Becoming an agent as a second, part time job

[Billy Daniel]

My wife and I have been interested in the real estate business for some time now.  My question is, can I maintain my current full time job and work as an agent at night and on weekends?  My main goal is to get my feet wet in the industry and move on to investing.  Any advice?

Oh, I'm also curious what the average time it takes to close your first deal.  I've heard 3 months is pretty average.  I know it depends on several factors, but I'd like any input you could offer.

[Lorissha Coburn]

Hi,I'm kind of in the same boat you are. Although,I actually am pre-licensed all I need to do is pass the National Exam! which crossing my fingers I shall schedule to take before the month is out. Currently working an non-related real estate job which I am sad to say has not only hindered the  real estate career but causes other conflicts.  I may not have the job in a couple of weeks. My significant other is an chauffeur and our schedules clash besides honestly sitting at a  office job where I am not earning alot bugs the heck out of him. O.k I am bugged too,I would love to make my own schedule,not succumb to the life of a worker bee. Bringing honey to the queen only to get a little taste of someone elses success. The plan was always real estate and my husband also wants to get licensed at least as a leasing agent.  We both have a background hand in the market but in our state licenses are the way to go! We have a market that we can help underserved individuals and investors who decide to become landlords. 

But I know real estate can be an career where there may be alot of time with no pay. Being a independent  contractor that is expected. However,becoming licensed means more than buying and selling and leasing. For example,I can also manage properties.

Currently,I haven't yet quit the day job but sure as heck regret I spent so much time working for a paycheck from a company that will never respect or pay me for my worth. They hire you for one thing when I am capable of so much more. It still isn't real estate :(

I want to work with the industry starting today,so to ease the transition I offer the business service I started  which is virtual assistance. So even unlicensed you can do something which puts you where you need to be. I even see my virtual assistance as a side business even when I obtain my license.