New to Portland and Looking for Something Different

[Jacob Wathen]

Hello BP community, I graduated from college in 2016 with a BS in psychology and a minor in business. I just moved to SE Portland, OR a couple weeks ago and I am currently looking for a job that is related to real estate in the area. I know there are plenty of opportunities out there I am just trying to determine what I should look into that I am qualified for. I have one year experience with in-home sales for a home improvement company. I have 2 years of experience in the restaurant service industry. I did an internship with Habitat for Humanity during college and a few more months of experience in sales working directly with real estate agents and brokers. I believe my recent job experience and education has prepared me to become a real estate agent (after I take the courses/test). I just do not know the best route to take considering I am new to the area. For instance should I look for agents that need help with the leads they already have and work as a buyers agent or should I start from the bottom and work the few connections I have in the area and try to go at it alone. Other routes I am considering while I get more established in the area are to get involved in property management or with residential/commercial construction in some capacity. Whether that be assisting contractors/other investors, general labor, design, etc. I have a variety of interests when it comes to real estate and I just want to prepare myself to be a successful investor and to make my living doing something I am truly passionate about. I would really appreciate any suggestions from industry professionals near and far. Whether you know of a company or may have a better idea as to what I should be searching for when I am looking at craigslist, indeed, LinkedIn, etc. Thank you.