Mary, I got into real estate so I could have some control over my schedule. Since I work with a lot of out-of-town buyers, their schedule really dictates my schedule. However, when I don't have buyers in town and all my listing are under contract, my schedule is a lot more flexible. However, I spend countless hours in front of the computer and previewing properties. I don't know how I would manage if I had another full-time job.

The simple answer is yes, you can be a success.  The same can be true of a full time agent, yes you can be a success.  I started out as a part time agent and was successful because my other job allowed flexibility in scheduling.  I was able to flex my time if a client needd to see a house while I was supposed to be at the other job.  It would be difficult if you had a job where your boss either didn't know or wasn't flexible to allow you to work your real estate business.

I hear a lot about these terrible part time agents and how they can not offer quality service and it is simply not true.  I know some full time agents that take days to answer questions and part time ones who answer right away.  If you are looking to start part time I say be honest with yourself and your current work situation and decide if you can be true to both.

I think it is possible depending on the schedule you work at the other job. If you have a full time job where you are free on the weekend and afternoon/evenings, I think you will achieve a level of success.

I don't know how part time agent handle all the things we have to go through everyday. My days are filled, and if I could learn from a part time agent - why not.

Maybe they don't have so much income than full time agents but still we have to do a lot. But like you said Mary, it all depends on the agent them self.  

Real Estate is a lot of work.  I do not think I could do it part time.  Maybe when I was younger I could.  There is kind of a thrill in just doing real estate and being around real estate.  I enjoy looking at the market and being involved in day to day things.  

HI Mary - I work 7 days a week and I am never wondering what I can do to fill my day- meanign there is always something to dodo, to learn to research...  I can't imagine being a part time agent and also being successful..

I have heard many agent opinions on this subject, ranging from "Yes, you can" to "Hell no!". Facebook real estate groups are especially good places to find this subject debated ad nauseum. My wife started out as a part time agent in 2001 and sold 25 homes. She is now a broker and we own our own real estate brokerage. So in her case, it was a resounding "Yes!". - Wayne

I don't know how agents can handle the amount of work and demand in put on us these days.  If someone can do it part time, more power to them.

Many younger agents start off part-time and transition into full-time as they gain more and more success.  I was part-time for nearly 2 years in the beginning.

Wise words Mary... Your success is up to you.  You hold the key to your success.

Mary, 

I agree I think you can start as a part time agent it all depends on how hard and committed you are. Its a very competitive business and you need to be extremely focused. 

As you said - it all depends upon your commitment and your determination. If you're willing to work hard enough, you can make anything work. 

Dear Mary,

For agents with a day job, I always recommend joining a team. If you cannot meet on a certain day and time, you can always get one of your teammates to cover for you, so the client does not suffer any inferior service. For the most part, you can schedule around your committments, but sometimes, you need a plan B.

Hello Mary,

You state it correctly - a Part-Time agent that is a consummate professional can be successful.  

Lisa, #83, sums it up best and I agree. Many agents don't realize that they're in business to make money and use real estate as their only tool to earn income.

Some agents have multiple tools to earn income, yet because they earn income from other resources or other tools and not exclusively real estate, many agents believe that those are part time agents, don't they? Regardless, if you're full time or part time, your income is determined by your attitude, so it depends on your actions, doesn't it?

Mary, a part time agent works full time hours to get a transaction closed.

Am I a part time Realtor, as I only work half days -- 8 am to 8 pm? If I were a full time would I be working 24 hrs -- 8 am today to 8 am the next day?

I don't think you can classify this on an hours worked per day basis. It is always an interesting discussion though.

Hi Mary I work part time and have for a long time.  I refer out buyers to another co-agent and take the listings.  It works well for me and I am able to handle a higher volumne then when I was full time trying to handle buyers and sellers.  Plus I'm still be guaranteed a monthly paycheck no matter what happens with real estate.  I benefit from knowing my bills are paid and kids are taken care of no matter what happens.  Not for everyone but works for me.

Have a great day!

I work part time ...about half the hours in a week. Labels are for excuses. Any agent can be successful. It is only the effort that determines success, not necessarily the hours.