Being a real estate agent is a pretty awesome profession. Sure, there are some challenges, but also countless benefits. If you have ever wondered about starting a career in this field just keep reading and I will give you a few of the reasons I believe it can’t be beat!
First and foremost, you are your own boss! You’ll never be fired as long as you’re honest and ethical (which is of course a good business practice). Being your own boss has a lot of benefits like a flexible schedule and you can often choose who you work with. You will meet lots of new people as well as have your fellow agents whom you work with (most of which you’ll like)! As with most commission based careers you truly get out of it what you put in. It is not just about working hard, but also working smarter. Many agents enjoy finding a niche to specialize in whether it is a specific type of sale or a designated neighborhood. Being the best at something can be very rewarding! Being your own boss also means you will wear many hats and constantly be juggling multiple projects or transactions.
Secondly, you’re decision making skills will improve! Reason being is because you must always be reevaluating your business and making changes. Where you focus your marketing efforts and how much you are spending (both time and money) can be very fun. In this age of Facebook and Youtube videos you truly can be very creative and have a good time with it. Choosing which listings to take and sometimes what buyers/sellers to avoid is vital.
You can probably see the reoccurring theme of self management. Budgeting your finances properly is key especially early in your career. There will be months when you have lots of closings and maybe some when you have few or even none. Real estate is of course seasonal, especially in snowy Duluth. Even if you don’t have closings you still will have bills, both real estate based and not. Taxes will be a little more work than you may be used to as you are now “self employed” so careful records of expenses can be very helpful and pay dividends.
Lastly, the benefits outweigh the challenges. Real estate is a great career and there are countless benefits. Agents really can learn and grow their skill set in so many ways. You are also constantly in beautiful homes which I happen to really enjoy. As natural entrepreneurs many agents may foray into the property management field as I have. Whether they own a couple of duplexes for some extra income or manage hundreds of units like East West Property Management, there are always opportunities! As Mark Twain famously said “Buy land, they’re not making it anymore.”
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out and ask. I’d be more than happy to answer them and discuss ideas. Of course if you are in Northern Minnesota or Northwest Wisconsin, there is no better company than Coldwell Banker East West Realty! Still don’t believe me? Check out a few of the below national surveys.
Real estate agents are among the happiest in their careers
2013 Top National Workplaces survey
Frank Rush, Management Director/Co-Owner