Balancing real estate sale with real estate investment

[Heriberto Villa]

Hello,

I'm a real estate agent in NYC. I have been trying to purchase my first investment for some time now. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to balance my career and looking for a personal deal. I find myself frequently working for my clients instead of myself. As a real estate agent, I don't get paid unless I close deals. Recently I've been thinking of switching careers that are salary-based. Can anyone here offer some advice?

[Tim Johnson]

@Heriberto Villa - being an agent is a great route to REI. It can help you see markets, hone skills, network with handymen, contractors, prop managers, lenders, other investors, etc.

If, however, you're struggling with income inconsistency and nonproductive work days, it DOES bring a grinding halt to your own investing.... and life in general! A switch to a W-2 job may bring that consistency in monthly income - but will also bring with it a host of other schedule and stress-producing issues. Most folks on BP dream of moving away from their W-2 jobs and into REI full-time.

I would focus on serving your clients and building up your agent business - while learning investment. If, in the end, being an agent just isn't what brings you any joy - then, yes, find some other work that will provide that cash to invest.

Best wishes...