How To Become A Real Estate Agent

Real estate agents are the go-between for transfer of real property i.e. real estate, housing etc. A real estate agent acts in good faith and helps brings buyers and sellers together on a mutually acceptable deal. This is an attractive and lucrative career and can guarantee financial success. Follow these steps in order to become a real estate agent.

Getting the right education
A real estate agent has to be educated and motivated.  It requires good interpersonal skills including good communication. For this a good education, preferably a college education, comes in handy.  In order to gain a  license to operate as a real estate agent you'll be required to take certain pre-license courses. Different states will have different requirements and you should check with your state's real estate commission for details.  The courses that you will most likely have to take will include Real Estate Principles, Business Law, and Advanced Real Estate etc.

Choosing a Brokerage Firm
In order to practice as a real estate broker you have to work with a brokerage firm. A brokerage firm is the agency which will put you in touch with prospective buyers and sellers. The recruitment process of the brokerage firm will depend on the size and repute of the firm. It is never too early to start potential brokerage firms you would want to work with. While choosing a brokerage firm, you should consider its training programs. Brokerage firms will sometimes require agents to take as much as three years of additional training. Experience at a brokerage firm will allow you to gain experience and learn from the expertise of people who have been doing this for years. This is an excellent opportunity to develop a relationship with seasoned real estate agents who can guide you about the workings of the market.

Get Licensed
A license is usually required for you to operate as a real estate agent. This licensing helps protect buyers and sellers. These agents act like facilitators between the various parties involved in transactions related to property. The Real Estate Broker License or Real Estate Salesperson License indicates that the person is fully qualified to help consumers and sellers through the process of acquiring and selling property.

Arranging Money
Working as a real estate agent will require some investment. For example, you will need to spend on the following areas:

• licensing courses,
• business cards,
• signs and advertising and association fees

This will be almost $1500-$2000, not including exam fees. This sum is less than the startup cost of most businesses and professions.
 
To become a Realtor
In order to become a realtor you will have to join the National Association of Realtors (NAR). This is done by choosing an affiliated brokerage.

Building a network
The best way to gain and maintain clients is to build a network of references. This can involve building your contacts and bringing in new clients and working with a mentor- a seasoned real estate agent who will guide you through this challenging but rewarding career.