Being a real estate agent is quite a rewarding career path. You have the option to work on your own or join a brokerage so you can be surrounded by fellow industry practitioners. Real estate agents also have flexible working hours, not to mention unlimited earning opportunities with various commission structures.
What’s even better is that everyone has the opportunity to become a real estate agent, since the only strict requirement is getting a license! That said, here are some things to do so you can get hired:
Know Your State’s Guidelines and Get Licensed
As mentioned, the only must-do to become a qualified real estate agent is to get a license. There’s no national-level regulatory body for this, which means that every state has different rules and guidelines. Do your research to make sure that you are able to fulfill all the requirements.
The common ground, however, is that you need to take a corresponding real estate course. This will teach you the basics of buying and selling real estate, as well as discuss laws about ownership, zoning, and environmental laws. You’ll also learn about property taxes and market analysis. There are plenty of options as to where to take the course, including online providers and dedicated real estate schools. If you are looking to get licensed in Texas, NewHomePrograms.com recommends Champions School of Real Estate.
After completing the course, you’ll then have to take a real estate license exam. Then, once you pass, you have to file a real estate license application.
Know Your Real Estate Tech
Much like any other industry, there are now plenty of technological tools that make it easier for real estate professionals to do their job. Being familiar with these tools can give you an edge over the competition, particularly because it shortens your training period.
Some of the things you need to be aware of are CRM systems like the Brokerkit software. Many of these tools also have automation options, which come in handy for email campaigns and scheduling. You also have to take note of tools for lead generation and market data analysis. Of course, knowledge of MLS will always be valuable.
Develop Essential Skills
Anyone from any educational background can become a real estate agent as long as they’re properly licensed. Still, there are certain skills that you should develop to become successful in the field. These include:
Accounting and Business Math
Whether you like it or not, numbers are a big part of being a real estate agent because you’ll be computing a lot of prices, costs, and taxes. The most important skills you need are accounting and business math.
Communication and Negotiation Skills
At its core, real estate is all about people. It doesn’t matter if you’re helping someone buy or sell—you have to be able to effectively communicate so that everyone is happy with the deal. If any conflicts arise, you need to be able to smooth them out.
Being a good communicator can also help you build rapport with your clients. This is particularly important in word-of-mouth marketing, as well as in establishing your reputation as a competent real estate agent.
Market Knowledge
This isn’t a skill, per se, but being equipped with the latest market knowledge can help ensure that you’re giving good advice to your clients. Consider specializing in one or two locales when you’re starting out. This way, it’s easier to manage information and you’ll also build stronger relationships with the community.
Network, Network, Network
Networking is an important part of being a real estate agent. The more people you know, the more referrals you’ll likely have. You can also surround yourself with real estate professionals who can serve as your mentors and collaborators.
Join real estate events when you can; start with smaller ones such as local lunch-and-learns and then work your way up to national and even international events. You can also talk to your friends and family to start building your contacts.
Join an Organization
In relation to the above tip, it’s a good idea to join a real estate organization. They can help put you in touch with more people so you can efficiently build your network, not to mention refer you to potential clients and employers. You may also find it easier to access educational opportunities such as scholarships and international conferences. If you are looking to become a REALTOR® in the Greater Houston Area, NewHomePrograms.com recommends becoming a member of Houston Association of Realtors (HAR).
If you’re already a member of a local association, you can try signing up with the National Association of Realtors (NAR). You’ll have to pay a membership fee, but in turn you’ll get access to member support, educational materials, and business connections.
Lastly, you should cultivate your online presence. Build a website. Develop your social media following. Write a blog and tell people about yourself and why you decided on a career as a real estate agent. By letting people get to know you and your story, you’ll be able to establish connections a lot faster and easier.
The real estate industry is an exciting field. Hopefully, these simple tips can help bring you one step closer to your goal of becoming a real estate agent. Good luck!
Guest article provided by Brokerkit.
Written on
It stood out to me when you explained that there are certain skills that need to be developed if you are trying to get hired in the real estate industry. Would it be a good idea to take classes if you are trying to get into real estate? Taking classes seems like a good way to make yourself stand out from other candidates.
Written on
Yes, make sure they are accredited classes following the guidelines to your service area.