Lizzie Weakley https://www.mcgrawrealtors.com 2m 455 #realestate

The views of this article are the perspective of the author and may not be reflective of Confessions of the Professions.

If you are considering a career change or just beginning on your career path, becoming a real estate agent may sound like a great idea. A job that offers almost unlimited income potential, it can be a great career if you love meeting new people each day and don’t mind putting in long hours along the way. However, you don’t just wake up one day and find yourself instantly transformed into a realtor. To learn about real estate and become a licensed realtor, follow these steps.

Select a Real Estate School

Depending on your state, you should have numerous real estate schools from which to choose. However, make sure the school you select is accredited and in good standing with your state’s BBB. Unfortunately, there are some slick operators out there who try to capitalize on people’s dreams of getting rich in real estate, so keep this in mind.

Get a Job in Real Estate

To learn about the real estate business, you may want to get a job in a real estate agency’s office or perhaps for a property management firm. By doing so, you can not only learn what is involved in selling real estate and managing properties, but also have a chance to meet many people in the business. Since many larger agencies offer in-house training courses to help new agents obtain licensing, this is something you should consider.

Pass the Pre-Licensing Exam

Before you actually take your licensing exam that will let you work with clients who have homes for sale, you will need to complete pre-licensing coursework and pass your pre-licensing exam. Most of this can be done online, so you can usually schedule it around your other personal or professional responsibilities. While this may sound overwhelming, most pre-licensing coursework is set up to help prospective agents succeed.

Get Your License and Select a Broker

When you are ready for your licensing exam, the cost is usually about $25. You may also be required to undergo a background check and be fingerprinted, so prepare for this as well. After completing the test at a testing center and gaining your license, you will also need to select a broker with whom you will start your career. When doing so, choose one whose ideas mesh with yours, and who offers you plenty of resources for growth and the chance to make a high income.

When you become a realtor, the world is your oyster. As you follow these steps, remember that completing each one gets you closer to starting a new and exciting career.

About the Author

Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with her husky, Snowball.

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