What are good paths to take when wanting to become a real estate agent
I have been inspired to become a real estate, yet I don't know what is the best path to become one. I have been told that you don't need a degree to become one but that having one puts you at a higher position in understanding and experience. What majors would be most helpful? #real-estate
2 answers
John’s Answer
Lincy - You do not have to have a degree to be a real estate agent. In fact, many people who have degrees in various fields completely unrelated to real estate do quite well. If I were recommending a degree program, I would say to pick business courses, such as real estate law or finance, and any communication courses where you can learn how to speak and communicate to varieties of people. Real estate courses are easy to find, and some can even be done online. Picking the company where you will hang your license is another story. Shop around and ask each about their new agent training and mentoring. Interview new agents to see how they like it. And, please do not go to a company simply because they have a higher commission split than another company. When you sell real estate most markets have a 6% commission for conducting the transaction. That would be 3% to the selling agent and 3% to what is called the listing agent. The listing agent is the agent who works directly with the seller of the property and markets the home so other agents can view it for their buyers. A selling agent works with the prospective buyer for the home. Out of the commission, the real estate broker will typically take a percentage as a fee for use of the office, training, ability to use the phone calls to the office to get buyers, etc. Brokers will typically increase what is called "the split" of the commission as you produce more sales. As a new agent, you most likely would want a reputable firm that has a great new agent training/development program, and one where the broker will help guide you with listing appointments, contracts, what to say to prospective buyers, etc. I hope this helps, and best of luck.
Amanda Greathouse CSP, TSC
Amanda’s Answer
Many larger Real Estate agencies offer the courses you need to become a licensed realtor. Many offices are often hiring for part time or full time office help. You could call local agencies and inquire about a trade of your time/services in the office for their licensing courses. Once licensed, you are ready to join an agency and learn the ropes along the way.