Are you interested in becoming a real estate agent? The majority of real estate agents come to the profession as a second, third, or even fourth career change. They’ve tried other professions and left dissatisfied with the work, the pay, or the lack of independence. They come to real estate because earning your license is affordable and fast, especially compared to other qualifications they could pursue.

You can start your new career by getting you real estate license. Real estate license schools offer low-cost real estate license courses online, and they can walk you through the process step by step. The process is simple, and you can make it fit around your work or family life.

It couldn’t be easier to earn your real estate license online, but what about your first few months and years actually working as an agent?

Once you have your license, it can feel like you’re on your own. Whether you join a real estate team or you work independently, it can feel like you’ve been dropped into the ocean without a lifeboat. You’re suddenly responsible for finding clients and closing deals. Unlike with many other careers, there is no one to hold your hand until you learn how to do it. You have to figure it out on your own, but once you do, you get to enjoy the rewards of your hard work.

With these 5 tips for succeeding as a new agent, you can survive and thrive through your first year, setting yourself up for a lifetime career of independence.

1. Commit To Your New Career

Too many real estate agents fail because they’re not committed to becoming a real estate professional. Commitment means doing whatever it takes for as long as it takes to succeed. It means learning a sales script, creating a growth plan, and making your calls – not when it’s convenient, but now.

2. Find A Good Broker

A broker can be a great resource for continuing education and learning how to become a salesperson. There’s more to real estate than knowing the ins and outs of the paperwork. You need to be a great people person and a resource for your clients. A good broker can help connect you with great resources.

3. Think Small To Earn Big Wins

As an independent contractor, think about how you are your business. Your business should be flexible, portable, and able to grow with you and move with you. Create a plan that will help you fit your business to your life and grow.

4. Join A Team

You may join a real estate team, working for someone else who has grown their business beyond what they personally can handle. Joining a team can help with the one of the biggest hurdles to your early career: finding leads and clients. Working as part of a team can also help you overcome other obstacles. Teams brainstorm and come to creative solutions.

5. Be Strategic

How do you look at your marketplace? Are you constantly up to date on the listings and price changes in your area? You need to be able to talk to your clients knowledgeably about strategic pricing to make them happy. Data is a powerful tool in real estate, and it will impress your clientele. With the right plan and commitment going into real estate, you can set yourself up to be in this industry for the long haul.