New to Real Estate, where to begin?

Question

Hi everyone!

My name is Kelly and I am in the beginning stages of my real estate career. I am very close to getting my real estate license within the next couple months. I am so happy to have found the BiggerPockets podcast and the community that surrounds it.

Any advice on what to do prior to getting license? Do you recommend trying to find a broker/agent to assist for just to get your foot in the door and learn as much as you can?

I am located in Orange County, CA and would love to connect with any agents and hear your thoughts!

Thank you!

Brad Miller · Answer

Agreed with interviewing different brokerages. But do not focus solely on the "split". Too many people focus on the money and neglect to see how the brokerage is going to support and train you. There is more than just money involved. It might be hard to tell during COVID but see what the culture of the office is like, what kind of community involvement is there, what is the reputation in the industry as well as online. You are new so you will be doing a lot of continuing ed. Make sure the broker has support for that and a good mentoring program. As mentioned above, tell everyone you know (without being annoying) that you are in real estate. It's not who you know but who they know that matters. On a personal note please make sure you are responsive and organized. It is so frustrating to deal with lazy agents these days. It makes the process more frustrating when you can't get the documents you need or get any response from the other agent. Also, don't be afraid to pick up the phone and talk to the other agent. It's EXTREAMLY important to develop a good report with the "other side". It can make all the difference. Always remember you are not in the house business, you are in the people business. You are a realtor but also an advisor, educator, counselor and phycologist, etc. This business is so much more than just putting a sign in the yard or opening doors. Good luck with your test and your pursuit of real estate.

Bruce Lynn · Answer

@Kelly Vo I've heard CA exam is backed up. One guy posted on here that he just looked several times a day until he found a cancellation. If I remember right he said it was backed up 2-3 months. Someone else told me to check right after midnight and again right after 2am, when maybe the system gets updated.Best wishes and good luck.Also you're probably smart enough not to need it, but I always suggest people take the prep class before they take the exam. You don't want to have to take it twice.

Kelly Vo · Answer

@Joe HomsHi Joe!Thanks for the response! How would you recommend finding local investors?Also how do you recommend finding a brokerage to apply at without a license? Is the correct way going in person and dropping off resumes or emailing brokerages?

Joe Homs · Answer

@Kelly Vo welcome to BP here in the OC. Yes you can get started now. There are many things to learn while you are waiting on a test date. Reach out to a local investor to begin your training. I would also look to join a brokerage, not for what they have to offer, but who is willing to mentor you to become successful. Training is great and yes you will need to learn the basics, but get some training on what is happening today. Are short sales coming back in the next few months? Do you want to work with investors? Are you interesting in wholesaling or at least learning about it? Traditional Real Estate? I can go on and on. Good luck on taking the exam. I would make sure that you are getting at least 90% on all your practice exams and if you need a Prep Course make sure you take one right before your test.Good investing...

Kelly Vo · Answer

@Brad Miller Thanks so much for taking the time to respond. I will follow your advice and I’m excited to get in the business!

Kelly Vo · Answer

@Nathan G.Will brokers hire you before you even have your license? I got my application accepted over a month ago and due to COVID they still have not released any new test dates yet.Thank you for the advice and taking the time to respond!

Kelly Vo · Answer

@Bruce Lynn Thanks for the advice Bruce! I will definitely get started on all that now!Unfortunately, due to COVID the wait for state exam tests are very delayed, so I’m still checking everyday for that. Hoping to get my license starting the new year.

Nathan Gesner · Answer

You can read "Real Estate Millionaire" by Gary Keller, co-founder of Keller Williams. He shows exactly what you need to do. Unfortunately, very few people actually put in the effort, even after reading his book.

Nathan Gesner · Answer

Yes, start looking for a Broker immediately so you're not rushed. You should look for a Broker that is going to provide quality training and get you rolling. The vast majority of agents show up on their first day and realize they have no idea how to get clients or what they should be doing all day. The other agents won't be much help because they want to run their own business. It's very important you understand it is your responsibility to seek training and build your business; nobody will do it for you.

Bruce Lynn · Answer

You can start interviewing brokers now.Maybe you can get in on a new hire class early in January.You can make a list of the people you will contact day 1 that you have your license who will do business with you.Make sure you have phone #s, emails, complete addresses for the people you will contact.Think about who will buy or sell with you soon.....who's moving, who's starting new jobs, who's getting married, who is retiring, who can refer you business.