Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Real Estate Agent
Curious how to kickstart a real estate career?
Here’s your complete guide—from getting licensed to becoming a top agent.
What Does a Real Estate Agent Do?
A real estate agent makes homeownership dreams a reality.
Their tasks include:
Understanding client needs
Organizing open houses
Negotiating offers
Filling out contracts
Step 1: Decide If It’s Right for You
Do you like people?
You may be a good fit if you:
✅ Communicate well
✅ Can handle slow periods
✅ Have the confidence to sell
Step 2: Meet the Basic Requirements
Most places require:
You must be legally an adult
High school diploma or GED
No serious criminal record
Check with your local board for exact rules.
Complete Pre-Licensing Education
You’ll learn:
Ethics and disclosure rules
Contracts and forms
How to market yourself
Courses are available:
???? Self-paced or scheduled
⏱️ Weeks to months depending on your location
Prove You Know Your Stuff
The exam tests you on:
✔️ Real estate terminology
✔️ Ownership types
✔️ Real-world scenarios
✔️ Client representation
You can retake it.
Step 5: Apply for Your License
To get licensed, you’ll need to:
???? Submit application
???? Pay licensing fees
???? Pass another background check
Once approved—you’re official!
Find a Broker to Work Under
You can’t operate solo right away.
A broker trains you. Ask:
???? How much will I keep per sale?
???? Do you help new agents?
???? Are leads provided?
Get read more Your First Clients
How to find clients:
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???? Create a Facebook page or TikTok
???? Attend events
???? Work with your broker’s leads
Advance Your Real Estate Career
The best agents:
???? Take continuing education
???? Track market trends
???? Follow up with past clients
Real Estate Agent Salary Breakdown
Agents earn through commission, not salary.
???? Example:
Home price: $400,000
Commission: split evenly between buyer and seller agents
Agent’s share: ~$7,500 after broker cut
The more homes you sell, the more you make.
Is It Worth It?
✅ Pros:
Flexible schedule
No income ceiling
You help people daily
❌ Cons:
No guaranteed paycheck
Weekend work
High competition
Final Thoughts on Becoming a Real Estate Agent
Now you know how to become a real estate agent—from zero to licensed pro.
???? Take action.
???? Keep learning.
???? Start building your business.
Your future in real estate starts now.