Jobs to get started in real estate?

Question

Hey everyone! I'm looking into getting started in real estate investing, but would like to get a job in the field to learn the ropes before starting to invest myself. If I don't have any specific real estate experience, what kind of jobs should I be looking for to build experience and connections? I am planning on getting a real estate license. I've also read a lot and listened to most of the BP podcasts.

Mike Alder · Answer

@Chris Zwakenberg

I recently had someone contact me that wanted to learn how to wholesale properties in Cleveland. She offered to place bandit signs, place ads, shoot the property video and take all the still shots in exchange to show her how to get properties under contract to sell. You could do something similar in your city. Join your local REIA group find a local successful investor here on BP and offer your time in exchange for their knowledge. If you find them a great deal negotiate a piece of the profit for your efforts

Benjamin Ellis · Answer

Hi @Winona Wyatt and @Chris Zwakenberg I am new to RE too.  Although I haven't completed my first deal yet, I am getting myself active, and in the game.  I guess it depends on what niche of Real Estate you want to specialize in.  There are so many different avenues you can travel in in Real Estate that sometimes one may have to consider taking an actual job in RE to help learn.  However, for most of what I've seen and read, most people jump right in.  Just like swimming, whereas some people jump straight in without checking the temperature vs. those that conservatively put their foot in to check, the objective is to get in in the manner you are most comfortable.

At least you are considering taking a job in the field....many newbies attempt to buy into some guru's system; buying into something they could have found free (or much, much cheaper elsewhere).  Find a mentor and/or partner with someone that is experienced.  They may want 50% of the deal, but its better than 100% of nothing you would get sitting on the sideline.

Definitely utilize Bigger Pockets for all it has to offer.  There is a ton of info, and experienced people, on this site.  @Joshua Dorkin and @brandon turner created something special here!

Best of luck!

Ben

Account Closed · Answer

Great luck and welcome to the site, I am about 30 minutes from Philly and two hours from DC.

Michael Nemeth · Answer

@Chris Zwakenberg  You're already in the right place to find contacts.  Use BP to find, follow and connect with people doing what you think you might like.  Then hit them up for info, coffee and/or offer to help with some low-level work if they need it.

Good for you getting your license, too.  I know there is some debate about whether it is good to have or not.  But learning and understanding is never a bad thing.

Once you have your license, you may want to see if there is a company in your neighborhood who could use a part-time Rental Agent for leasing.  The work is frustrating and, frankly, sucks.  (It's the ugly step-sister of sales.)  So people wanting the position are hard to find meaning you have an easy in and advantage if you are willing to dig in that field for a while.  (FYI - The rental market in DC ends about Thanksgiving and picks up in March so try to get in before holidays or look for a place to work in early Feb ahead of demand.)

You will learn several very important things doing rentals: how to manage your and others' time; how to kindly temper expectations; the "language" of a true prospect; and build real connections in a working environment.  Then it's just about adding to your collection of people you like and like to work with.

The last thing I'd say is understand the REALTOR approach is really just one approach to real estate.  It's good to know but it's not the only way to work in RE investing and not the only tool you should use and know.

Good luck.  Stay active.

Johnson Ejalu · Answer

Welcomes to BP @Chris Zwakenberg .  I have a license and I do agree that getting a RE license is a good start. In my opinion it's very helpful especially to new investors. If used correctly it will help you learn a lot and potentially open doors for you. Apart form being a realtor there are many other RE related jobs you can pursue especially with a license, the key is knowing what you want for yourself, having goals and then figuring out what aspect of the RE profession will help you achieve your goals. Real estate is very broad so unless you narrow it down you can find yourself wasting a lot of time and effort only to find yourself scattered all over.

Emilio Rodriguez · Answer

Hi Chris;

I'm from the same area, similar situation as yours. I wish I could provide more help than just support, but I have no experience yet.

Good luck!

Jobs to get started in real estate?

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