Any Realtors out there?

[WeirdEyes]

I've been thinking of becoming a Real Estate agent for quite some time. I eventually want to also get involved in interior design. DH thinks I'd make a great Realtor and wants me to go ahead and take the classes and take the state board test. I'm kind of scared because I don't know what to expect. Can any of you give me some good advice and would you even encourage someone to become a Realtor? I would love to be able to work out of my house most of the time, but would also work out of a regular real estate office a couple of days a week. Thanks in advance for any advice (good or bad).

 

[WeirdEyes]

I know there's got to be some Realtors out there that can give me some advice. Please, pretty please!

 

[kasar]

Well, I'm not a realtor but my whole family is (actually I did take and pass the exam but decided it wasn't my cup of tea), my mother owns an agency and my father, sister and brother work there. It's a great job if you like the flexibility of making your own hours, if you are good with people, if you're willing to "go that extra mile" for your customers. The money can be good but it comes all at once with sometimes long breaks in between. You are usually considered an independent contractor which means you are responsible for all of your own expenses and benefits, including insurance. The state fees, board memberships and other expenses can get very expensive if you're not making any money. I've always said that it's a great job for someone who has a spouse that has a steady income with good benefits.

The most important factor is your ambition. If you are willing to work hard and be at the disposal of your clients at all times, you can be really successful. Know your area well, get to know all kinds of people by joining school boards or chamber of commerce groups and do lots of advertising.

Hope that helps. Let me know if you have any other questions and I'll ask my family.

 

[WeirdEyes]

Thanks for your response and the information. My DH has a great job with great benefits so that is not a problem. I guess the only way to be successful is to have a good network system so you can get referrals. I've got a lot of thinking to do. I might go ahead and take the class and then get the license. I don't have to actually use it right away. I have a good job, but I want more out of life. I get very bored with what I do now. I like excitement! Again, I appreciate the info.