEvery 2 years + 18 hours of continuing education
Here's the full process from start to finish:
Let's break each step down.
To qualify for a Utah real estate sales agent license, you must:
Utah requires 120 hours of approved pre-licensing education from a certified real estate pre-license school. Coursework covers:
You must pass your school's course exam to earn the certificate of completion you'll need to sit for the state exam.
US Realty Training partners with Kaplan to deliver Utah's 120-hour requirement online, at your own pace. Explore the Utah pre-licensing course →
After you finish your education, you'll register for the exam through Pearson VUE, Utah's testing provider. You'll need your course-completion certificate, a government-issued ID, and the $69 exam fee (paid by credit card at the time of reservation). Schedule your appointment at least 24 hours in advance, and plan to arrive 30 minutes early.
The Utah Sales Agent Exam is four hours long and split into two parts:
You'll need a passing scaled score of 70 on each section. Importantly, you must apply for your license within one year of completing your course and within 90 days of passing both exam sections.
Want to pass on your first try? Our Utah exam prep crash course includes 8+ hours of video, unlimited practice exams, vocab flashcards, an eBook study guide, and 2,000+ Q&A videos.
Every applicant must complete fingerprinting and a criminal background check. You can be fingerprinted at a Pearson VUE test center (by appointment) or use a private vendor — if you go private, you'll need two blue FD-258 fingerprint cards mailed or delivered to the DRE.
Submit your license application to the DRE first; the Division will then email you the fingerprint instructions and authorization forms within 1–2 business days. Budget roughly $35–$60 for fingerprinting and processing.
Your license must be activated under a licensed principal broker, so choosing the right brokerage is one of the most important decisions you'll make early on.
When comparing brokerages, look beyond commission splits. In your first year, training and mentorship matter most — prioritize brokers who offer strong onboarding, lead support, and hands-on coaching for new agents.
Utah applications are submitted online through the Division's Online Management System using a UtahID account (the old RELMS system has been retired). Use the same email address you used to register with Pearson VUE to avoid processing delays.
You'll upload (all documents must be in PDF format):
Current processing time is about 30 days. The DRE will email you once your license is approved.
Once approved, your license is issued electronically through the DRE's online system. With an active license tied to your broker, you can officially begin helping clients buy, sell, and lease property in Utah.
Expect to spend roughly $650–$1,000 total. Here's the breakdown:
| Item | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Pre-licensing education | $400–$700 |
| Exam fee | $69 |
| Fingerprinting & background check | $35–$60 |
| License application fee | $154 |
| Total | ~$650–$1,000 |
Education is the biggest variable, so the package you choose largely determines your total cost. Fees are set by the Division and can change — confirm current amounts on the Utah DRE fee schedule.
Most people complete the process in 3 to 6 months. The biggest factor is how quickly you finish the 120-hour course — full-time students can move much faster than those studying part-time. After you pass the exam, the DRE currently takes about 30 days to process applications.
Real estate income is commission-based, so earnings vary widely by experience, market, and hustle. As a rough guide, many Utah agents earn somewhere between $45,000 and $75,000 per year, while top producers in high-demand areas like Salt Lake City and Park City can clear six figures. For current figures, check the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS data and Salary.com, and remember that your income ultimately tracks how effectively you generate leads and close deals.
The exam is challenging but very passable with preparation. It's four hours long, with 80 national questions and 50 Utah-specific questions, and you need a scaled score of 70 on each section. Candidates who use structured exam prep — practice tests, flashcards, and video review — pass at much higher rates than those who rely on the course alone.
Yes. Utah has reciprocity agreements with Georgia, Mississippi, and Alberta, Canada. Active, in-good-standing licensees from those jurisdictions can apply without repeating Utah's education or the national exam (state-specific requirements still apply). Agents licensed in other states may qualify for an education and/or national-exam waiver, reviewed case by case by the DRE. What a reciprocity agreement actually waives varies by state, so check how real estate license reciprocity works before you apply.
Utah real estate licenses renew every two years. You'll need 18 hours of continuing education each cycle, including at least 9 core hours — 3 of which must be the Division-approved mandatory course. New agents renewing for the first time must instead complete the 12-hour New Agent Course, the 3-hour mandatory course, and 3 additional hours. Renew on time to avoid late fees or expiration.
Yes. Utah's 120-hour pre-licensing requirement can be completed through approved online schools, so you can study on your own schedule. US Realty Training's Utah licensing course is fully online and self-paced.
Build your foundation: set up a professional website and social presence, write a simple business plan, and start networking at local real estate events. Keep learning, too — your first post-licensing and continuing education courses keep you compliant and sharpen your skills as you grow.
Getting your Utah real estate license takes several steps — education, exam, background check, and brokerage — but the path is clear and the payoff is real. With the right preparation, you can be helping clients (and earning commissions) within a few months.
Ready to begin? Enroll in our Utah real estate licensing course today and get a discount.
Homeownership comes with major perks. It allows you the freedom to create your own unique living environment and an increased level of financial stability. It also offers you the ability to build equity in your home.
This article will outline everything you should know about home equity, how to build it, and the best way to use it.
Homebuyers are driven by several factors, including a desire for independence, control, and self-expression, which can be summarized in an acronym known as U.P.T.E.E., which refers to a property owner’s bundle of rights.
These rights are as follows:
With these rights comes the possibility to build value, or home equity, in your home. That equity allows the homeowner’s right (and defined by the right to “encumber”) to borrow money against the property to secure a loan.
Equity is the difference between the amount of money that you owe the mortgage lender and the amount of money that your home is worth.
A more complete way to think about it is:
Equity = market value − what you owe on all liens secured by the property (for example, your mortgage plus any HELOC or home equity loan).
Over time, you will make mortgage payments on the house, reducing the loan’s principal balance, thus building equity by increasing the percentage of the home you actually own. Knowing how to calculate your mortgage payment tells you how much of each one goes to principal instead of interest.
If you were to purchase a home worth $300,000, for example, using a $30,000 down payment, you would automatically have $30,000 of equity at closing.
As you make each payment toward your mortgage, your loan balance will decrease. This builds more equity as long as the value of your home remains the same or increases over time.
Once you pay 100% of your mortgage, you will have 100% equity.
Sometimes, home prices can drop sharply, and a homeowner may owe the lender more than what the home is actually worth.
Using our example, if the home’s value dropped to $200,000 and you still owed $240,000, the loan would be considered “underwater,” or you would have “negative equity.”
There are several different ways to build equity in your home, including:
You can tap into the equity of a home you have built as a convenient way to borrow money. Because the loan is secured by your home, home equity borrowing can sometimes be lower-cost than many unsecured loans—but rates and qualifications vary by lender, credit score, and market conditions.
Depending on a person’s credit score and financial history, a lender will generally want to see a combined loan-to-value (CLTV) ratio around 80%–85% or less. CLTV looks at what you owe on your first mortgage plus the new loan, divided by your home’s current value. That’s why most homeowners can’t borrow “the full value” of the home—lenders usually cap how much you can borrow based on your home’s value minus what you already owe.
Most home equity loan terms will range between five and 20 years, but borrowers can take 30 years to pay a home equity loan depending on the lender and product. On longer-term loans, a significant amount of a borrower’s monthly payment can go to interest in the beginning, which is why it’s important to compare the total cost of the loan—not just the monthly payment.
It can take years for a homeowner to reach a 20% equity threshold, but the timeline depends on the down payment, extra principal payments, loan type, and how home values change. Some homeowners reach it quickly, while others may take longer.
Many small business owners will tap into home equity and use the money to help grow their business. The move is particularly advantageous when avoiding higher interest rates associated with a small business loan.
Emergencies happen. Most financial advisors suggest having an emergency fund covering six months of your living expenses. But that’s hard for most people to do. A home equity loan may be your best choice when faced with an emergency and no way to get the finances you need.
Home equity loans can be great tools for consolidating high-interest debts at lower interest rates. You can use this method to help you pay off personal debts like credit cards and car loans.
If the lender approves, you can use your home equity for covering college expenses. Although student loans are usually your best bet for paying college expenses, home equity loans can sometimes offer better low-interest options.
Home equity loans are most commonly used for home improvement projects because, in addition to making your home more livable, comfortable, and desirable, the upgrades that you make can potentially raise the house’s value, thus building more equity. It can really be a win-win.
Home improvement is also the most common situation where home equity loan/HELOC interest may qualify for a tax deduction—when the funds are used to buy, build, or substantially improve the home that secures the loan.
There is no doubt that most Americans who can purchase a home do so to put a roof over their heads. Still, through equity, homeownership truly becomes an investment.
A home equity loan (or HELOC) can be a valuable tool, but rates vary and should be compared carefully. Also, tax benefits are not automatic—interest is generally deductible only when the borrowed funds are used to buy, build, or substantially improve the home that secures the loan (and other IRS limits/rules apply).
They just have to make sure they have a steady income that can repay the loan.
The best real estate brokerage for new agents in 2026 is the one that trades a slice of your commission for real training, because your first year is about learning deals, not maximizing splits. For most new agents, that means Keller Williams or eXp Realty. For agents who want benefits and salary-like stability, it means Redfin.
This guide compares the 10 biggest names, what they pay, what they charge, and who each one fits. It also covers the news that changed this list: Compass now owns four of the brands on it.
TL;DR: Big-name brokerages are usually the right first move because they offer structured training, mentorship, and brand trust while you learn the business. Keller Williams and eXp lead on training and capped splits. Realty ONE Group pays the most per deal but supports you the least. And as of January 2026, Coldwell Banker, Century 21, and Sotheby's all answer to Compass.
A real estate brokerage is the licensed company a new agent must work under to legally represent buyers and sellers.
| Question | Quick answer |
|---|---|
| What's the best real estate brokerage for new agents? | Keller Williams and eXp Realty, because both pair structured training and mentorship with a capped commission split. |
| Which brokerage has the best commission split? | Realty ONE Group's 100% model pays the most per deal, but you pay monthly and per-transaction fees whether you close or not. |
| Is Keller Williams good for new agents? | Yes. KW is built around education, with a 70/30 split that converts to 100% once you hit your office's annual cap. |
| What's the best brokerage for part-time agents? | Virtual, low-overhead brokerages like eXp Realty, because you skip desk fees and train online on your own schedule. |
| What changed in 2026? | Compass acquired Anywhere Real Estate in January 2026, taking over Coldwell Banker, Century 21, Sotheby's, and more. Real Brokerage is set to acquire RE/MAX in late 2026. |
| Do all brokerages charge desk fees? | No. RE/MAX offices often do, eXp and Keller Williams don't, and franchise offices set their own fee sheets. |
The biggest shakeup in decades hit this list in January 2026: Compass completed its acquisition of Anywhere Real Estate on January 9, 2026, according to Compass' SEC filing. That puts Coldwell Banker, Century 21, Sotheby's International Realty, Corcoran, ERA, and Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate under one roof. Compass' Q1 2026 earnings release counts more than 300,000 professionals across the combined network.
Two more moves matter. Rocket Companies completed its acquisition of Redfin on July 1, 2025, per Rocket's SEC filing. And in April 2026, The Real Brokerage agreed to acquire RE/MAX Holdings, with the deal expected to close in the second half of 2026, according to RE/MAX's Q1 2026 report.
For you, the practical takeaway is this: the brand on the sign matters less than the office you join. Splits, fees, and mentorship are still set locally. Ask for everything in writing.
| Brokerage | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Keller Williams | Training and mentorship. 70/30 split with an annual cap, then 100%. | Caps vary by office. Big offices mean internal competition. |
| eXp Realty | Virtual flexibility. 80/20 split with a $16,000 cap, stock perks. | No physical offices. Mentorship program trims early splits. |
| Redfin | Salary-style stability. W-2 employee model with benefits and leads. | Lower payout on company-generated leads. Less autonomy. |
| Compass | Luxury markets and tech tools. | Negotiated splits favor proven producers, not rookies. |
| Coldwell Banker (Compass) | Brand trust plus in-person office support. | No cap at most offices. Splits and fees vary by location. |
| Century 21 (Compass) | Name recognition and structured mentorship. | Conservative starting splits plus franchise fees. |
| Sotheby's International Realty (Compass) | High-end clientele and global referrals. | Luxury is a hard lane for a first-year agent. |
| Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices | Prestige brand with solid training resources. | Conservative starting splits and royalty fees. |
| RE/MAX | High splits for self-sufficient agents. | Desk fees hurt in slow months. Acquisition pending in 2026. |
| Realty ONE Group | Keeping 100% of your commission. | Monthly fees regardless of closings. You're mostly on your own. |
Yes. Keller Williams is the strongest pick for most new agents because the entire company is built around education and mentorship. KW is the largest real estate franchise in the U.S. by agent count, and its KW University coursework, productivity coaching, and mentor pairing are designed for people closing their first deals.
The money works like this: agents start on a 70/30 split. A commission cap is the maximum a brokerage collects from your commissions each year. Once you hit it, you keep 100% until your anniversary date. KW caps vary by market center, so ask your local office for the exact number. KW also runs a profit-sharing program that pays agents a slice of office profits.
The trade-off is size. Popular market centers are crowded, and you'll compete with teammates for the same neighborhoods.
eXp Realty is the best fit for new agents who want flexibility and don't need an office. It's a virtual-first brokerage with an 80/20 split and a $16,000 annual cap, after which you keep 100% for the rest of your anniversary year. New agents typically work through a mentorship program at a reduced split on their first few transactions.
eXp has been busy. According to eXp World Holdings' Q1 2026 earnings report, the company had 82,332 agents as of March 31, 2026, and closed 91,598 transactions in the quarter. In May 2026, it acquired the NextHome franchise network and changed its stock ticker to AGNT, signaling a push beyond the pure cloud-brokerage model.
The downside is the same as the upside: no offices. If you learn best face to face, eXp will feel lonely. Stock awards and revenue share are nice, but don't pick a brokerage for perks you'll only earn at high volume.
Redfin is the best choice for new agents who want a paycheck, benefits, and leads instead of pure commission. Redfin agents are W-2 employees with health insurance, 401(k) matching, and covered business expenses. Leads come from Redfin's site traffic, so you spend your time closing instead of prospecting.
Redfin has been part of Rocket Companies since July 1, 2025, per Rocket's SEC filing. Under the Redfin Next plan, agents earn higher splits on self-sourced deals and lower splits on company-generated leads.
The trade-off is autonomy. You build Redfin's brand, not yours. Entrepreneurial agents tend to outgrow it.
Compass is built for luxury markets and proven producers, which makes it a stretch for most first-year agents. Splits are negotiated individually, and negotiating power comes from a track record you don't have yet.
That said, Compass is now the biggest player in American real estate. Its Q1 2026 earnings release reports 84,187 agents in its owned brokerage, $97.3 billion in brokerage transaction volume for the quarter, and a combined network of more than 300,000 professionals after the Anywhere acquisition. Its tech platform is a real advantage, and it's rolling out to the acquired brands through 2026 and 2027.
If you're set on luxury and can land a seat on a productive Compass team, it can work. Otherwise, build your first 2 years somewhere with structured training.
Coldwell Banker is a solid choice for new agents who want a famous brand and an actual office to walk into. Training is a real strength. Coldwell Banker University offers structured onboarding and ongoing coursework, and the brand's century-plus reputation helps a rookie win listing appointments.
Two things to check before signing. First, most Coldwell Banker offices don't cap commissions, so you'll split with the house on every deal, forever. Second, Coldwell Banker is now a Compass brand following the January 2026 merger, and offices include both company-owned and franchised locations, so splits and fee stacks vary widely. Get the fee sheet in writing.
Century 21 works for new agents who value name recognition and structured mentorship over a fat split. Many offices start new agents near a 50/50 arrangement, plus a franchise royalty fee on each deal, with better splits unlocked as production grows. Each office is independently owned, so terms vary more than at almost any other brand on this list.
Like Coldwell Banker, Century 21 became a Compass brand in January 2026. Day to day, that changes little for now, but expect new tech tools as Compass integrates its platform across franchise brands in 2027.
Sotheby's is the luxury-prestige play, and it's better suited to your second brokerage than your first. Affiliates set their own splits and fees, the clientele expects polish, and business runs on referrals that new agents haven't earned yet. In 2024, the brand reported $157 billion in global sales volume, which tells you the deal sizes and the expectations.
Sotheby's also joined the Compass family in the January 2026 merger. If high-end is your long-term lane, start at a training-first brokerage, then move up. Here's how to change brokerages when you're ready.
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices offers brand prestige with more new-agent support than Sotheby's, but conservative starting economics. New agents often start around a 60/40 split, and some offices add royalty and transaction fees on top. The REsource Center training and marketing tools are legitimately useful for a first-year agent.
One point of confusion worth clearing up: BHHS is owned by Berkshire Hathaway's HomeServices of America, not by Anywhere, so it was not part of the Compass deal. It remains one of the largest independent networks in the country.
RE/MAX pays experienced agents the most and supports new agents the least, and in 2026 it comes with a big asterisk. The classic model pairs a very high split with a monthly desk fee, which is great when you're closing monthly and painful when you're not. Newer programs like Aspire give rookies lower-fee on-ramps, so ask each office what they offer.
The asterisk: according to RE/MAX Holdings' Q1 2026 report, the company had 149,192 agents worldwide and 47,443 in the U.S., and it has agreed to be acquired by The Real Brokerage in a deal expected to close in the second half of 2026. If you join a RE/MAX office this year, you're also joining whatever comes next.
Realty ONE Group is the best-known 100% commission brokerage, which means you keep your full commission and pay flat monthly and per-transaction fees instead of a split. For a high producer, the math is unbeatable. For a brand-new agent, those fees come due whether you close or not.
The company does offer training through ONE University and transaction tech through zONE, but the model assumes you can generate your own business. If you can't yet, a split-based brokerage that invests in you is the cheaper option in year 1, even though it looks more expensive on paper.
Choose the brokerage that maximizes your learning in year 1, not your take-home per deal. A 100% commission on zero closings is still zero. Compare offices on these 6 factors, in this order:
One more 2026-specific note: since August 17, 2024, NAR's settlement rules require written buyer agreements before touring homes, according to the National Association of Realtors. Ask every brokerage you interview how they train new agents on buyer presentations. The offices with a sharp answer are the ones taking training seriously.
Virtual and low-fee brokerages fit part-time agents best because you're not paying for a desk you rarely use. eXp Realty is the standard answer: no desk fees, online training you can attend after your day job, and a cap structure that doesn't punish low volume. Some Century 21 and Coldwell Banker offices also welcome part-timers, but confirm that monthly fees won't eat your occasional commissions.
Your first brokerage is a 2-year decision, not a marriage. Pick the office that will teach you the most, learn everything, and renegotiate or move once you have a track record. Agents switch brokerages all the time, and the good ones switch from a position of strength.
Interview at least 3 offices before you sign anything, and bring the 6-factor checklist above.
Most new agents fail because nobody taught them how to actually run the business. That's what our Career Course covers: lead generation, buyer presentations, and your first listing, taught live. Start the US Realty Training Career Course and walk into any brokerage interview with a plan.
Whether you passed the state exam or you are still studying, you might have thought about the brokerage interview process.
It deserves a moment of recognition before you trudge onward in your path to become a real estate agent.
After passing the state exam, you’re given your real estate license but nowhere to hang it. That’s why you have to sign with a brokerage.
Signing with a brokerage is the final step to becoming a real estate agent.
Also known as “hanging your license,” signing with a brokerage contractually employs you. Every agent signs with a brokerage.
People will often become timid or nervous before their big interview.
Those feelings are natural, but you should know there’s nothing to fear. Real estate agents don’t need previous experience or a flourishing work portfolio to impress the hiring team.
When you interview at a real estate brokerage, there are 4 tips you should remember:
Now, let's explore what each one of these tips means in more detail.
From the moment you walk in the front door, look around the brokerage office. Feel the environment, meet the people, and look at the decor.
What kind of coffee do they have in stock? Is the office pet-friendly? Are people genuinely disgruntled to be there at the start of the week?
These are simple questions and observations to feel the office culture.
Little do most newbie agents know, but the office culture is among the most important parts of the interview process.
The brokerage should help you grow and become a professional, so being stuck in an environment that doesn’t fit your culture will stiffen your development.
Feel the brokerage culture. If you like what you see and hear, then the brokerage will be a good fit for you.
Don’t settle for the first brokerage you interview with. You have all the power to find the best place to hang your license.
When you interview with a brokerage, you will be meeting the team that dictates the business’s direction. During your interview, they will ask you questions to learn more about you.
What they are looking for is your passion behind your career.
Questions like “Why are you interested in us,” “Why real estate,” or “Where do you see yourself in 5-years” are common questions that come up in an interview because they help vent the applicants.
Brokerages seek people who have the drive to excel in their careers and help generate revenue.
You don’t need the experience to show them passion.
Becoming your authentic self by answering these questions honestly will help them understand who you are, which is the goal of the interview.
Don’t be afraid to show them your personality and who you are – so long as you remain professional.
Most interview applicants will forget to ask questions. Asking questions is the best way to show passion, drive, and enthusiasm.
Questions pertaining to the brokerage’s goals, success, and environment are helpful to ask.
But, the two important ones to bring up are:
Brokerages serve you, the real estate agent, just as much as you serve them.
They should provide you resources to develop professionally and grow as an agent.
If you feel like you won’t have access to these resources, then you should critically assess if you want to work with this brokerage.
Interviews are two-way streets. Use this opportunity to ask questions and figure out if the brokerage is the right fit for you.
This won’t seem interrogative from the broker’s perspective, because it will show off your passion.
Dressing well for the environment will always show the brokerage that you match the culture and you’re a professional.
Showing up in clothes that match the office culture will reduce the barriers you place between yourself and the interviewer.
Finding out the brokerage dress style can be done with a little research on their website.
They might have images posted that will give you clues on how the office dresses.
The worst-case scenario: dress professionally with a splash of color. You’re a professional, but more importantly, you have a personality.
Brokerages hire real estate agents who will represent their brand well.
They don’t want to hire someone who is unprofessional and will tarnish their reputation.
Showing up to the interview and with a warm, friendly personality will go further than you might think.
You don’t need the experience to become a real estate agent, so showing the brokerage that you’re able to abide by the brokerage style, culture, and values will help you pass the interview.
Brokerages take responsibility for the agent’s actions.
During the interview, the broker will be vetting you to make sure you will properly represent the business.
If you can show them that you will always be professional and have the best interest of the brokerage and your professional development, then you can do no wrong.
We want to hear what’s on your mind before an upcoming interview.
A lot of people think the only way to make money with a real estate license is by helping buyers and sellers close deals.
That is definitely one way to do it. But it is not the only way.
A real estate license can also help you earn money through referrals, investing, representing yourself in deals, becoming a broker, building a team, creating educational content, and using your license to open other opportunities in the real estate industry.
That matters because not everyone wants to build a traditional full-time sales career. Some people want part-time income. Some want to invest. Some want to create long-term business growth. Others want to stay involved in real estate without depending only on buyer and seller transactions.
If that sounds like you, the good news is this: there are multiple ways to make money with a real estate license.
Yes.
You do not have to rely only on traditional home sales to make money with a real estate license.
That does not mean every path is easy or passive. But it does mean a license can create different kinds of earning opportunities depending on your goals, your skills, and how active you want to be.
Some options are faster and more direct, like referral income. Others are longer-term plays, like investing, becoming a broker, or building a team. Some paths use the license more as a credibility tool that helps you create other income opportunities in real estate.
The key is knowing which path fits you best.
One of the simplest ways to make money with a real estate license is by becoming a referral agent.
A referral agent connects a buyer or seller with another active real estate agent and earns a referral fee if the transaction closes. This can be appealing if you have strong relationships, a large network, or people who trust you, but you do not want to handle showings, negotiations, or the day-to-day work of running transactions yourself.
This path can be especially attractive for:
Referral income is not usually the fastest path to large earnings, but it can be one of the cleanest ways to turn relationships into income.
Best for:
Part-time flexibility and relationship-based income
Income style:
Per closed referral
A real estate license can also help you make money by strengthening your investing strategy.
That does not mean the license magically turns you into an investor. But it can help you better understand contracts, negotiations, property value, local market activity, and the buying and selling process. In some cases, it may also allow you to participate more directly in your own transactions, depending on your state rules, brokerage setup, and compliance obligations.
This path can be attractive if your bigger goal is long-term wealth rather than just transactional income. Instead of only earning from commissions, you can use your knowledge and access to spot deals, build relationships, and make more informed decisions as an investor.
Best for:
Long-term wealth building
Income style:
Investment gains, equity growth, possible commission savings depending on the deal structure
If you plan to buy, sell, or invest personally, a real estate license may help you make money by allowing you to represent yourself in your own deals.
This can create value in a few different ways:
This is not the main reason most people get licensed, but it can be a meaningful benefit if you expect to buy or sell property more than once over time.
Best for:
People planning to buy, sell, or invest themselves
Income style:
Savings, transaction value, and better deal control
One of the biggest long-term income paths is becoming a broker.
A broker can potentially create more control over the business, earn from their own production, and in some business models benefit from the production of other agents. This usually is not the first step for a brand-new license holder, but it is one of the clearest ways to expand your earning potential over time.
Your current page mentions broker salary and agent salary figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That kind of comparison can still be useful context as long as it supports the main question instead of dominating it. According to the current version of your page, median pay figures remain higher for brokers than for sales agents, which fits the broader point that brokerage is a longer-term income expansion path.
Best for:
Agents thinking long term and wanting more control
Income style:
Personal production, brokerage revenue, and larger business upside
Another way to make money with a real estate license is by growing beyond solo production.
Your current article uses the phrase “create a downline,” but that wording can feel vague. A cleaner way to explain the idea is this: some agents eventually grow a team, expand their influence, recruit other agents, or participate in brokerage models that reward growth and production across a larger network.
This is not usually where someone starts. But it is one of the paths that can turn a license into a bigger business rather than just a job.
Best for:
People who want scale and leadership over time
Income style:
Production plus business growth, depending on the model
You do not have to rely only on traditional home sales to make money with a real estate license.
In some cases, your license can help you earn income in related real estate work where industry knowledge matters. That can include transaction support, leasing, operations, investor support, client service, or other property-related roles.
The license may not always be the only reason you get paid, but it can make you more valuable. It shows that you understand the real estate process, industry terms, contracts, and how transactions work.
That added credibility can help you qualify for opportunities, stand out from other candidates, and create income in the real estate industry without depending entirely on closing your own buyer and seller deals.
If your goal is to stay connected to real estate while building income in a different way, this can be a practical path.
Best for:
People who want to use their license in a support, hybrid, or real-estate-adjacent role
Income style:
Salary, hourly pay, bonuses, or hybrid compensation depending on the role
The best way to make money with a real estate license depends on what you want out of it.
If you want the most direct path to income, helping buyers and sellers close deals is still the clearest route.
If you want more flexibility and do not want to manage every part of a transaction, referral fees may be a better fit.
If your goal is long-term wealth, investing in real estate or representing yourself in your own deals can create more value over time.
If you want to grow into something bigger, becoming a broker or building a team can open the door to more income and more control.
The good news is that you do not have to rely only on home sales to make your license worthwhile. There are multiple ways to use it, and the right path depends on your goals, your strengths, and how you want to build your career.
For many people, earning referral fees is one of the easiest ways because you do not have to manage the full transaction yourself.
It can be. Becoming a broker can create more long-term earning potential, especially if you want more independence, more control, or the ability to build a larger business.
Yes. Some people use their license part-time to earn referral income, support their own investing goals, or help a small number of clients each year.
A real estate license can help you make money in more ways than most people realize.
Yes, traditional home sales are one path. But they are not the only path.
You can earn through referral fees. You can use your license to support your own investing. You can represent yourself in deals. You can grow into a broker, build a team, or use your license in related real estate work.
That is what makes a real estate license so valuable. It does not lock you into one income model.
Instead, it gives you options.
The important thing is not just getting licensed. It is understanding how you want to use that license to create income in a way that fits your goals.
Finding the owner of a property is one of the most practical skills a real estate agent canhave. Whether you're chasing off-market deals, following up on expired listings, orworking through a pre-foreclosure list, knowing who owns a property — and how to reach them — is the difference between a lead and a dead end.
This guide is written for real estate professionals. Not for neighbors trying to figure out who owns the vacant lot next door. If you're prospecting at any kind of scale, thesemethods will save you hours and open doors that most agents never find.
How to Find a Property Owner: 7 Methods That Actually Work
Finding the owner of a property is one of the most practical skills a real estate agent can have. Whether you're chasing off-market deals, following up on expired listings, or working through a pre-foreclosure list, knowing who owns a property — and how to reach them — is the difference between a lead and a dead end.
This guide is written for real estate professionals. Not for neighbors trying to figure out who owns the vacant lot next door. If you're prospecting at any kind of scale, these methods will save you hours and open doors that most agents never find.
Knowing how to find a property owner is core to three of the most productive prospecting strategies agents use.
Off-market deals: Most sellers aren't on Zillow. They haven't called an agent. If you can identify a motivated owner before they list — someone going through a divorce, an estate, a tax delinquency, or just a property they've held too long — you can have a conversation that leads to a listing before any competition exists.
Expired listings: When a listing expires, the owner's name is typically still in the MLS. But their contact info may be outdated, or they've set up systems to avoid calls. Knowing how to track down a current mailing address or phone number through public records gives you a real shot at reconnecting.
Pre-foreclosure prospecting: Notice of Default filings are public records. They identify properties in financial distress weeks or months before foreclosure. Reaching those owners early — before they're overwhelmed with investor postcards — means you can actually help.
In all three cases, the search starts the same way: find the owner of record, verify it's current, and figure out the best way to make contact. Here are the 7 methods that work.
The county assessor's website is the starting point for almost every property owner search. It's free, it's public, and it's updated regularly because property taxes depend on it.
Every county in the US maintains a property tax database. Most of them have a searchable online portal. You enter an address, a parcel number, or sometimes an owner name, and the system returns the owner of record, the mailing address on file (which may be different from the property address), the parcel number, assessed value, and tax status.
To find your county assessor's site, search "[county name] county assessor" or "[county name] county property tax search" — most counties have a .gov site.
Limitations: The assessor's records show the legal owner of record, which may be an LLC, a trust, or an estate. If the property is owned under an entity name, you'll need to go further (see Method 5). Also, mailing addresses are only updated when the owner files a change — they can be stale.
Recorded deeds are the official legal documents that transfer property ownership — and they're public record. The county recorder (sometimes called the county clerk) maintains these records.
While the assessor focuses on taxes, the recorder maintains the chain of title — every deed, lien, mortgage, and encumbrance on a property. This is useful when you want to confirm recent ownership transfers, check for liens, or understand the full ownership history.
Most county recorder offices have online search portals. Search "[county name] county recorder" or "[county name] county clerk deed search." Larger counties (Los Angeles, Cook County, Harris County) have well-developed systems. Some rural counties still require in-person visits or written requests.
Pro tip: If the assessor shows an LLC as the owner, the deed in the recorder's database may still show the individual who transferred the property into the LLC — giving you a real name to work with.
When you need to search multiple properties at once, or when you want contact information beyond just the owner name, dedicated property data tools are worth knowing.
Free options: Zillow shows some owner data on listed properties, but it's limited and not designed for prospecting. County assessor sites (Method 1) are still the best free option for one-off lookups.
Paid professional tools:
If you're doing any kind of systematic prospecting — expired listings, off-market farming, pre-foreclosure outreach — a paid tool will pay for itself quickly.
A basic Google search won't usually return property ownership data directly — but it can surface ownership clues that accelerate your other searches.
Try searching the full property address in quotes. Sometimes you'll find property listing history, permit records, news coverage, or business filings that name the owner. For commercial properties, you might find the LLC name on a business website or Google Maps listing.
Public databases like Realtor.com and Redfin show listing history, and some include assessor data. Whitepages and similar people-search sites sometimes surface relevant information, though quality varies.
Limitation: This method works best for properties owned by individuals. If an LLC or trust owns the property, Google won't get you far. Move to Method 5.
A large share of investment properties are owned by LLCs, trusts, corporations, or other legal entities. When your assessor search returns "123 Main Street LLC" instead of a person's name, you need a different approach.
Every state maintains a Secretary of State business entity database, and most are searchable online for free. Search the entity name and you'll typically find the registered agent, the business address, and in many states the names of the members or managers.
To find your state's business entity database, search "[state] Secretary of State business entity search."
Tracing the entity: Some LLCs are deliberately structured to obscure ownership — the registered agent is an attorney, and the members are listed as another LLC. In these cases, you may need to trace through multiple layers. Wyoming and Delaware have especially opaque LLC laws. Nevada is similar.
Pro tip: Even if the state records don't list individual names, the business address on the registration is often the owner's home or office. That address may already be in the assessor's system for another property they own outright.
When other methods fail, or when you want to avoid the complexity of tracking down contact info, send a letter to the property address marked "Current Occupant" or "Property Owner."
This sounds old-fashioned. It works.
If the owner lives at the property, they'll receive it. If it's a rental, the tenant may forward it or the owner may receive it at the property's forwarding address. For vacant properties, the USPS will forward mail to the owner's address on file if they've set up forwarding.
Keep your letter short, professional, and non-threatening. Identify yourself as a licensed real estate agent, briefly explain your interest in the property, and give them an easy way to respond — phone, email, or a simple website form. Don't make it feel like a form letter.
Why this still works: Most agents and investors blast the same digital campaigns to the same lists. A handwritten or high-quality printed letter stands out. And for a seller who isn't ready to list publicly, a low-pressure personal letter is often more effective than a cold call.
For complex ownership situations — multiple owners, contested title, unclear chain of ownership, or high-value transactions — a title company is your most reliable resource.
Title companies maintain their own property records databases and can run a title search to identify all owners of record, all liens, and any encumbrances on a property. This is standard practice before any real estate closing, but you can request a preliminary title search before you're even in contract.
Many title companies will run an ownership and encumbrance search as a professional courtesy for agents they work with regularly. It's worth building these relationships — title reps are a genuine resource for data you can't get anywhere else.
This method is overkill for routine prospecting. But for a high-value off-market opportunity where you want to be certain about the ownership picture before investing serious time, it's the right call.
Finding the owner is step one. Making contact is step two. Here's how to do it right.
Direct mail: Personalized letters and postcards are the most compliant, least invasive form of outreach. They also have decent response rates when the message is relevant to the owner's situation. Services like BatchLeads integrate list-building with direct mail fulfillment.
Phone outreach: If you have a phone number, be aware of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). The TCPA restricts unsolicited calls and texts, especially to cell phones. Before running any phone outreach campaign, consult with a real estate attorney to ensure your practices are compliant. This is not optional — TCPA violations carry real penalties.
Door-knocking: For occupied properties, a respectful in-person visit can be highly effective. Keep it brief, be transparent about who you are and why you're there, and leave a card. Don't push — you're opening a door, not closing a deal.
Whichever method you use, the goal is to start a conversation, not a transaction. The best deals come from owners who trust you before they need you. Finding them and reaching out correctly is how you build that pipeline.
If you want more lead generating advice and tips, visit our career courses. You get certified to showcase your expertise and the knowledge of proven methods to building successful careers.
Congratulations, you have buyers!
They’re motivated and excited to go house hunting. Before you just pile everyone in a car and hit the ground running, take a moment.
You want to do this the right way.
What’s the biggest secret to success in real estate? Being prepared! So, how do you prepare for buyers to be shown properties?
There are a few things you need to consider to make the process more seamless and convenient.
We’re going to discuss the 9 tips to help you effectively show properties.
Since August 17 2024, every REALTOR® must have a written buyer-representation agreement in place before any in-person or live virtual showing. The form clarifies compensation, agency duties, and how you’ll work together, keeping you compliant and transparent from the very first tour.
Before you take your clients out to preview homes, do the research. Research the properties the day before taking your clients out to ensure that you have the latest listings.
If you research these properties too far in advance, these homes may have already been sold.
Especially if it’s in an area that is high in demand.
You don’t want to disappoint your clients by presenting any properties that are no longer available. Not being prepared will leave your buyer uncertain that you are a capable and professional real estate agent.
Make sure you know the route to the properties. How embarrassing would it be to get lost on your way there?
Do a test run.
It’s a good idea to drive the routes to all the listings the day before you show the property to your clients. If there is construction or an unforeseen road closure you can prepare to alter your route.
It makes it easier for when the time comes and proves that you are an area specialist.
Use the navigation on your phone or in your car to plan the order that you’ll be seeing the homes. It will maximize how many properties you can see in one day and be more time-efficient.
If you are not taking your client in your car, you can share the directions with them.
Prepare your buyer’s packet in advance—ideally share it through a digital portal such as your MLS Client Portal or HomeSnap so both of you can see live listing updates on any device. If your client prefers paper, you can still print a copy, but lead with the digital version for real-time accuracy.
The buyer packet is a list of all the properties that you will preview that day. It will list all the pertinent information about each property. This includes the price, how many bedrooms and bathrooms, and the square footage.
Your buyer can take notes directly on their packet. If they are viewing multiple homes on one day, this will make it easy for your buyer to remember what they may have liked or disliked about each of the properties.
It’s important to keep safety in mind for both you and your client. Make it a habit to announce yourself when entering a property. Don’t assume that no one is home, even if you ring the doorbell or knock and no one answers.
There may be instances where someone may still be on the property at the time of your arrival. Announcing your presence will make sure you don’t alarm anyone or take them by surprise.
This will also help you avoid any awkward encounters.
While not common, occasionally a transient or homeless person can be in the property. Especially if the home has been on the market for a while and is known to be vacant. The practice of announcing yourself will ensure your safety.
Most listings now use Bluetooth-enabled Supra® iBox BT LE or SentriKey® lockboxes that open with the eKEY® or SentriKey® mobile app, logging every entry automatically. Listing agents can also issue single-use codes to appraisers or contractors for secure, trackable access.
Typically, a real estate agent will sync their phone to a lockbox so they can put in their pin. Although this will depend on the type of lockbox being used. Sometimes the listing agent will require an additional code to gain access, so be prepared.
It is very unprofessional when you can’t open the lockbox to retrieve the house key. Make sure you are thoroughly reading the property showing instructions and get all the information ahead of time.
In general, be sure that everything you are using to conduct your real estate business is working. Whether it’s your lockbox, your cell phone, or your car be as prepared as you can for a trouble-free experience.
It’s important to shift your focus once you enter the property. You don’t need to be a salesman once you’re in the house. Let the house sell itself! Let your client form their own first impression on whether it will be a good fit for them.
Instead, give your client advice and your opinions on the home based on what you know they are looking for. Again, buying a home can be a very emotional experience. Many buyers may have trouble determining if a particular home will suit their family.
Be attentive to their comments and assist them with their decision. This can also help you identify other properties if you need to do another round of previewing homes. After all, that’s what you’re there for.
While it’s important to make sure that your buyer takes their time while previewing the home, sometimes they will tend to linger in one area of the house.
There is no need to rush them, but provide a gentle reminder to keep them moving from one room to another. You want to make sure they are leaving themselves enough time to see the rest of the house. Remember, you’re on a schedule and it is important to be, and stay, on time.
If you are seeing multiple homes in one day, it may be helpful to estimate how much time can be spent in each home. This way you can remind your buyers as well during each appointment.
Before you leave, make sure the property is left exactly how you found it when you arrived.
For example, a popular area for buyers is the kitchen. It is not uncommon for buyers to open and close items to check on their condition. Make sure all the cabinets and drawers are closed. If they opened the refrigerator, make sure that the door was closed properly.
Do a sweep of the entire house. Make sure if any items were picked up, that they were placed back in their original position. Check that if any windows, room doors, or fences were opened that they are now closed and secure.
After you’ve shown all the properties, take the time to sit with your clients. This is an opportunity to discuss the properties they have seen. Review the notes that your client took to understand what they liked and didn’t like.
You may find that your buyer has zeroed in on the perfect property and is ready to call it “home.” There is no need to hesitate if they are interested in making an offer. Always have a copy of the contract available with you to get the process started.
This is especially important if the property is in high demand and has other interested buyers.
Remind clients that while inventory has improved to 1.53 million homes—about a 4.7-month supply—in June 2025, it’s still shy of the six-month “balanced” level, so desirable listings move fast.
If they weren’t interested in any of the properties that were shown to them on that day, there is no need to worry. Purchasing a home is a huge decision and it may be necessary to take your clients out to preview homes more than once.
Be proactive and schedule a new time to preview more homes.
Buying a home is not only a big investment financially, but emotionally. So, it’s no surprise that previewing homes has the potential to turn into a stressful ordeal. Not only for both your buyer, but for you. You can avoid this with a little preparation.
A lot of a buyer’s worry and emotion tend to come from not knowing what to expect or not being in control of the situation. Address those concerns by informing your buyer about the process and arming them with information.
By following these 9 tips for showing property, you can be a more efficient and effective real estate agent. Your buyer will feel they are incapable and reassuring hands. This will lead to happy buyers becoming happy homeowners.
Having a career in real estate can be rewarding and exciting. In real estate, your earning potential is limitless, and being your own boss will give you a lot of financial freedom. Being a real estate agent starts with getting your real estate license.
But before you jump in, let's talk about some steps you can take beforehand to ensure you will become a successful real estate agent.
Knowing what to expect and having a plan is paramount to your success. Being prepared will help lay down a solid foundation for your future career and create a nice transition. Let’s go over the top 7 things to do BEFORE you get a real estate license.
Start by building your database. Out of all things we will be discussing, this is the most crucial of the top 7. Why? Because your database is where all of your potential business will be coming from. A database is built from everyone you know, that you’ve met or haven’t met, or that you know of or knows of you.
If there is one thing you should do before you get your real estate license, it's this.
The easiest way to build your database is by starting with the people you know. Also called your “sphere of influence” or SOI. This means adding people to your databases like friends, family, people at your place of worship, and parents and teachers from the PTA meeting.
Think about adding everyone you meet and know from networking and social interest groups as well. For instance, people from the bowling league and the softball team. Think about everyone you have contact with, like your hairdresser or dry cleaners.
Don’t forget to share with everyone that you’ll be getting into the real estate field! Let them know that soon you will be there to help them with all of their real estate needs or questions. Plant that seed that you will be their top real estate resource.
You may be asking yourself where you should be putting all these contacts. Don’t overthink it. You don’t have to invest in anything fancy right away. Your database can be a simple spreadsheet or the “contacts” area within your email system.
Keep in mind that growing your database will be an ongoing process. But starting this process early makes the difference in how soon you get your first client when you get your real estate license. The more people in your database means increasing your odds of capturing more potential business in the future.
When you your real estate license, you have the option of doing residential sales or commercial real estate. Although each sector will allow you to work with buyers and sellers, there are a few differences between the two, such as training and day-to-day practice.
For instance, residential real estate is a good choice if you enjoy connecting with people on a personal level. When practicing in this sector, the focus is more on knowing the demographics of an area and being more hands-on with your client.
The focus of commercial real estate is primarily for investment. This sector is great for people who enjoy analyzing properties for their profitability and dealing with data, such as statistics. Transactions in commercial real estate are usually more complex and time-consuming than in residential but yield higher commissions due to price points.
There are other factors to consider, so do a little research before getting a real estate license to see if you would prefer one over the other.
Let’s be clear, “to brand” yourself is not coming up with a great logo. That’s marketing, which is important too, but let’s focus on developing your brand. Simply put, your brand is how people will instinctively feel about you and the service you’re providing.
The best way to develop your brand is to start thinking about how you want to be perceived in real estate. Fun and personable? Straightforward and no-nonsense? Do you want to be known as an “expert” in a specific area? As you know, there are many people in the real estate field, and developing your brand will help you stand out from the competition.
This will be important because, when you get licensed, you don’t want to be a secret agent. Have a social media presence, and remember to share with everyone that you are in real estate.
Being financially prepared before you start practicing real estate is vital. Why? Because you don’t know how long it will take to get your first deal. Typically it can take upwards of 3-6 months before you receive your first commission check. Create a reserve of your living expenses during this time so you can focus on your new career and not your bills.
Other fixed expenses that you can plan for will be the costs associated with being a real estate agent. These include joining a Board of Realtors (inclusive of C.A.R. and N.A.R. dues) and a Multiple Listing Service where you can search for properties.
Yearly, you can expect to pay an average of about $1000 for all these expenses, depending on which Board or MLS you join. When you start practicing real estate, these fees are usually paid immediately, so be proactive and have the funds ready.
Start thinking now on whether you want to work solo or on a team. Both have pros and cons, but one is not better than the other. You simply have to evaluate the benefits to decide which works best for you.
If you are self-motivated and confident, working solo is the way to go. It will allow you to make your own schedule, answer to yourself, and when you earn a commission, it won't be shared with team members. If the idea of handling all aspects of your business on your own gets you excited, then working solo is a good choice for you.
As exciting as it may be to be starting your new career in real estate, perhaps you feel that you’ll need some support. Being part of a team will give you stability and structure. You may not get as much of the commission when you close a deal but being on a team means you will get handed leads, have accountability, and have someone there to keep you on track.
Where you decide to hang your real estate license can really make a difference. Training, agent support, and in-house services like marketing and escrow will vary from brokerage to brokerage. More importantly, so will the energy. Remember that a brokerage is still made up of people, and you want to make sure that you are comfortable with the vibe of the office.
When you are interviewing offices, take that into consideration. A brokerage that has great positive energy not only will inspire you but will keep you motivated. You will want to be at the office, which means you’re more likely to take advantage of all the services.
So, remember this when it comes down to choosing a brokerage: if all things are equal, base your decision on the office vibe and the people want to surround yourself with.
We’ve all heard the great saying, “You can learn a lot from your mistakes.” But, in this case, we want to flip it. Like we discussed earlier, there are many real estate agents in the field.
Watch the ones that are doing it right!
Take note of what successful real estate agents are doing so you can implement the same strategies and tactics. Watch what they are doing on social media regarding content and posts. If you have received print marketing or emails from a real estate agent that really made an impression, use that and make it your own.
Researching the competition before you are licensed will help you get a leg up in your success as a real estate agent. Keeping up with it after you're licensed, will help with your continued success.
There you have it! Having a plan and being prepared is the best way to succeed in real estate. Doing these 7 things before you get a real estate license is a great way to prepare for an exciting career. So, remember to be proactive, have a positive mindset, and start laying down the foundation for your future career in real estate.
What else would you do BEFORE getting licensed that would get you more prepared? Share it with us!
Most new agents quit within two years, and almost none of them quit because the licensing exam was too hard. They quit because nobody told them what the job actually looks like before they spent the money.
Here are the 10 things to know before becoming a real estate agent, the honest version, so you can decide with your eyes open.
Your first deals will come from people you already know, so start your contact list today. A CRM, or client relationship management system, is the database where agents track every contact, conversation, and follow-up.
Your hairdresser, your old coworkers, your kid's coach: every contact is a potential client or a referral source. Agents who start their CRM during their pre-licensing course walk into week one with a pipeline. Agents who don't spend months catching up.
A real estate license doesn't come with customers. There's a saying in this business: you're unemployed until you have a client, because nobody pays you to hold a license. You get paid to close transactions.
New agents find clients through their sphere, open houses, door knocking, and follow-up. Established agents get found through referrals. Your job in year one is to become an established agent as fast as possible.
A written business plan is the difference between working your business and waiting for it. Yours should name your target client, your lead sources, your monthly activity goals, and the numbers you'll track.
It doesn't need to be long. One page you actually follow beats 20 pages you never open.
As an agent, you're an independent contractor running your own business, which means freedom over your hours and full responsibility for everything else. Taxes, marketing, scheduling, expenses: they're all yours now.
If that excites you more than it scares you, that's a good sign.
Agents earn commission on closed transactions, not a salary, and since the 2024 NAR settlement, the amount is whatever you and your client negotiate in writing. More closings, more income. No closings, no income.
That cuts both ways: unlimited ceiling, unpredictable floor. The agents who thrive build habits that produce transactions on purpose instead of by accident.
Since August 17, 2024, buyer agents must have a signed written buyer-representation agreement before the first home tour, and commissions are fully negotiable. This came out of the National Association of Realtors' $418 million antitrust settlement, and it changed the job in four ways:
That last one matters most. Agents who can clearly state what they do for their fee win in this environment. If you're learning the business now, you're learning it the right way from day one.
Keep 4 to 6 months of living expenses saved before going full time. Commission income takes months to start flowing, and there are real costs to launch an agent career: licensing, association dues, MLS access, and marketing.
According to NAR's member profile data, agents with two years of experience or less have reported median gross income around $8,100 a year. (Verify the current figure before publishing.) That number isn't a reason to stay out. It's a reason to start with reserves or keep part-time income while you ramp up. Much of real estate happens on evenings and weekends anyway.
The fastest way to fail is to become a secret agent. If your own network doesn't know you sell real estate, you've cut off your cheapest and warmest source of business: word of mouth.
Put it in your social bios. Mention it in conversation. Wear the name tag. Referrals only happen when people know what you do.
Markets shift, laws change, and the agents who keep learning keep earning. Continuing education isn't a renewal chore, it's how you stay sharp enough to answer the questions clients are scared to ask.
Still deciding if the career fits? Our honest breakdown of the pros and cons of being a real estate agent is the companion read to this article.
Your clients are making the biggest purchase of their lives, and they pay a premium for an agent who acts like it. Slow responses plant one thought in a client's head: is my agent in this for me or for the check?
Flexible schedule doesn't mean optional availability. If you can't put clients first during a transaction, the referrals that build careers won't come.
Becoming an agent is worth it if you want income tied to effort instead of a salary cap, and you can survive the slow start. Over 3 million people hold active real estate licenses in the U.S., (verify against ARELLO data) but the ones who build real careers share the habits above: a database, a plan, reserves, and relentless follow-up.
Hard work doesn't guarantee success in real estate. But the absence of it guarantees failure.
Know the 10 realities, then decide. If you read this list and feel more ready than rattled, that's your answer.
Your first step is the licensing course. Find your state's pre-licensing course and start building that database while you study.
To become a real estate agent in California, you must obtain a real estate license.
In this article, I will tell you the 5-steps you must take to get your RE license. Also, I've included frequently asked questions that students have asked me. Let's jump in.
To become a real estate agent in California, complete 135 hours of DRE-approved pre-licensing courses, pass the state licensing exam, and activate your license under a sponsoring broker. The whole process usually takes about five to six months.
In California, you can get your license in 5 steps:
That’s it! Once you complete all 5 steps, you’re an active agent ready to launch your real estate career. Now, let's examine each step deeper so you understand exactly what to do next.
To get a California salesperson license, ensure you meet the following requirements:
The Department of Real Estate (DRE) created these requirements to maintain the real estate industry's integrity.
If you are not a U.S. citizen, you can still become a real estate agent in California. Once you meet these basic requirements, it's time to move onto step 2.
You must enroll in a DRE accredited school. This is to complete the required pre-licensing education.
Every accredited RE school provides the same real estate courses. Although, they teach them differently. The Department of Real Estate (DRE) approves these salesperson pre-licensing courses. All students must complete 3 courses:
The DRE now requires every Real Estate Practice course to include a dedicated fair-housing component that explains federal and state anti-discrimination laws and an interactive role-play in which you alternate between the consumer and the agent.
The goal is to help future licensees recognise implicit bias and provide equal service to every client. Be sure your school’s certificate clearly states that you completed the “Fair Housing/Implicit Bias” standard—otherwise the DRE will not accept it with your exam application.
The elective courses include:
For over 10 years, US Realty Training has helped thousands of students complete their DRE-approved courses and move through the licensing process with less stress. Our goal is simple: make it easier to finish your coursework, stay on track, and feel ready for the next step.
When you complete a course, you will receive a certificate of completion. This certificate is proof that you have passed your course from an accredited institution.
Students must complete all 3-courses within 1-year of their enrollment date to be eligible for the state exam.
Once you collect all 3-course certificates, you can apply for the exam.
To apply for the California real estate exam, you must submit an application including:
You can apply for the exam online through the DRE's eLicensing portal. Create an account and submit the documentation from the list above – all online.
Below is a video on how to submit your application. I recommend that you watch it (or save it for when you get to this step in the future!)
Part of the application process is a live scan background check. This background check reviews your background for any criminal history.
If you have a criminal history, the best thing you can do is discuss it with the DRE. They will decide whether or not your history disqualifies you from becoming a real estate agent. If you have a felony, you risk facing a ban on becoming an agent.
This doesn't mean all felonies immediately disqualify you.
Most delays don’t happen because you did something “wrong.” They happen because the application is missing something small — and the DRE can’t move forward until it’s fixed.
After you submit your application, the DRE reviews it for approval. Once you’re cleared, you’ll log back into eLicensing to pick your exam date.
Once your application is approved, you’ll schedule your exam through DRE eLicensing. Here’s how scheduling works (so you know what to expect).
Once you submit your Salesperson Exam Application, the DRE has to process and approve it before you can pick a test date. This is the part that trips people up—your exam isn’t scheduled the moment you apply.
Here’s the typical flow:
Quick tip: If your first choice isn’t available, don’t assume you’re stuck. New appointments open up when other test-takers reschedule, so it’s worth checking back regularly—especially if you’re trying to test sooner.
The state exam is rigorous. It's 3 hours long and consists of 150 multiple choice questions. You must pass with a 70% or higher.
Studying for the exam can get overwhelming. Reviewing notes, watching YouTube videos, taking freebie practice exams will only get you so far. Not to mention, it's hard to organize your resources. Our California exam prep guide is a free download that puts the testable material in one place.
We've create an in-depth guide on the best way to study for the real estate exam. Use it to make studying easy and pass the first try!
If you fail, you can always retake the exam. But, retaking the exam can become expensive. I always recommend that people join our exam prep and crash course program.
This is the best way to make studying easy and effective. We've already helped thousands of students pass the salesperson exam in our program.
The final step to becoming a real estate agent in California is to sign with a brokerage. After passing the state exam, the DRE will email you a copy of your real estate license. Once you sign with a brokerage, you're an official real estate agent!
This is just like finding a job. You will have to apply, interview, and sign the paperwork. It might sound hard, but it's easier than it sounds. Agents are always in demand at larger brokerages.
Getting an interview with a real estate brokerage is simple. All you have to do is contact the front desk, let them know you're licensed, and you want to join a brokerage.
If you need help getting an interview, contact our student advisors. They'll put you in contact with our brokerage partners.
The following are the most common questions I receive about getting a real estate license in California.
A real estate license, also known as a salesperson license, is a state government certification that grants the holder the legal authority to represent clients in the home buying or selling process. This license is obtained by following the steps above.
The fastest you can get your license is in 135 hours. In other words, about 8 weeks.
Compared to other careers, this is a low barrier of entry. Someone can go from knowing nothing about the industry to representing high-end clients in about 6-months.
That’s impressive!
After you complete your schooling and apply for the real estate exam, you must wait for the DRE to schedule your test date. This takes about 3-months. During this time, we recommend studying as much as possible.
| Step | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Complete 135-Hour Course | 3 – 4 months |
| Prepare & Submit Combo Application | 1 day |
| DRE Processing & Background Check | 4 – 6 weeks |
| Schedule & Pass State Exam | 1 – 2 weeks |
| Total Time to License | ≈ 5 – 6 months |
A real estate license in California costs between $550 to $800. This list itemizes the fees and costs associated with your real estate license:
If you get your license, there are tons of schools you can pick. Each one has its own program price.
Of course, we recommend enrolling in our program. We offer competitive prices and provide the most trusted, comprehensive program in the entire state.
You’ll also need to submit proof of completing the required pre-licensing education (DRE notes you must provide official transcripts or copies of official transcripts when applying).
You can submit your application online through DRE eLicensing or by mail:
Most people should apply for exam + license together using RE 435—it’s the simplest option and helps you avoid an extra application step after you pass.
Choose exam-only if you want to take the exam first and apply for the license later.
In California, licenses must be renewed every 4 years. The renewal process includes:
If you don't renew a salesperson license by the deadline, it becomes inactive. If that happens, you will have to reapply for a new license.
California salespersons should regularly check the DRE's website for updated information on license renewal requirements.
In California, a felon may be able to obtain a real estate license. Depending on the severity of their criminal record, authorities may bar them from practicing real estate.
The (DRE) considers each application on a case-by-case basis. They may deny a license if the applicant's criminal history includes fraud, embezzlement, or theft.
If you think your criminal history may impact your eligibility, consult with the DRE before starting the licensing process.
Getting your real estate license in California can feel overwhelming. The hardest part is passing the exam. But, with proper preparation, it's possible.
This requires you to understand common practices in the industry. With that said, the real estate licensing exam has around 53% passing rate.
Yes, your license can become suspended or revoked. This happens when you break the code of ethics. When someone suspends or revokes a license, that person can still reinstate it.
You may need to wait for the suspension period to end. You might also have to take some steps to request the revocation. You may have to undergo investigation and pay a fee.
You can many options in California. Of course, I'm biased when I say that you should pick our school. Many students agree we're the best option for pre-licensing education and exam prep.
US Realty Training has more reviews than any other real estate school in California. We offer better education, resources, and support for our students. Simply put, we're the most trusted program in California.
Real estate license reciprocity allows agents to transfer their license from one state to another. This means a licensed agent in one state can work as a licensed agent in another state without obtaining a new license.
California recognises no reciprocal licensing agreements. If you are a licensed agent in another state, you must go through the California's licensing process and pass the state exam.
After you get your license, make sure you do the following: First, find a brokerage where you can hang your license. All agents must join a brokerage before they can practice real estate.
Next join your local boards and get access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). This gives you the credentials as Realtor® and access all the local listings in your area.
Find your support team. Join a team, go solo, and find a mentor. Your brokerage is a great place to find the needed support.
You just need to start scheduling coffee dates with your sphere of influence. This is a great way to get quality, face-to-face time with your leads.
Picking your preferred real estate brokerage comes down to personal taste more than anything. Ensure the "vibe" of the brokerage fits your personality and your ambitions.
Also, consider the commission split. Some brokerages will offer a lower commission split because you are a new agent. Understand it may be worth it for some brokerages but don't discount your services too much.
Consider one important thing: training and mentorship. Find a brokerage that offers training and mentorship programs that helps their agents succeed. As a new agent, learning as much as you can is paramount.
A long, successful career consists of two things: education and training.
The best way to look up a license number is to use the free tool on the DRE website. You can enter the person's first name, last name, or number. This is a great way to find out if an agent has their up-to-date certification.
No! There are tons of ways you can make money with an RE license. Many students get their license and become property managers, teachers, or referral agents. They may even do it to as professional development or as an interesting project.
A real estate license helps you enter different fields and new careers. You can use it whenever the opportunity calls for it.
A license comes with a lot of benefits. We all know that real estate agents make a lot of money. They also get workplace freedom. They can choose to work from anywhere in the world – from the brokerage office, sofa, even at the beach.
Finally, this is a people-focused business. Meeting new and interesting people every day is exciting. You get to help them accomplish their dreams. Growing your network is a must – this job incentivizes you to be social.
Nothing feels better than helping a family move into their dream home. You have the ability to leave a massive imprint on the lives of the people you help.
If this sounds like something you would enjoy, then check out one of our free intro sessions. The intro session will show you what it’s like to work as a real estate agent and gives you a sneak peek of how our program works.
Some people find it advantageous to get their license to buy or sell their home. Here's why: you don't have to hire a real estate agent, you can do the work yourself, and you get a small commission check.
You can use the commission check to go toward the home payment or home sale. You can use it to pay for home improvements, like updating the exterior paint.
You can become a referral agent. Referral agents recommend clients to another agent and collect a small portion of the commission. This means you can help a friend or family member when they want to buy or sell a home. But at that point, you might as well represent them yourself.
How much agents make depends on three factors: frequency of home sales, the value of the homes sold, and the commission rate. In reality, there is no limit to how much money real estate agents make.
The average home value in California is around $700,000, which means you could earn $14,700 after selling it (given average 3% commission split and 70% brokerage split.)
$14,700 is a lot of money in one check. At that value, you only need 7 deals in one year to make $100,000. That's great!
Keep in mind that real estate agents and real estate brokers do not receive a salary or hourly wage. There area few brokerages that provide that, but make sure you read the fine print. You could cap your earning potential.
A career in real estate is best for those who enjoy working on their own terms. Simply deciding to become a real estate agent is easy. But, you need gusto to create a successful career.
A real estate career requires hard work and self-investment. The results are life-changing. By following these steps, you can enter a life-changing career.
If you're not careful, you can become a statistic—an agent who quits real estate within the first year. The last thing you want is to earn a real estate license just to leave the industry a few months into your career.
If you're unaware of the challenges that come with being new to real estate, it can happen to you.
The best way to prevent this is by understanding what to expect and learning some effective strategies to stay on track. These insights for new real estate agents cover what the job actually demands.
Here are 10 reasons why most new real estate agents fail in their first year and how you can avoid the same fate.
Real Estate lead generation is the lifeblood of your real estate business. If you're not diligently working to generate leads, you won't have any business. When you're new to real estate, you need to create opportunities from scratch.
How to Avoid It: Create a game plan. Decide who you'll contact—focus on niches like first-time homebuyers or renters, or network with investors. Determine how you'll generate leads, whether it's through cold calling, door knocking, or social media marketing. Consistent lead generation is key to building a thriving business. Also prepare a short script for your written buyer representation agreement—required before tours since Aug 17, 2024—and explain your value clearly when discussing compensation.
Most new agents begin by growing their business through people they already know, known as the "sphere of influence." While this is a great starting point, it's important to reach beyond this group if you want your career to progress.
How to Avoid It: Step out of your comfort zone. Make a habit of talking to new people wherever you are. Expanding your network and growing your database will help you build a steady flow of clients.
Real estate offers freedom—no boss, no set schedule. However, this freedom can easily lead to poor productivity if you lack discipline.
How to Avoid It: Practice good self-management by creating and following a schedule. Incorporate activities like lead generation, network building, and database growth into your daily routine. Time blocking and effective time management can help you achieve more in less time.
Some people enter real estate thinking it's all glamour, inspired by TV shows featuring agents selling multi-million dollar homes. However, if your motivation is simply to "make a lot of money" without a strong work ethic, real estate may not be the right career for you.
How to Avoid It: Know your "why." Understand why you wanted to start a career in real estate. If you genuinely want to help people and are willing to put in the work, you'll be more likely to succeed.
Many new agents run out of money in their first year because they fail to manage their finances properly. Budgeting is critical to staying in the game.
How to Avoid It: Lead with revenue. Avoid spending money on unnecessary items like paid leads. Set aside funds from your first deals to cover living expenses for the months ahead. Plan for variable compensation structures post-settlement. Commissions are negotiated off-MLS; some buyers may pay all or part of your fee. Budget for longer cycles and set aside funds from early closings.
One of the most common mistakes new agents make is not letting people know they're in real estate. Real estate is a numbers game—the more people who know what you do, the more opportunities you'll have.
How to Avoid It: Spread the word! Talk about your career with everyone you meet, use social media to promote yourself, and let your excitement show. Don’t be a "secret agent."
Goal setting gives you direction and helps you focus on the actions that lead you to success. Without clear goals, new agents often waste time and energy.
How to Avoid It: Set SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, instead of setting a vague goal like "make calls every day," set a SMART goal: "Make 25 cold calls a day to secure 1 appointment a week." This gives structure and clarity to your actions.
Fear of failure is common, but it can stop you from moving forward. Many new agents quit in their first year because the fear of rejection becomes overwhelming.
How to Avoid It: Understand that rejection is not personal. People aren't rejecting you—they're simply not ready to buy or sell at that moment. Separate yourself from the rejection, and keep pushing forward. True failure comes from inaction, not rejection.
Attitude is everything. A negative attitude can lead to giving up when challenges arise, while a positive attitude helps you stay motivated and engaged.
How to Avoid It: Embrace the entire process of becoming a successful real estate agent. Be "all in" when it comes to learning, training, and generating leads. A growth mindset will keep you focused and committed.
Self-doubt is another killer of real estate careers. When things get tough, new agents often start questioning their abilities.
How to Avoid It: Remember that tough times are part of the journey. Be confident in your training, skills, and knowledge—the very things that helped you get your real estate license in the first place. Combat self-doubt by focusing on the progress you make each day.
If you're not yet licensed, choosing the right real estate school can make all the difference. A strong foundation will help you launch your real estate career successfully.
How to Avoid It: Choose a real estate school that provides not only licensing courses but also ongoing support and training. For instance, US Realty Training offers experienced trainers who share real-world examples and act as unofficial mentors, helping you apply concepts effectively. Resources like US Realty Training's YouTube channel provide on-demand learning and valuable insights.
According to NAR’s 2025 Member Profile, the typical member closed 10 sides in 2024 with median gross income about $58,100—so pacing, pipeline, and budgeting matter.
Avoiding these common pitfalls can prevent you from becoming a statistic and set you up for an amazing first year in real estate. Knowing what challenges to expect is part of the battle; having the right tools to overcome them is what will set you apart.
Once a home buyer and seller have agreed on an offer, the real estate transaction enters the escrow period.
During this period, there are a few contingencies to clear before the parties close the sale.
On closing day the parties meet to sign formal documents to legally transfer the property.
The escrow agent expects the buyer to finance two fees at escrow. One fee is the closing cost and the other fee is the down payment.
Closing costs and down payments are conflated in a real estate transaction. In reality, they are different costs in the mortgage lending process.
In other words, the down payment and the closing cost are not the same.
Prospective buyers are expected to have the funds for both when they close on a home. The buyer’s agent educates their client on what to expect in the home buying process.
Therefore, that includes what they can expect to pay for the closing cost and down payment on a home.
Let’s take a look at which fees are associated with closing costs and down payments.
The closing costs for a sale are typically due once the seller accepts the buyer’s offer.
The buyer goes to the lender to complete the process or close the loan. At this point, the seller is required to pay closing costs. The closing costs of a home are various fees associated with the loan.
The closing costs usually amount to 2 – 5% of the purchase price. Setting aside 3% of the purchase price is a good amount to finance closing costs.
So, what are the closing costs when buying a home? Closing costs are the fees a party accrues throughout the transaction and must be paid on closing. Buyers can expect many of the following fees:
Most lenders will charge an origination fee, which covers the cost to open a loan.
Other associated loan fees include the document review and processing fees to cover the cost of assembling the documents for the mortgage application.
Lenders also charge underwriting fees to pay the underwriter for evaluating the mortgage loan application.
While companies charge different amounts for these fees, homebuyers can expect to pay around 1% of the home’s purchase price in loan fees.
The transfer of title is an important legal aspect of purchasing real estate.
Many lenders will require a title examination, or search of public records for any documents, liens, or judgments, to ensure that there are no impediments to the title transfer process.
Also, lenders will require that borrowers purchase a title insurance policy to protect the lender’s investment.
It is wise for homebuyers to obtain their own title insurance policy as well. During closing, the parties are expected to pay fees to the agent coordinating the closing process.
Mortgage lenders also expect buyers to pay some bills a couple of months ahead of the first payment.
On average, buyers are expected to pay the entire annual homeowner’s insurance premium at closing.
The average annual cost of homeowner’s insurance is $1000. But, buyers will also pay the interest that accrues between the loan closing and the first monthly mortgage payment.
This is why many closing days are scheduled for the end of the month – to cut down on the prepaid interest due at closing.
Real estate sales are subject to local and state taxes.
Many municipalities charge a real estate transfer tax when a property is transferred from one owner to another. Therefore, this tax is usually a percentage of the purchase price.
Similarly, recording fees are charged by the county clerk’s office to record the sale in the public record. But, property taxes are collected at closing as well.
The party who pays the closings cost is typically the buyer. However, buyers can request the seller to finance the closing costs. By doing this, the seller will give the buyer an incentive to buy the house. This doesn't always happen, but it is possible.
Whoever pays the closing on a home is outlined in the initial purchase agreement so, when the time comes, it's clear who pays what.
Mortgage companies expect buyers to put their own money down toward the loan at closing.
The down payment is separate from closing costs, but this payment is also due on closing day.
The amount of the down payment depends on the type of loan that the buyer and lender decided to use. Many people believe that they must have 20% of the home price as a down payment for a home loan.
This is a good general rule of thumb. But, the average down payment for first-time homebuyers is 6% of the purchase price. Also, there are common down payment home loans that require smaller payments.
Finding a down payment home loan is typical when buying a home. But, there are few types of home loan options that are available for home buyers.
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) began backing home loans for U.S. citizens in 1934 as a response to the Great Depression.
The goal was to increase access to homeownership and create construction jobs.
Today, FHA loans are a perfect option for buyers who have smaller down payments or average to below average credit scores.
The minimum down payment required for people with credit scores above 580 is 3.5% and 10% for those with lower credit scores.
VA (Veterans Affairs) loans are backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. VA loans were designed to assist veterans to transition to civilian life after World War II.
The government guarantees loan repayment for part of the amount if the borrower cannot make mortgage payments.
With this insurance for lenders, VA loans allow borrowers to secure home loans with no money down.
Today, veterans, active duty service members, and qualifying surviving spouses are eligible for these loans.
USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture) loans are another common loan option for homebuyers.
The aim of this loan program is to encourage rural development through home loans that support low and middle-income homebuyers in underdeveloped areas.
Down payments are not required with USDA home loans.
Many first-time homebuyers may not have a clear sense of what is involved in the mortgage loan process. As a buyer’s agent, you’ll excel if you understand the process and can expertly navigate your clients through it.
Remember that both the closing costs and the down payment are expected when the buyer is ready to close the loan.
The amount expected for the closing costs is approximately 3% and the percentage of the down payment depends on the type of loan the buyer chooses.
As an agent, when would you discuss closing costs and down payments with your buyers?
You want to become a real estate agent, but you don't like the financial risk involved.
When you go "all-in" on becoming a real estate agent, you put yourself at losing a lot of money. Whether it's investing in the start-up costs to get a license, investing in marketing material, or just paying rent, there's a ton of expenses in the industry and your paychecks could be few a far between.
Some people have all the luck. They have a nice little nest egg and are able to transition full time into being a real estate agent. Those people are able to sustain themselves for the coming months – no problem.
But you on the other hand, not so much. You might have a small saving (or none at all!) and you will might not be able to afford the financial risk involved. I get it!
Lucky for you, there's a solution that thousands of people rely on to become a real estate agent. This guarantees a steady flow of income while pursuing your career as an agent.
It's called: becoming a part time real estate agent. Yes, it's possible to do real estate part time! This article will show you how to become a part time real estate agent and give you insights on how you can earn like a full time agent.
But, first, let's talk about whether or not becoming a part time agent is right for you.
Becoming a part time real estate agent isn't right for everyone. There's a few things that all part time agents must commit to. Such as:
Often times, working 20-hours a week isn't the hard part for part time agents. The hard part is being available and prioritizing your client above all else. They are making their biggest investment and want someone who will make them #1.
How you would feel if you were buying a house and your agent kept telling you they can't make it the home tour because they're working their other job? Exactly.
That's why it's important to know that hours invested is easy. It's hours available that's hard. This is why most people end up becoming a referral agent.
A simple alternative to the active life of an agent, referral agents work on referrals only. They refer a client to another agent and collect a small percentage of the commission in return.
Referral agents can let the leads come to them. If they have a friend, family member, or an acquaintance looking to buy or sell a home, the referral agent can recommend them to their business partner. Their business partner will do all the heavy lifting and give you a small percentage of the paycheck. Easy!
There's also a secret perk that nobody ever tells you about referral agents.
Referral agents still pay the normal four‑year DRE renewal fee and complete 45 hours of continuing education, but they save thousands by skipping local REALTOR® association and MLS dues.
California law requires your license to remain active and to be “hung” with a supervising broker in order to receive a referral commission — an inactive or expired license cannot legally be paid. Referral payments must be made broker‑to‑broker and only to licensed individuals.
You can work your full‑time job and, when a lead comes your way, it's an easy paycheck. Just make sure you partner with someone who you can trust.
To become a part time real estate agent, you have to fulfill the Department of Real Estate’s requirements.
This goes for people who want a side income, to get referral fees, or to collect commission from representing themselves.
In other words, you have to get a license and sign with a brokerage.
To become an agent or referral agent, you need a real estate license.
You become a legitimate, legal agent when you receive your license. This shows everyone that you have the training to represent them in a transaction.
So, if you work part time, want a new side hustle, or want to get a referral fee, you need a real estate license.
Here’s how you get your real estate license:
That’s it!
The Department of Real Estate mails your real estate license to your home address after you pass the exam.
That last thing you need to do is sign with a real estate brokerage.
The real estate brokerage is your workplace hub. This is where you get training, legal resources, and even your morning joe.
Brokerages give you resources because they invest in you.
So, telling them your intention is vital during the brokerage interview. This is where you tell them why you want to become a real estate agent.
Becoming a part time agent looks different for everyone. That’s why you should tell them that you want to be one of the following:
A good brokerage accepts you. So, if at first you don’t find one, don’t give up hope!
Now comes the hard part. How do you sell real estate part time?
Selling real estate in a part time worker’s hours is a challenge. You balance and track many moving pieces during your job. 20-hours will go by faster than you realize.
With a structure change and priority realignment, you can balance the job. Here’s how you can sell real estate part time:
When you work part time, you should aim to make the most of what you have. Let’s see how this is possible.
The bulk of your work lies in lead generation. This is the core of your job as a part time real estate agent.
Without generating new leads for your business, people won’t know about your service and you will have no new clients.
So, when you focus on lead generation, you spend more time creating business for yourself. Ultimately, that leads to more commission checks.
You should spend the majority of your hours finding new clients. When you start earning more clients, you should still find time to lead generate.
But, be aware of your other responsibilities.
That’s how we get into…
Time management is an art.
Knowing where to focus your time and for how long is a skill that even long term agents have a hard time mastering.
During your week, be realistic with your goals and how you manage your time.
The best way to manage your time is with calendars and to-do lists. This helps you identify what needs completing and when.
When you work with clients, you do paperwork, follow-up calls, commuting, home prepping and so much more. So, creating time for each task during the week is important.
For you, time is a limitation. 20-hours isn’t much to work with. That’s why you have to be intentional with your time investment.
For most real estate agents, focusing on quantity is a great strategy. That’s the case for part time agents too–especially for lead generating.
But, when you work, prioritize quality hours as opposed to quantity hours.
In other words, don’t dilly-dally.
How you spend your time is vital to your success. Focus on the quality leads, the quality clients, and the quality real estate.
Therein lies the key to your success.
When you have limited hours, you need to use it wisely.
As a part time real estate agent, you will need to figure out how to create a day-to-day schedule that lets you be flexible. The reason why is because you will want to work when your client is available.
As mentioned earlier, if you're working your first job or you're traveling when your client wants to tour a house, they will feel disrespected and second rate.
This is why you need to hone in on your schedule. Full time agents have flexibility to drop everything and help their client. Part time agents need to be able to do the same.
People who become a part time agent will do it for their family, friends, or for themselves. This way, they have more flexibility with their client and their own time. Don't forget to prioritize your client, it could cost you the sale!
Now, you might be wondering if working as a part time real estate agent is worth it.
If you’re going to work hard in a short period of time, is your time investment worth the compensation?
That’s a great question.
How much you make depends on how much you sell.
Real estate agents get paid a percentage of the final sale price. In California, that percentage now averages about 2.5 %–3 % per side (2.57 % buyer‑side statewide in 2025).
The brokerage splits this commission with the agent — 60/40 is still common for new or part‑time agents, though splits can range 50/50 to 70/30 depending on the firm.
So, to keep it simple, let’s say a part‑time real estate agent closed a deal on a $1,000,000 house. Using a 2.57 % buyer‑side fee and a 60/40 split, the brokerage would cut that agent a commission check for roughly $15,420 (2.57 % × $1,000,000 = $25,700 gross; agent keeps 60 %).
That’s pretty good money for a part‑time job. It’s even better if being a real estate agent is your side‑income job.
A real estate license is your opportunity to get a big check when the opportunity arises.
In other words, you can choose to be an agent when you want. If you want to represent when you have a friend or family member searching for a new home, you can.
You can work a full‑time job and only represent people in your immediate network.
Some part‑time agents only refer clients to other real estate agents.
They spend their time lead‑generating and passing the nitty‑gritty to someone else. In return, they get a small percentage of the other agent’s commission check.
That percentage is usually negotiated around 25 % of the gross commission, with 20–25 % common in California.
Let’s look at our previous example’s commission. If a referral agent recommended that agent to their client, the referral agent would make about $3,084–$3,855 (20–25 % of the $15,420 net commission in our example).
That’s pretty good for finding one client. Some part‑time real estate agents want to only prospect. Remember, your license must stay active and the fee is paid broker‑to‑broker—California law bars compensation to inactive licensees.
By doing so, they can still make a great commission check.
Becoming a part time real estate agent isn’t easy.
Being a real estate agent is like running your own business. So, when you work part time, you run a business part time.
Let’s look at how hard it is to make a part time job in real estate work.
As a part time real estate agent, your job consists of lead generating. That’s how you draw in business.
A prime method of generating new clients is through your sphere of influence.
This is where most part time agents start. They either know someone or know someone who knows someone who is buying or selling property.
When the connection happens, you are one warm meeting from your new client.
Some part time agents will only work within their sphere of influence. So, they could work a full time job while they keep their real estate license in their back pocket. Then, when they hear a friend or family member wants to buy or sell, they can lend a hand.
This passive method of lead generating works for you.
Cracking the code on working part time as a real estate agent is tricky. It requires flexibility and prioritizing your client. But, if you're able to figure out a schedule and routine that works for you, you'll be able to work less and earn more than most other agents.
Remember to focus your time on what works and what will lead you to the next paycheck. There's a lot of unimportant tasks that can make us feel productive, but contribute little to our overall business.
If all else fails, shorten the sphere of people you work with to friends, family, and yourself. At the end of the day, you can always fall back on becoming a referral agent.
A real estate agent helps people buy, sell, and rent property, and guides them through the whole transaction. They represent a buyer or a seller, market listings, coordinate inspections and appraisals, negotiate offers, and manage the paperwork through closing. Most work on commission under a licensed broker.
That's the short version. The real job is wider than showing houses. Here's exactly what a real estate agent does, day to day, for buyers and for sellers, plus how the role compares to a REALTOR and a broker.
A real estate agent's job changes depending on which side of the deal they represent. A buyer's agent helps someone find and buy a home. A listing agent helps someone price, market, and sell one. The table below shows the split.
What they doFor a buyerFor a sellerGet startedLearn the buyer's goals, budget, and must-havesRun a comparative market analysis and set the list priceFind the dealSearch the MLS and tour homesStage, photograph, and market the listingThe offerWrite offers and run comparable salesReview offers and prepare countersNegotiationNegotiate price and repairsNegotiate terms and concessionsInspections and appraisalCoordinate them and explain the resultsRespond to repair requestsClosingTrack disclosures and deadlinesManage the closing paperwork
A few terms come up a lot. The MLS, or Multiple Listing Service, is the shared database agents use to list and find properties. A comparative market analysis (CMA) is an agent's estimate of a home's value based on recent nearby sales.
No two days look alike, but most of an agent's time falls into six buckets. The work behind one closing can stretch across weeks.
The constant across all of it is communication. You're the point person keeping buyers, sellers, and every third party moving in the same direction.
A real estate agent, a REALTOR, and a broker are not the same thing, though people use the words interchangeably. A REALTOR is a licensed agent who belongs to the National Association of Realtors and agrees to follow its Code of Ethics. A broker has extra training and can supervise agents or run a firm.
RoleWhat it takesMain jobReal estate agentA state licenseRepresents buyers and sellers, markets listings, manages contractsREALTORA state license plus NAR membershipThe same work as an agent, plus the NAR Code of EthicsBrokerExtra education plus a broker examCan supervise agents and run a brokerage
Real estate agents work from almost anywhere, splitting time between a home office, their brokerage, and the field. One morning you're at a kitchen table writing an offer, that afternoon you're hosting a showing across town.
Agents work under a licensed broker, but most run their schedules like their own business. That freedom is a big draw of the job, and it comes with the responsibility of managing your own time and pipeline.
The job rewards strong people skills paired with a working grasp of real estate law and contracts. You don't need to be a lawyer, but you do need to know enough to protect your client and spot a problem early.
The core knowledge every agent needs covers real estate law, contracts and disclosures, the loan process, and negotiation. You also carry a fiduciary duty, the legal obligation to act in your client's best interest ahead of your own. Sharp local market knowledge ties it together, since clients lean on you to price and compare homes with confidence.
You become a real estate agent in four steps, and you don't need a college degree to do it. Every state sets its own rules, but the path is the same nationwide: meet your state's basic requirements, finish the pre-licensing courses, pass the licensing exam, and join a brokerage.
For the details, see our guides on how to get your real estate license and why you don't need a college degree to start. If you're still weighing it, read the honest pros and cons of being a real estate agent.
A real estate agent is part marketer, part negotiator, part project manager, and full-time advocate for the client. The work is varied, people-driven, and built on trust, and you can start without a degree or years of school.
Curious whether the job fits you? The best way to find out is to see the work behind the license. Start a free trial of US Realty Training's pre-licensing course and get a feel for the career before you commit a dime.
2026 Industry Snapshot: Real estate communication has officially entered the era of "Intelligence over Automation." While 94% of REALTORS® still rely on text messaging as their primary channel, 97% of top-producing agents now use AI-driven insights to personalize their outreach and predict client needs before the first call is even made.
Furthermore, video has become the industry's premier "trust builder," with video-integrated listings and agent introductions attracting 403% more inquiries than text-only profiles. In this fast-paced 2026 market, your ability to blend cutting-edge tech with a genuine human touch is what secures the listing.
People like to think that they are talking to the real you, and not a persona you are putting on for show or sales. Make sure you keep your interactions real and personable, and don’t overpower people in the conversation.
It’s also very important to be grateful - people like to think they are helping you. Showing your gratitude, even taking a moment in a phone conversation to express it, can lead to more positive results when interacting with people.
Nobody likes to be “ambushed” with a call or a slew of emails if you haven’t cleared it with them first. Try to keep your first few interactions low-pressure and friendly, and ask if you can get in touch with someone more.
Also, at the end of each interaction, ask your lead when the next best time is to get in touch with them. If they are a forgetful person, they might want to be contacted later that week - if they are a slow decision-maker, they may need a few weeks or a month. Let them dictate the schedule.
Many people tend to “listen” without really hearing what the other person is actually saying. They might be focused on who else is in the room, what other things they have to do, and more. It is important to make sure you listen actively when a client is speaking to you, and occasionally paraphrase their words back to them to ensure you are both on the same page.
Everyone likes to feel that they are being heard, so taking this step can really benefit your client interactions. Also, this tactic avoids any confusion mid-conversation if you are repeating their words and understanding them on your own. Good communication skills is key!
Before you dive into listings, ask each client how they want to hear from you—then stick to that channel. Some buyers feel most at ease texting quick questions during work hours, while downsizing retirees may prefer a scheduled voice call or detailed email recap.
“What’s the easiest way for me to keep you in the loop—quick texts, phone, or email?”
Record the answer in your CRM and tailor both frequency and tone:
Why it matters
Pro tip: revisit preferences at key milestones (offer, inspection, closing) to confirm nothing has changed; life events and stress levels can shift a client’s communication comfort zone.
Humans are not perfect creatures, yet salespeople often like to put up a veneer of perfection to show that everything is great. That’s a good tactic, but can sometimes come across as insincere. Make sure to communicate to your client that you are on their level, and that you are also an imperfect human that might not know everything.
For example, if you make a small mistake on the MLS listing when you first post the property, correct it, then take responsibility to it immediately and apologize. However, don’t berate yourself or allow your client to be mad at you - you are human and they should understand that you may make small mistakes sometimes.
If you know of an issue with a cracked slab or termite damage, definitely be honest to help out the buyers or sellers. Even though you may not want to be the bearer of bad news, honesty is always the best policy. Also, if sellers have a truly ugly home that would make it hard to sell, a little honesty can go a long way towards raising the selling price!
People will remember your honesty and help the next time they are doing a transaction, and trust capital goes a long way toward Earning Repeat Business. Always try to be honest during all your transactions for the best future results.
Ending every conversation on a positive note, no matter how short the interaction, is a great way for your sphere to associate you with positivity and happiness - an addictive combination (think emotional contagion)! When you end each conversation on a positive note, it also gives you a chance to talk to the person about following up with them.
Following up is crucial in the real estate industry, so never forget to follow each positive conversation with another one in an appropriate amount of time. Whether that’s an hour, a day, or even a year, make sure you follow up with a genuine, positive contact that reaffirms your upbeat attitude.
Being aware means staying up-to-date. There’s nothing wrong with doing a little online research on your client’s recent activities before picking up the phone - in fact, nowadays it’s almost expected! Check Facebook and other venues to see if someone’s children recently graduated, if they recently got a new car, or other large life events that you can use as a jumping-off point for your conversation.
This quality will also contribute in part to being genuine, as your interactions will be much more authentic when speaking about someone’s passions (their children, their hobbies, etc). As you gain more and more skill doing this, it won’t be long before you can redirect the conversation to real estate and push your value while still catching up with them!
Speed matters: 59 % of home-sellers hire the first agent they contact, and 71 % of buyers interview only one agent before choosing who to work with.
One of the best ways to impress your clients is to be attentive to when your clients reach out. This is less about how you talk to clients but when you talk to clients.
When real estate agents respond quickly to their clients emails, messages, texts, phone calls, it leaves an unforgettable impression. That's because doing so shows that you care and you have everything under control.
At the end of the day, clients just want to feel like they are being taken care of.
Being direct and straight to the point does not leave any room for interpretation. In other words, there is less confusion on what is going on with the transaction or what you can provide for your clients.
Being direct with your clients shows that you know yourself and you have a plan.
You want to avoid beating around the bush or taking the long way to inform or explain something to your clients. If you do that, it could annoy or just flat out confuse people – not a good look for you.
So, always be direct, to the point, and most of all honest!
At the end of the day, you want to make sure that you're taking care of your clients. The best way to show them that you care and you have their best interest is by being clear, concise, direct, and honest with them. It also helps to give your clients up to date news and insights on what's happening the transaction.
When you do all of this, your clients will have a great experience with you. And, in turn, will result in repeated business. At the end of the day, that's how you build long term success in real estate.
You just got your license, and you're staring down a market full of agents with 20 years on you. So how do you market yourself as a real estate agent when you have zero closings to your name? You compete on the things experience can't buy.
Here's what you'll get out of this: a clear, honest playbook for standing out as a new agent. No fluff about "putting yourself out there." Specific moves you can make this week to win your first clients and build a name that sticks.
To market yourself as a new real estate agent, lead with what makes you different instead of trying to out-experience the veterans. You can't fake two decades in the business. You can out-hustle, out-care, and out-market the agent who's been coasting on the same five strategies since 2005.
Start with your unique selling proposition, the single, specific reason a client should choose you over every other agent in your area. Maybe you know one neighborhood block by block. Maybe you came from marketing and you build better listing campaigns. Maybe you answer your phone when it rings. Pick the thing that's true about you, say it out loud, and build your pitch around it.
A client should pick you because you bring focus, energy, and modern skills that busy veteran agents often don't. If you don't believe that, no client will either.
Confidence isn't arrogance. It's knowing your value and being able to say it in one sentence. Practice it until it sounds natural: who you are, who you help, and how. Something like, "I help first-time buyers in the East Valley find their first home without feeling rushed or talked down to." That beats "I'm a hard worker" every time.
Clients expect their agent to be the local expert, and that's knowledge you can build fast, no experience required. Years in the business don't automatically mean market knowledge. Studying your area does.
Pick your target neighborhoods and learn them cold. Know which school districts pull a premium, how fast homes are selling, what a remodel adds to value, and where the next development is going in. Walk the streets. Read the listings every morning. When you can answer a buyer's question before they finish asking it, your license age stops mattering.
Most new agents come from another career, which means you're already bringing skills that translate directly into real estate. Transferable skills are the abilities you built in past jobs that apply just as well to serving clients.
Came from hospitality? You already know how to make people feel taken care of through a stressful process. Came from sales? You can negotiate and follow up without flinching. Managed a team, a classroom, or a restaurant? You can juggle timelines, expectations, and a dozen moving parts at once. Name the skill, then show the client how it helps them. That's marketing.
Your first clients almost always come from your sphere of influence, not strangers. Your sphere of influence is everyone who already knows you, including family, friends, former coworkers, and neighbors.
According to the National Association of Realtors, most buyers find their agent through a referral from a friend, neighbor, or relative, or by working with an agent they've used before. That's good news when you're new, because trust is something you already have with the people closest to you. Tell everyone you know that you're in business. Post it. Text it. Say it at the barbecue. Then make it easy to refer you by being clear about exactly who you help.
A strong personal brand makes you the agent people think of first, and it's built on a story, not a logo. A personal brand is the consistent impression people get of who you are and what you stand for as an agent.
Clients can smell a sales pitch. What they remember is a real person with a real story. So tell yours. Why real estate? Who do you love working with? What do you refuse to do to a client? Write it down, tighten it into a short pitch, and let it run through everything, including your bio, your social posts, and the first 30 seconds of every listing appointment. Authentic beats polished.
You are not selling alone, and that's a marketing advantage you should say out loud. Behind you sits a brokerage, mentors, lenders, inspectors, stagers, and title reps, which is a full team working for your client.
The right brokerage backs you with training, leads, and a name clients already trust, so choosing where to hang your license is one of your first big marketing decisions. When you sit down with a buyer or seller, make it clear they're not getting a rookie working in a vacuum. They're getting you plus a vetted network of pros who close deals every week.
Being new is an advantage online, because you're not stuck in the "old ways" of marketing that many established agents cling to. While some veterans still rely on bus benches and postcards, you can build a following with short video, neighborhood reels, virtual tours, and a clean, searchable online presence.
According to the National Association of Realtors, the overwhelming majority of buyers shop for homes online before they ever call an agent. Meet them there. You don't need a studio. You need a phone, a consistent posting habit, and content that helps people, such as market updates, buyer tips, and honest takes on your area. Do that for a year and you'll out-market agents who've been licensed since you were in high school.
Yes, a certification is one of the fastest ways for a new agent to signal real expertise. When you're new, a specialty designation gives clients a concrete reason to trust you in a specific lane, whether that's first-time buyers, investors, or commercial deals.
A certification tells a client you went out of your way to master something. It also gives you a niche, and a niche makes your marketing sharp instead of generic. "I work with real estate investors and I'm a Certified Investor Agent Specialist" lands harder than "I help anyone buy or sell anything." Pick a lane that fits the clients you want, then get the training that proves it.
You don't beat experienced agents by pretending to have experience. You beat them by being specific, being everywhere your clients are, and being genuinely useful before you ever ask for the sale. Know your market, use your background, lean on your team, and market like it's 2026, because it is.
Your next step: pick one niche this week and go deep.
Ready to turn "new agent" into "the agent everyone refers"? Our career courses give you the specialized training, scripts, and certifications that make your marketing impossible to ignore. Explore the career courses and choose the lane that fits you.
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