The exams that you have to do to become a real estate agent are very challenging and will take up a great deal of your time. As you study for the tests you may find that it is hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Once you have passed it can be a great feeling. Although there is no time to relax, now you need to put all of that studying and theory into practice.
1. Have a backup plan
As this is a new career, you should make sure that you have a financial security net or that you have another source of income to last you at least for the first 6 months. You may find that it takes some time to get your first sale and even when you do, it may take some time before you are paid. Having a backup plan is not only good sense, it allows you to focus on your work without being worried about money. You want to avoid looking too stressed in front of any clients after all.
2. Seek out a mentor to show you the ropes
All the test will really get you is the license that you need to start selling houses. To make a successful career out of real estate you need to get some practical experience. This is where a mentor can be invaluable. They will be able to show you the ropes and introduce you to some clients that can help to get your career off the ground. Your first sale is a milestone that you want to reach as soon as possible so that you can look forward to your next one. You will also be able to learn some tricks of the trade and benefit from your mentors many years of experience.
3. Start networking
You will need to be able to have people that you can call to make the process of buying and selling property as smooth as possible. These people can be investors, appraisers, loan officers, mortgage brokers, inspectors and anyone else who you think should be contacted to help facilitate the sale of a house.
4. Leverage the right technology
As your customer base starts to grow, you should start to think about how you can best organize all of the deals that you have in motion. Unless you have a photographic memory, you will need to get organized. The best way to do this is to take advantage of a real estate CRM system where you can keep track of all of your client’s needs and interests. This will allow you to automatically match what a client wants and can afford with the latest property listings.
5. Always be learning
You should not stop learning. Every client you meet, every house you sell will have their own quirks and unique attributes. Over time you will notice that you are constantly adding another string to your bow.
6. Don’t be scared to get out of your comfort zone
You will have to work hard to get clients on board as the real estate market is very competitive. Be ready to be charming and outgoing at social events. If this is something that you are not comfortable doing initially, then fake it till you make it. By continuing to have a positive attitude and take everything in your stride then you will be able to make a very successful career as a real estate agent.
