Aspiring Agent with some Questions.

[Sean Mooneyham]

Hello,
I'm currently a construction worker, been so for 10 years now and I'm absolutely sick of my job. It's dirty, it's loud, and dangerous. I would like to live past 63, and I'm tired of sitting in a porta-john. I have had a developing interest in real estate for the past few years. I would like to make the transition to becoming a real estate agent however I want to make sure I do it the right way.

My plan is to take real estate classes, pass the test, get sponsorship by a broker and receive my license. As of that time, my plan is to maintain my job as a construction worker for consistent revenue (have a family) and work real estate with most of my extra time (M-F late afternoon and evenings, Sat-Sun all day) While I will be doing real estate "part time" I will be able to put in close to 40 hrs/week.

Once I am able to establish a base and feel comfortable in my earnings I will drop the construction and go full time. What I would like to know from those with experience in the business, is what kind of advice do you have? Any advice for overcoming the pitfalls of being a "part time" realtor? I have read that "part time" is often frowned upon. Again my intent is to become full time. Are there any books that you recommend? Magazine subscriptions? Additional classes that can be taken at a community college to help with the understanding of real estate?
Thanks in advance!