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How can I get a head start in Real Estate?
I’m a junior in high school and unsure of my career path, but I would like to know a bit about real estate because I am likely to choose econ or business as my major.
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6 answers
Updated
Victor’s Answer
Hi Hulan,
It's great that you've already got a major and industry in mind. There is so much in the real estate arena. If you're thinking about being an agent or broker - those doing so in your area can be a big help. In fact, they can even be helpful if you're more focused on other areas of the real estate industry.
What I recommend would be to learn about what the requirements are for brokers & agents in California - there are many resources. I also recommend reaching out to agents and brokers in your area. You might find one in need of some help. You could potentially do intern-assitant-type tasks for the broker while learning about the market, how transactions work, etc.
For real estate agents/brokers in your state - this is what I found to be basic requirements:
1. Meet the Education Requirements:
Complete 135 hours of real estate coursework from an accredited institution.
Pass the California Real Estate Salesperson Exam.
2. Complete the Experience Requirement:
Work as a real estate salesperson for at least 2 years under the supervision of a licensed real estate broker.
3. Pass the California Real Estate Broker Exam:
Once you have completed the experience requirement, you can take the California Real Estate Broker Exam.
4. Obtain a Real Estate Broker's License:
Once you have passed the California Real Estate Broker Exam, you can apply for a real estate broker's license from the California Department of Real Estate (DRE).
Many local brokers offer internship programs that allow students to gain hands-on experience in the real estate industry. Internships can also help students build relationships with local real estate professionals, which can be helpful when looking for a job after graduation.
Here's some advice on how to effectively reach out and potentially secure a mentorship opportunity:
Identify Local Brokers: Research local real estate brokerages in your area. Look for established firms as well as smaller, independent offices. This can be as simple as googling "real estate brokers near me", but the California Association of Realtors may also provide referrals.
Personalized Letters: Consider writing physical letters. This shows extra effort. In your letter, express your interest in real estate, your desire to learn, and offer to provide office support or agent-assistant work. Highlight any relevant skills you have.
Targeted Emails: Send follow-up emails or initial emails if you prefer. Keep them concise and professional. Again, emphasize your interest in learning and offer assistance.
**Showcase Your Interest**: Clearly state your goal of learning about the real estate profession. Mention any coursework you've completed or resources you've explored, such as the California Association of Realtors (CAR) or the California Department of Real Estate (DRE).
Offer Value: Frame your request as a mutually beneficial arrangement. You're offering to provide support in exchange for mentorship and learning opportunities. Suggest tasks like administrative work, marketing assistance, etc.
Tips for Your Message:
Be Professional: Use a professional tone and format in your letters and emails.
Follow Up: If you don't hear back, follow up with a brief email or phone call.
Prepare for Interviews: If you get a response, be prepared to discuss your interest in real estate, your skills, and your availability.
California Association of Realtors (CAR): CAR offers a variety of educational resources for real estate professionals, including courses, workshops, and webinars
California Department of Real Estate (DRE): The DRE's website provides information about licensing requirements, education, and other topics related to real estate in California.
National Association of Realtors (NAR): NAR offers a variety of educational resources for real estate professionals, including courses, conferences, and webinars.
It's great that you've already got a major and industry in mind. There is so much in the real estate arena. If you're thinking about being an agent or broker - those doing so in your area can be a big help. In fact, they can even be helpful if you're more focused on other areas of the real estate industry.
What I recommend would be to learn about what the requirements are for brokers & agents in California - there are many resources. I also recommend reaching out to agents and brokers in your area. You might find one in need of some help. You could potentially do intern-assitant-type tasks for the broker while learning about the market, how transactions work, etc.
For real estate agents/brokers in your state - this is what I found to be basic requirements:
1. Meet the Education Requirements:
Complete 135 hours of real estate coursework from an accredited institution.
Pass the California Real Estate Salesperson Exam.
2. Complete the Experience Requirement:
Work as a real estate salesperson for at least 2 years under the supervision of a licensed real estate broker.
3. Pass the California Real Estate Broker Exam:
Once you have completed the experience requirement, you can take the California Real Estate Broker Exam.
4. Obtain a Real Estate Broker's License:
Once you have passed the California Real Estate Broker Exam, you can apply for a real estate broker's license from the California Department of Real Estate (DRE).
Many local brokers offer internship programs that allow students to gain hands-on experience in the real estate industry. Internships can also help students build relationships with local real estate professionals, which can be helpful when looking for a job after graduation.
Here's some advice on how to effectively reach out and potentially secure a mentorship opportunity:
Identify Local Brokers: Research local real estate brokerages in your area. Look for established firms as well as smaller, independent offices. This can be as simple as googling "real estate brokers near me", but the California Association of Realtors may also provide referrals.
Personalized Letters: Consider writing physical letters. This shows extra effort. In your letter, express your interest in real estate, your desire to learn, and offer to provide office support or agent-assistant work. Highlight any relevant skills you have.
Targeted Emails: Send follow-up emails or initial emails if you prefer. Keep them concise and professional. Again, emphasize your interest in learning and offer assistance.
**Showcase Your Interest**: Clearly state your goal of learning about the real estate profession. Mention any coursework you've completed or resources you've explored, such as the California Association of Realtors (CAR) or the California Department of Real Estate (DRE).
Offer Value: Frame your request as a mutually beneficial arrangement. You're offering to provide support in exchange for mentorship and learning opportunities. Suggest tasks like administrative work, marketing assistance, etc.
Tips for Your Message:
Be Professional: Use a professional tone and format in your letters and emails.
Follow Up: If you don't hear back, follow up with a brief email or phone call.
Prepare for Interviews: If you get a response, be prepared to discuss your interest in real estate, your skills, and your availability.
Victor recommends the following next steps:
Updated
David’s Answer
Hi Hulan,
That's a great mindset! Getting an early start in real estate will give you a huge advantage if you decide to pursue it. Here are a few ways to get ahead:
1. Learn the Basics
Read books like The Millionaire Real Estate Agent by Gary Keller or Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki (for financial mindset).
Follow real estate podcasts and YouTube channels to stay updated on market trends.
2. Take Relevant Courses
Look into dual enrollment or AP courses in economics, business, and finance.
Some states allow you to take real estate pre-licensing courses at 18, so you could prepare early.
3. Gain Real-World Experience
Try shadowing a real estate agent or interning at a brokerage firm.
Work in related fields like property management, sales, or customer service to build relevant skills.
4. Develop Your Network
Attend local real estate events, join Facebook or LinkedIn groups, and connect with agents.
If possible, find a mentor who can guide you in the industry.
5. Build a Financial Foundation
Learn about credit scores, mortgages, and investment strategies.
Consider starting a side hustle or part-time job to build savings for future investments.
Would you be interested in getting licensed as soon as you're eligible, or are you more focused on learning about real estate as a potential career?
That's a great mindset! Getting an early start in real estate will give you a huge advantage if you decide to pursue it. Here are a few ways to get ahead:
1. Learn the Basics
Read books like The Millionaire Real Estate Agent by Gary Keller or Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki (for financial mindset).
Follow real estate podcasts and YouTube channels to stay updated on market trends.
2. Take Relevant Courses
Look into dual enrollment or AP courses in economics, business, and finance.
Some states allow you to take real estate pre-licensing courses at 18, so you could prepare early.
3. Gain Real-World Experience
Try shadowing a real estate agent or interning at a brokerage firm.
Work in related fields like property management, sales, or customer service to build relevant skills.
4. Develop Your Network
Attend local real estate events, join Facebook or LinkedIn groups, and connect with agents.
If possible, find a mentor who can guide you in the industry.
5. Build a Financial Foundation
Learn about credit scores, mortgages, and investment strategies.
Consider starting a side hustle or part-time job to build savings for future investments.
Would you be interested in getting licensed as soon as you're eligible, or are you more focused on learning about real estate as a potential career?
Updated
Rafael’s Answer
Hi Hulan,
I think diving into real estate while still in high school is a brilliant idea, especially if you are interested in a major in economics or business! Start by searching the basics through books, online courses, and YouTube videos on investing, property management, and market analysis. Once you are in college, you can dive deeper into real estate within your major by taking courses like real estate finance, property law, and urban economics. I recommend joining a real estate club or association at your university which is a way to network and gain insights from industry professionals through events and workshops. Also, seek out internships or part-time jobs in real estate agencies to get hands-on experience and build your connections. Good luck!
I think diving into real estate while still in high school is a brilliant idea, especially if you are interested in a major in economics or business! Start by searching the basics through books, online courses, and YouTube videos on investing, property management, and market analysis. Once you are in college, you can dive deeper into real estate within your major by taking courses like real estate finance, property law, and urban economics. I recommend joining a real estate club or association at your university which is a way to network and gain insights from industry professionals through events and workshops. Also, seek out internships or part-time jobs in real estate agencies to get hands-on experience and build your connections. Good luck!
Updated
Roland Mari’s Answer
Begin by gathering free information. Google is a great resource for this. It will help you understand where to begin. In my experience with real estate, there are three main roles: real estate agent, real estate broker, and realtor. Although all must have licenses, the requirements differ. In the Philippines, a real estate broker needs a four-year college degree and must pass a licensure exam to sell properties legally. On the other hand, agents usually only need training and work under a real estate company.
Updated
Carlos’s Answer
Hi Hulan,
I agree with what Roland mentioned above. You might want to start by doing some research on Google. I found this website on the requirements to apply for a Real Estate Salesperson license in California. The website is from the California Department of Real Estate: https://www.dre.ca.gov/examinees/requirementssales.html.
I agree with what Roland mentioned above. You might want to start by doing some research on Google. I found this website on the requirements to apply for a Real Estate Salesperson license in California. The website is from the California Department of Real Estate: https://www.dre.ca.gov/examinees/requirementssales.html.
Updated
Eric Scott’s Answer
I'm taking a cue from my wife, who's 10 years younger than me, and I'm going to start watching reality TV shows about real estate. These shows might not be everyone's top choice, but they offer a unique way to learn. Many people suggest using Google, but for high school students and the way Gen Z thinks, these shows can be really helpful. They cover everything from luxury properties to budget-friendly homes, buying, selling, and flipping. You'll see both the wild and the professional sides of the business. Watching these shows can give you a broad view of the real estate world.
While it's important to learn everything you can in school, being street-smart is key. Understanding what happens behind the scenes is crucial. Even though you need a license to work in real estate, having street smarts, confidence, and charisma will help you succeed. That's just my take on it.
While it's important to learn everything you can in school, being street-smart is key. Understanding what happens behind the scenes is crucial. Even though you need a license to work in real estate, having street smarts, confidence, and charisma will help you succeed. That's just my take on it.