I am 16 in high school and wanting to learn about real estate, where should I start?
My name is Lindsey and I am currently in 10th grade. For over a year, I have been wanting to understand real estate and what it takes to become a successful real estate agent. I am enrolled in business classes at my high school, but not specifically real estate. I know that I can’t officially get my real estate license until I am 18, but I want to build a foundation and understand the basics of real estate. I follow several real estate agents on social media and they have influenced me to learn more about the industry. I just am not quite sure on where I should start.
3 answers
Iryna’s Answer
It's great to hear about your interest in real estate at such a young age! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started on your journey to understanding the real estate industry and preparing for a successful career as a real estate agent:
1. Educate Yourself on Real Estate Basics
Books: Start by reading introductory books on real estate. Some recommended titles include:
"The Book on Rental Property Investing" by Brandon Turner
"Real Estate Investing for Dummies" by Eric Tyson and Robert S. Griswold
"The Millionaire Real Estate Agent" by Gary Keller
Online Courses: Look for online courses or platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or Khan Academy that offer free or low-cost real estate courses covering basics, terminology, and industry insights.
2. Stay Informed about the Market
Real Estate News: Follow real estate news websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and industry publications to stay updated on market trends, news, and insights.
Podcasts and YouTube Channels: Listen to real estate podcasts and watch YouTube channels that focus on real estate topics. This can provide valuable perspectives from industry professionals.
3. Network and Connect
Join Local Real Estate Groups: Look for local real estate investment clubs, seminars, or community events that allow you to meet real estate professionals and enthusiasts.
Informational Interviews: Reach out to real estate agents or brokers in your area for informational interviews. Ask about their experiences, challenges, and recommendations for getting started.
4. Explore Practical Experience
Part-Time Opportunities: If possible, consider part-time work or internships at real estate agencies. Even administrative roles can provide valuable exposure to the industry.
Volunteer for Nonprofits: Check if local organizations need volunteers for housing-related projects. This experience can deepen your understanding of the market and community real estate issues.
5. Develop Relevant Skills
Communication and Negotiation: Strong communication and negotiation skills are critical in real estate. Consider taking courses or workshops that focus on these areas.
Sales Skills: Since real estate sales are crucial, look for resources that teach effective sales techniques.
6. Utilize Social Media
Follow Influencers: Continue following successful real estate agents on social media. Pay attention to their advice, tips, and strategies for success.
Engage and Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to engage with real estate content by asking questions or sharing your thoughts to build connections.
7. Plan for Licensing
Research Licensing Requirements: Start researching the requirements for obtaining a real estate license in your state. Knowing the process will help you prepare for when you reach the eligibility age.
Study for the License Exam: Once you're closer to 18, consider enrolling in online classes that prepare you for the licensing exam.
8. Consider Higher Education
Business or Real Estate Programs: Think about where you'd like to pursue higher education after high school. Many universities offer specialized programs in real estate or business that can provide valuable knowledge and skills.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to laying a solid foundation for a career in real estate. Keep nurturing your passion, learning, and connecting with industry professionals, and you'll be well-positioned to succeed when you're ready to officially enter the field. Good luck!
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
Getting Started in Real Estate: A Comprehensive Guide for High School Students
1. Understanding the Basics of Real Estate
To build a solid foundation in real estate, start by familiarizing yourself with key concepts and terminology. This includes understanding different types of properties (residential, commercial, industrial), the roles of real estate agents, brokers, and investors, as well as basic principles such as property valuation, market analysis, and financing options. Resources like online courses or introductory books on real estate can be beneficial.
2. Educational Resources
Since you are already enrolled in business classes, consider supplementing your education with specific resources focused on real estate. Here are some suggestions:
Online Courses: Websites like Coursera or Udemy offer courses specifically tailored to real estate fundamentals. Look for courses that cover topics such as property management, real estate investment strategies, and the buying/selling process.
Books: There are numerous books available that cater to beginners in real estate. Some recommended titles include “The Book on Rental Property Investing” by Brandon Turner and “Real Estate Investing for Dummies” by Eric Tyson and Robert S. Griswold.
Podcasts and YouTube Channels: Many successful real estate professionals share their knowledge through podcasts and YouTube channels. Following these can provide insights into current trends and practical advice from experienced agents.
3. Networking Opportunities
Networking is crucial in the real estate industry. Start building connections early by:
Joining Local Real Estate Groups: Look for local chapters of organizations like the National Association of Realtors (NAR) or other community-based groups where you can meet professionals in the field.
Attending Workshops/Seminars: Keep an eye out for workshops or seminars hosted by local real estate agencies or educational institutions. These events often provide valuable information and networking opportunities.
Social Media Engagement: Continue following real estate agents on platforms like Instagram or LinkedIn but also engage with them by asking questions or commenting on their posts to foster relationships.
4. Gaining Practical Experience
While you cannot obtain a license until you’re 18, there are still ways to gain practical experience:
Internships: Seek internships at local real estate firms or property management companies. Even if these positions are unpaid, they can provide invaluable hands-on experience.
Volunteering: Consider volunteering for community development projects or housing initiatives that allow you to learn more about the industry while contributing positively to your community.
5. Preparing for Licensing
Once you turn 18, you’ll need to prepare for your state’s licensing exam:
Study State-Specific Requirements: Each state has its own requirements regarding pre-licensing education and exams. Research what is needed in your state well ahead of time.
Practice Exams: Utilize practice exams available online to familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions you will encounter during the actual licensing exam.
6. Continuous Learning
Real estate is a constantly evolving field; therefore, continuous learning is essential:
Stay updated on market trends through reputable news sources such as The Wall Street Journal’s Real Estate section or industry-specific publications.
Consider pursuing further education after high school related to business administration or finance if you want to deepen your knowledge before entering the workforce full-time.
By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on a successful career in real estate once you’re eligible to obtain your license.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. National Association of Realtors (NAR)
The NAR provides extensive resources about becoming a realtor including educational materials, networking opportunities, and industry standards which are essential for anyone looking to enter the field of real estate.
2. Investopedia
Investopedia offers comprehensive articles covering various aspects of investing in real estate including definitions of key terms and concepts which serve as a great starting point for beginners wanting foundational knowledge.
3. BiggerPockets
BiggerPockets is an online community focused on real estate investing that provides forums, blogs, podcasts, and guides aimed at helping individuals understand all facets of real estate from beginner levels up through advanced strategies.
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Andre’s Answer
1️⃣ Get Curious: Dive into free resources like YouTube videos, blogs, or podcasts. Look up content from top real estate agents—they’ll give you a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed. BiggerPockets is a great starting point if you’re curious about real estate investing.
2️⃣ Read to Lead: Books like “The Millionaire Real Estate Agent” by Gary Keller or “Rich Dad Poor Dad” are packed with lessons that will shape your mindset and teach you the basics of real estate and building wealth.
3️⃣ Find a Mentor: Don’t wait until you’re 18 to connect with real estate professionals. Reach out to local agents or firms, tell them you’re passionate about learning, and see if you can shadow them or help out. Small steps can lead to big opportunities.
4️⃣ Sharpen Your Skills: Real estate is about relationships. Use this time to build your communication and networking skills. Join clubs like business, debate, or even theater to become comfortable talking with people in any situation.
5️⃣ Start Saving: Success in real estate also requires an investment in yourself. Save a little money now for future costs like licensing courses, exam fees, or marketing when you’re ready to start.
6️⃣ Build Your Brand: Start sharing your journey on social media. Document what you’re learning and the steps you’re taking. People love seeing someone’s growth story, and this could help you build connections early.
The fact that you’re thinking about this now is proof that you have the drive to succeed. Stay curious, keep learning, and take consistent small steps. Real estate isn’t just about properties—it’s about mindset, resilience, and building relationships. You’re already ahead of the game!