Real Estate Agent - Supplemental Income

[Andreana Gallagher]

Hello Bigger Pockets community!

A while back I posted a question about how to get my start in REI, specifically regarding the impact of a real estate license. I got a lot of great feedback! As I sit on the topic some more, I am beginning to think that I want to enter the world of real estate as a real estate agent. This is not an off-the-cuff decision. I have known for a while that real estate is the field in which I would like to build a successful career for myself and have been looking into the avenues I can take to do so.

That said, my concern is that real estate agents' income is commission based.  I wish that money did not have to be a concern, but the harsh reality is that it is a major concern.  So, my question is this: How much (on average) does a full-time first-year residential agent make?  Should I get my license and become an agent, would I need to have a second job/source of income for the first few years?

I've Googled some facts and figures, but I trust you all, as people who have been there-done that, moreso that I do internet results. 

Thank you in advance! Be as critical and realistic as you need to be!

PS - For what it's worth, I am debating between getting my license and becoming an agent or getting involved with property management.  I am striving for something where I can be face-to-face with clients and people... I absolutely do not want to sit at a desk all day, everyday.