Quote:
Originally Posted by bluemonday
I am considering taking a local class at my community college to become a real estate agent, take the test, and become a part time agent. I have a primary career as a quality assurance professional. However, that is the real reason I am thinking of doing this...I have a huge drive for quality, and I want to help others find their dream home (or what could be their dream home) with a quality of service I have not seen for myself when buying a house last year. Also, I am obsessed with housing...I read real estate articles, look at listings, and try to help others find homes as my hobby. I'm not really looking for money, just a way to filter this passion more in a more effective manner. Should a side career in real estate be something to consider?
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If you want to do it - Go for it. I did it, and I have enjoyed it. Start up costs vary by state, but are likely around $2000....Annual costs exist for education, dues, NAR, MLS, Supra, etc but they total about another $500-$1000/yr.
The hardest part is the broker - you will need to find one to sponsor you who will let you keep most of what you make....If you have a family member or friend that is a broker then its significantly easier....bigger brokerages charge you to work for them, and while some will disagree I do not think that they matter except for the sake of cold calls from strangers, and if you intend to be a listing agent.
I have not yet come across someone who did not want to sell a house because it was listed with XYZ, instead of ABC... The property sells the property - not the brokerage.
So with that said if your willing to spend about $1000/yr to maintain your license, $2000 to get your license, and then offer a valuable service then go for it.
Real Estate does change quickly, but it does not change hourly....if you can devote an hour a day you can keep up with absolutely everything in the market. If your not full time, you may lose out on fast sells - but they are the exception not the norm.
Don't let people discourage you from doing something you want to do - Try it, do it, give it your all - just dont have expectations of income from it. Do it for yourself and don't worry what all the other people think.
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