I like this a lot, thanks for sharing. Really good information no bs - I especially like 3). I had a very hard time with this as a new agent, especially when I didn't know how to qualify and vet people properly. 

I like #3 the best. If you are not ready or qualified good luck to the other agent.

I have years and years of experience and I still struggle with cutting people loose when I should. 

Debbie all good advice, I have always focused on where I worked... when I was in Boston, MA as a New agent after two weeks I knew I was in the wrong office... so I moved and stayed until we left to relocate to Los Angeles 3+ years... I am still friends with my Broker... then when I came to LA worked for one Broker who sold to a National Chain... I stayed with them for combined 14 years then I switched because of a manager.... and now I have been with the same Broker for 6 plus years so four name changes but only two Broker Changes... with that said it is critical to pick the right Brokerage...Endre

Debbie Laity - Interviewing brokers even before you take your test and get the license is of uppormost importance. Many brokerages only want to recruit and, obviously, make money for themselves. For a new agent, that means lots of money going out before any is coming in. PS. I was only with one broker long enough to get my own broker's license, and I've never looked back.

Morning Debbie.

When I started the broker had so called training each week. That consisted of rah-rah sessions wanting to know how many listings or buyers we were working on.  Exactly why I do not do that in my training.  

I hope new agents will read this post and learn from it. Thank you for sharing.

If I learned anything, Debbie... it's not all about the money. But do the right things and work hard and look out for your clients' best interests... and the money will follow.

Good morning Debbie.  This is wonderful advice for anyone starting out in this difficult career.

We all have to learn from our mistakes and it is always nice to hear about successes that come from people learning from their mistakes!

Thank you very much, Debbie, for sharing your experience and your advice.

Good morning again Debbie. You clearly learned a lot, all be it the hard way. I think your suggestions are right on point.

Debbi,

 Great advice and this works not only for realtors but for builder reps not every builder is the same, some may build a good home but are horrible to work for and it is harder to cut a client, but even builders know sometimes it is best for all concerned!

Knowing when to say good bye to a buyer or seller is an invaluable lesson to learn. I have stayed in the relationship many times to the end and had regrets along the way.

What an encouraging post for new agents. It can be so overwhelming starting a new career - and at times you feel at the mercy to those that lead you. I realize now how fortunate I was to have found my broker the first time. My first year, she was available night and day. Asking questions, tagging along, studying contracts and having contracts reviewed was worth so much more than the split agreed upon.

Debbie, great advice for those considering starting a Real Estate career. 

You have the magic touch Debbie Laity with another great featured blog. Such good lessons to share with those thinking of becoming a real estate agent. Have a good Friday 

Here is someone.... one would enjoy meeting and sharing with....

Thanks for sharing those thoughts Debbie...

Debbie, this is sound advice for new agents or someone considering getting into real estate. Interviewing brokers was something I didn't do and I wish I'd known it was important. Congrats on your feature!

Good evening Debbie Laity ,

So glad to see this post featured! Well done and you've offered some sound advice for anyone thinking of getting into real estate. The whole process can be overwhelming but you've cut though and made in into bite size pieces! Thank you!!

Supposedly if you do what you love the money will follow. Thanks for sharing!

Hi Debbie

There is some very sound advice here, especially about picking the brokerage - my first was a gem, but I know plenty of people who made mistakes with the brokerages they joined.

I think you are right on target about volunteerism and leadership in a number of ways. Not only do you make lots of connections, and give back, but you learn a lot about yourself!

Jeff

I'm glad things have changed, but wonder if they've changed in this small town.

When I started there were 4 brokerages in town, but only one was interested in having another agent. Each office had their 2 or 3 agents and they didn't want to invite more competition.

As for training - it didn't exist. No one even suggested that it should exist.

Debbie, you have shared some great advice for those wanting to get started in real estate.

I jumped right in with our local board. That grew to being involved in the state association.

The benefits for me have been great. I have gained so much education and made great friends.

Good morning Debbie Laity - you have reinforced a point I make all the time.  Some brokers think they can just add people and that it is all about money.  That is univerally untrue whether it is real estate or any other job or business.

Debbie,

I almost missed your post, but thanks to Debbie Reynolds I read it.  Hopefully every newbie agent will read it.  Wishing you a great rest of the weekend.  A

Sage advice, Debbie! I was fortunate that the first brokerage I picked was a good fit for me. But that was luck on my part, and when that brokerage changed hands I had enough experience to know I needed to interview others carefully. Experience helps; I didn't know the questions to ask and what mattered when I was a newbie!

You have great advice. I am sorry that you had such a rocky road, as you said. Thank you for sharing your experience.

Debbie Laity Wow! Fourth time is stellar as you said or maybe you really. said, 'a charm'.  Glad that you had the staying power to succeed in real estate.  

DEBBIE LAITY great post and sound advice. I too had a difficult start and I am now with my third agency - I have found home! Education is so very important in the early years. I thought the 2 previous agencies offered what I needed. Not. New Agents, find a GREAT trainer/mentor. They are worth every moment of time.

Dear Debbie,

Another very wise post. What struck me most is that you stuck with things through difficulty. Never give up! It may lead to success.

Thanks for sharing this Debbie. I agree with your thoughts.

Debbie: You're welcome! Enjoy your day!

Somehow I missed this the first time around, Debbie. You have a great story. FOUR offices in two years? I'm sure it was counterproductive to your success, but glad you are happy where you are. And love your #3 tip. Sometimes despite our biggest efforts we cannot make everyone happy. Better to learn when to cut the ties.

Great advice! Some people end up staying at the same company for a long time while others have to make a few changes. Sometimes your needs just changes.