Real estate agents come from all different backgrounds and ages. The National Association of Realtors® (NAR) finds that 95% of agents chose a real estate career after leaving one or two previous careers—usually in business, finance, or management.
Today, the average age of new real estate agents is near 50. Often, older people choose real estate as a way to ease into retirement or to supplement their retirement income. Younger people tend to go into the business because they are following in their family’s footsteps or they are intent on building a career in a field they love, as well as one that pays well.
Here’s a look at some of the top motivations for people to start a career in real estate.
You should be passionate about real estate
A top reason people explore real estate is that they are fascinated by it. They get a thrill from touring properties and imagining how to transform spaces and build lives within them. They can readily imagine how to increase property values through a few well-chosen upgrades. The idea of doing that as a living is exciting because it taps into the dream most of us have, which is to earn a living doing what we naturally love. And, for many, they imagine how gratifying it will be to help others make smart real estate decisions.
“Real estate provides a path to financial freedom, a flexible schedule, and the personal fulfillment of helping families own their home. Few careers can offer this much.”
Denny G., Real Estate Broker, Florida
You can choose different real estate career paths
The more experience you get under your belt, the more you’re likely to earn as a real estate agent. Additionally, you can parlay your experience in any number of directions, such as property management, real estate investing, corporate real estate departments, or a shift from residential to commercial property sales. By paying close attention to alternate career paths and accumulating the skills you need, you open up more opportunities for advancement.
“I love being my own boss which allows me to have a flexible schedule and to be in control of my successes or failures. I also love the fact that I am constantly learning new things from contracts to rules and regulations. I am never bored. I get to work with some wonderful people and yes, the money is nice as well.” Tracey H., REALTOR, California
You have greater independence as a real estate agent
Maybe you’re a new parent and you want the flexibility to work from home, be your own boss, and develop a work schedule that is tailored to family life. Real estate can do that. Perhaps you’re nearing retirement age and want to supplement your income while enjoying the camaraderie that comes from working with other real estate professionals. Real estate can do that, too.
“In this industry, real estate agents aren’t bound to regular business hours. In order to make an income you need to be working, but the freedom to run errands during the work week, sleep in when needed, and working outside of the office is satisfying.” Brad P., Real Estate Agent, Texas
Still, there are other benefits that draw people to a career in real estate. What are yours?
