Become an Agent

If you’re currently trying to decide what to do in terms of a career, it might be time to consider real estate. Real estate is a thriving industry and becoming a real estate agent can provide you with wonderful opportunities.

Is a Career in Real Estate Right For You?

People are always buying and selling property. As such, there’s always a need for real estate agents. However, there are a number of other reasons why being a real estate might be the perfect job for you. The following are a few of the benefits of being a real estate agent:

• You don’t need to get a degree. Although you will need training so that you can pass the real estate licensing exam in your state, this can take as little as a few weeks or a few months depending on where you live. Compared to the four years of college that many careers require, it’s much easier to get started in the real estate industry.
• You can be your own boss. As a real estate agent, you’ll be an independent contractor. This gives you the freedom to grow and become as successful as you want to be.
• You can earn a lot. You won’t be limited by an hourly wage or a set salary. Your income is based on how successful you are. This means that the harder you work, the more you are likely to earn.
• You’ll have a flexible schedule. While you will need to be flexible to the needs of your clients, you also won’t be working set hours. Many real estate agents love the work/life balance this career provides.
• You get to be social. For some, this is a HUGE plus! Real estate agents have to be social to be successful. You’ll be talking to buyers, sellers, and other agents regularly. If you’re a social person, this might be the perfect job for you.

Difference Between a Listing Agent and a Buyer’s Agent

Before you dive any deeper into the possibility of becoming a real estate agent, it helps to understand what the position entails. There’s a lot more to being a real estate agent than showing homes. First of all, there are two main types of real estate agents: buyer’s agents and listing agents. The following is a brief breakdown of the responsibilities of each type:

Buyer’s Agent

A buyer’s agent represents the homebuyer. They work closely with the buyer to determine what their needs and wants are, what area they want to live in, and what their budget is. Using this information, they will use their network of resources (including listing services and other agents in the area) to find properties that meet the criteria of the buyers. They will help schedule showings, provide advice concerning financing, identify good deals, negotiate prices on the buyer’s behalf, and help put together a bid. Additionally, they will guide the buyer through the closing process.

Listing Agent

A listing agent is a real estate agent that represents the seller. They are often known as seller’s agents. They help to price the house accurately, offer advice to prep and stage the house prior to the listing, list the property in several listing services, schedule open houses as well as private showings, use their network of agents to find motivated buyers, negotiate with buyer’s agents, and help guide the seller through the closing process.

How to Become a Real Estate Agent

Becoming a real estate agent is different in every state; however, here in California, you’ll need to do the following:

• You will have to be at least 18 years of age.
• You will need to complete 135 hours of pre-licensing education. This will include three 45-hour courses: real estate principles, real estate finance, and real estate practices.
• You will need to find a real estate broker licensed in California to work under.
• You will need to apply for the state Salesperson Exam and then submit an application for a salesperson license.
• Once you’ve passed the Salesperson License Exam, you will be eligible for licensing.

Because it can take time to do all of this, you can expect to get your real estate license within about five to six months. You will also need to pay a handful of fees, including pre-licensing course tuition (which can range from $125 to $700), a $60 exam fee, and a $245 licensing fee.

Work With Us at Amberwood Real Estate

If you’re interested in pursuing the rewarding career of a real estate agent, contact us at Amberwood Real Estate today to request more information. We’d love the opportunity to talk with you about becoming a real estate agent and perhaps working with us. We can also help guide you to the resources you need in order to become a real estate agent. Through us, you can also receive a 30 percent discount on renewal or licensing courses. What are you waiting for? Let’s get you into an exciting, rewarding career today!