Becoming a realtor can seem like an exciting and lucrative career path, especially if you’re drawn to beautiful homes, flexible schedules, and the possibility of high commissions. But the reality of working in real estate goes far beyond just passing the licensing exam and opening doors for clients. There’s a lot that aspiring agents don’t realize until they’re deep into the business.
If you’re considering becoming a realtor, here’s what you really need to know.
Top 10 Things to Consider If You Plan to Become a Real Estate Agent
1. Yes, You Need a Real Estate License, But That’s Just the Beginning
Every state requires you to take a pre-licensing course and pass a state exam to legally represent buyers and sellers in real estate transactions. But your education doesn’t stop there. Successful realtors invest time and money into ongoing training, certifications, and keeping up with market trends. The learning curve is steep, and the test is just the entry ticket.
2. You’ll Drive…a Lot
Get ready to put miles on your car. Being a realtor means spending a large part of your day driving between showings, open houses, inspections, meetings, and networking events. You’ll need to be comfortable living out of your car at times—complete with snacks, extra chargers, and possibly a spare pair of shoes.
3. Promoting Your Career as a Realtor is Part of the Job
You are your brand. If you’re uncomfortable putting yourself out there on social media or in person, this job will push you far outside your comfort zone. You’ll need to promote yourself constantly on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and even in casual conversations. Yes, it might feel awkward, but marketing yourself is non-negotiable if you want people to remember your name when they’re ready to buy or sell.
4. Your Brain Will Always Be “On” Real Estate
When someone mentions they’re thinking about moving, your mind will instantly shift into business mode. That means always being ready with insight, resources, or a soft pitch even at social gatherings. Your business is built on relationships and opportunities, and they can come from anywhere.
5. You’ll Talk to a Lot of People Who Never Hire You
You’ll answer dozens of messages, give tours, provide advice, and follow up on leads that go nowhere. People will ghost you. Friends will use another agent. It can be frustrating and emotionally draining. Thick skin and persistence are must-haves.
6. Marketing is a Full-Time Job Within the Job
Beyond selling homes, you’ll also be selling yourself and the properties you represent. That means designing flyers, filming listing videos, writing compelling captions, running paid ads, sending newsletters, and following up with every contact you make. Real estate is a business, and you’re both the product and the marketer.
7. Commissions Aren’t as Big as They Look
That “3% commission” might sound like a windfall, but after splitting with your brokerage, paying taxes, marketing expenses, insurance, and other business costs, it shrinks fast. Don’t expect instant financial freedom. Many new agents work side jobs or dip into savings as they build their pipeline. Remember when making a career change, there can be a lot of financial implications and requires planning.
8. It’s Extremely Competitive
No matter where you live, there are likely hundreds, if not thousands, of licensed agents. Standing out takes time, energy, and consistent branding. Referrals help, but they aren’t automatic. You need to hustle and prove your value every step of the way.
9. Weekends and Evenings are Your Prime Time
Clients want to see homes outside of their 9-to-5 jobs, which means your schedule will flip. You’ll work weekends, late evenings, and holidays. It can be difficult to balance work and personal time, especially during busy seasons.
10. It’s Not Easy to Become a Realtor but It Can Be Incredibly Rewarding
Despite all the challenges, being a realtor can be deeply fulfilling. Helping a first-time buyer close on their dream home or supporting a family through a major move is meaningful work. The flexibility, the autonomy, and the satisfaction of building your own business are huge upsides for the right person.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a realtor is not the “easy money” gig it’s often portrayed to be. It requires hustle, resilience, and a thick skin. But for those who are truly passionate about real estate and willing to put in the hard work, it can be a dynamic and rewarding career.
Just make sure you go in with your eyes wide open and your gas tank full.
