5 Things to Consider Before Starting a Career in Real Estate

Thinking about becoming a real estate agent? Here’s what you should know before jumping in.

A career in real estate can be exciting, flexible, and financially rewarding. You get to be your own boss, build lasting client relationships, and help people make one of the biggest decisions of their lives, buying or selling a home. But before you leap in, it’s important to understand what it takes to succeed. Here are five key things to consider if you’re thinking about a career in real estate.

1. Licensing & Education

Getting started in real estate requires more than just enthusiasm, you’ll need to meet your state’s licensing requirements. This typically involves completing 90 hours of coursework and passing a state exam. The coursework covers everything from real estate law to contracts and ethics. While it can often be done online, it does take dedication and time management to balance with your current schedule.

2. Startup Costs

Real estate is one of those careers where you are essentially launching your own small business, and that means upfront costs. Beyond licensing and exam fees, you’ll need to budget for MLS dues, brokerage fees, business cards, marketing tools, and possibly continuing education. It’s smart to set aside at least 3–6 months of living expenses before going full-time so you can focus on growing your business instead of worrying about cash flow.

3. Picking the Right Brokerage

Choosing the right brokerage is one of the most important decisions you’ll make early on. Some brokerages provide extensive training, mentorship, and team support, while others give agents more independence but fewer resources. Consider what matters most to you. Do you want a collaborative environment, one-on-one coaching, or the freedom to build your own brand? The brokerage you choose will shape your first year, so it’s worth researching carefully.

4. Building Your Pipeline

Real estate is not a “list it and they will come” type of business. The agents who thrive are the ones who consistently prospect, network, and follow up. Building a pipeline of clients means connecting with people daily, whether through open houses, social media, referrals, or community involvement. Even when business is slow, the most successful agents keep planting seeds so that they always have deals in the pipeline.

5. Mindset & Commitment

Real estate can be extremely rewarding, but it’s also challenging. Deals can fall through, buyers can change their minds, and the hours aren’t always predictable. Nights and weekends are often part of the job, especially when clients are off work. That’s why having the right mindset is crucial. Treating real estate as a business, staying resilient through setbacks, and committing to continuous learning will set you apart in the long run.

Final Thoughts

Starting a real estate career is more than just getting a license. It’s about building a business, developing relationships, and staying committed to growth. If you’re motivated, resilient, and willing to put in the work, real estate can be a career that not only changes your life but also impacts the lives of those you serve.

At the Nelson Group, we’re always happy to share what we’ve learned with aspiring agents. If you’re curious about the business and what it takes to thrive, reach out. We’d love to help you explore your next steps.