Career Choice after You Pass the Real Estate License Exam

Getting your real estate license is just the first step in your career as a real estate agent. Once you get your license, you will then need to find a sponsoring broker. This person is responsible for everything that you do, and you will need to pay that person a fee to be your sponsor. In addition, you will need to take additional real estate agent classes to enhance your skills.

How Do You Become a Realtor?

To become a realtor, you will need to complete your education and get an initial license. This shows that you have a working knowledge of applicable laws and best practices related to your field. However, you will also need to take classes that teach you how to market, how to appraise a property and how to search through the MLS database. From there, you will simply need to gain experience to learn what works and what doesn't as an agent. 

Make Sure Your Licensing Information Is Accurate

A potential client, sponsoring agent or government official may conduct a real estate licence check at any time. Therefore, make sure that your information is up-to-date and accurate at all times. If it isn't you could face professional and legal issues that could derail your career. When you look for a sponsoring agent, you may want to do a check on that agent to make sure that you are working for a legitimate sponsor.

How Do You Choose a Broker to Work With?

Ultimately, your ability to sell houses has more to do with your personality and ability to sell as much as the broker that you work with. Large brokers such as Century 21 or ReMax may charge higher fees, but you get the credibility that comes with working for a name brand broker. On the other hand, smaller brokers will charge less but will also come with less name recognition.

It is common for sponsors to charge either a flat fee each month or take 30 percent from each commission that you generate. Those who want to make the bulk of their money through commissions may want to opt for a split while those who will make their money elsewhere may want the convenience of a flat fee. Before choosing an broker, make sure to talk to several to get an idea of their fees and other requirements.

You Don't Get Access to MLS Data Without a Sponsor

If you don't have a sponsor, you won't get access to the data that you need to make a sale on a regular basis. This means that you can't look up information in an MLS database or get more than limited information about previous sales other than what might already be in the public record. Therefore, it is in your best interest to find your sponsor quickly regardless of how well you think you can do on your own.

Would You Rather Be a Property Manager Instead?

Those who own properties need people who can manage them in an effective and profitable manner. In addition to being a good real estate agent, you will also need to be able to screen tenants, handle maintenance issues and build relationships with property owners and residents. Taking one or more property manager course can help you obtain a property management certificate, which could give you more options as you progress in your chosen field.

If your career choice involves buying and selling homes and other buildings for a living, it is important that you understand how to get started. Getting your license is great, but it is only one step that you must take. Don't delay in getting sponsored and continuing your education to make sure that you get the most from the time and money you have already spent.