Becoming A Real Estate Agent

[Justin Morris]

Hi All,

I'm taking the plunge and have made the decision to become a RE agent. I would like to use it as a jumping off point into REI, by learning the industry, making some money and doing some networking. Eventually, I would like to branch out into rehabbing houses and rentals. My wife and I are moving to Tampa, FL and I am wondering if it is best for me to do a REA pre exam course at a school or is it better to just apply for the many open positions at somewhere like Keller Williams who will pay for my license. Also, what are the best firms out there to work for? I understand the pros and cons of being an Agent and know what I'm jumping into so please I would love some "constructive feedback". If you have nothing but negative things to say about being a RE Agent, I'd respectfully ask you to keep it to yourself. Thanks so much everyone!

[Carrie Hiner]

Hey Justin! 

I left my corporate day job as a business analyst three years ago so I could do real estate full time.  I started at Keller Williams and couldn't be more grateful for the training and education they offer.  Although I moved to a smaller, boutique brokerage specializing in property management and investments, the year I spent at KW provided a fundamental foundation in real estate practice, managing your own "business", contract law, lead generation and industry news.  They do not pay for you to get your license.  They had a few license education provider discounts (mine total costs for materials, courses, testing and initial 30 day training at KW was about $1000).  Totally worth it.  KW focuses more on the retail side of real estate, not much on tips/tricks of investing, but again, a great place to start.  Best of luck to your upcoming moves - to Florida and career changes.