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REAL ESTATE SALES. GREAT BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY OR VOW OF POVERTY?

By
Real Estate Agent with Coldwell Banker Residential

I often wonder why there are so many real estate agents.

When I started in the business, 70% of new agents were gone in the first year, and the average earnings for a first year agent was around $13,000.

I don't know what those numbers are today, but I would expect both numbers have become even more bleak...

Keller Williams

I was speaking with my brother this morning. 

My brother, who lives in Austin, has a nephew who is considering becoming a Realtor.

His nephew is young, smart, educated and hardworking.  He would probably make a good agent...

He also has a good job with a nice salary.  The job has plenty of opportunity for advancement.

Apparently, he doesn't find his job satisfying, so he may walk away from the security.

My brother asked me to give his nephew some advice.

Keller Williams

I love selling real estate.

I love the flexibility, the creativity, the sociability, and the big paychecks...

I love being the "go to guy".  The middleman.  The marketer.  The friend...

Most of all, I love that it is my business.  However...

I have found selling real estate surprisingly challenging.  It is very competitive.  Most of the agents I know are struggling.  Many are leaving the business or getting second jobs.

I have spoken with the nephew of the opportunity as well as the challenges he would face, but he still seems excited and intent...

Keller Williams

So what do you think, Active Rain?

Can you give my brother's nephew some advice?

Is a career in real estate a vow of poverty?

Or a great business opportunity?

Ken

 

 

Comments(4)

Doug Rogers
RE/MAX Coastal Properties - Destin, FL
Your Real Estate Resource!

Does your nephew have 6 months in reserve. If he can live with the folks or has a partner with a steady check he could make a go of it. Of he needs a closing next month to cover the rent look out!

Jul 08, 2010 11:54 AM
Ken Tracy
Coldwell Banker Residential - Naperville, IL
Helping clients buy and sell since 2005

Hi Doug and San-san.  Thanks for stopping by.

Doug, great question.  And will 6 months be enough...

I had 6 months once. :)

Thanks again,

Ken

Jul 08, 2010 12:20 PM
Lanette Branch
Taylor Properties - Bel Air, MD
Bel Air, MD Real Estate Agent

Tell him it's a tremendous business opportunity...

as long as he puts his smarts to good use and works his business.

Jul 11, 2010 09:12 AM