There are many advantages to becoming a real estate agent. One of these is that you can work a different schedule than what you would typically experience in a 9 to 5 job. This allows you to create a personalized schedule that works for both your clients and yourself. You can also earn money while helping others achieve their goals. This profession is rewarding both professionally and personally.
Even though becoming a real estate agent is a rewarding profession, it can also come with some challenges, especially when first starting out. In this post, we’ll talk about some of the common obstacles that new real estate agents face in their first year.
Challenge #1: Getting Used to Commission
One of the most common obstacles that new real estate agents face is realizing that they only get paid once they make a sale. It can take months before they make their first sale. Once your business has started to take off, you’ll start to receive more regular payments, but you’ll have to adjust to forfeiting an expected paycheck.
Before you start working in real estate, it’s important that you have the necessary financial support. Having the necessary resources will allow you to maintain a steady income while you build your business.
While it’s possible to continue working full-time while also doing part-time real estate, this practice is not ideal for the long term. Having a plan in place will allow you to transition into a full-time agent without it taking a financial toll on you or your family. One of the most important steps that you can take to start building a solid financial foundation is to set aside several months of living expenses prior to becoming an agent.
Challenge #2: Time Management
Unlike a traditional 9 to 5 job, you’ll not be able to work a traditional schedule. Instead, you’ll be able to create a schedule that works for both yourself and your clients. It’s up to you to make sure that you’re disciplined with your time.
Most real estate agents work whenever their clients are available, which can often mean weekends and evenings. You should create a flexible schedule that allows you to complete important tasks while also staying available to your clients. Doing so will allow you to focus on the core of your business.
Challenge #3: Adapting to Dealing With Different Personalities
Aside from handling expectations from generally pleasant clients, you’ll also have to deal with some challenging situations. You may not have the same communication styles or have a personality that clashes with your clients’. One day, you’ll encounter a client who is not happy with how you’re handling their situation, and you’ll have to learn how to handle that professionally in order to please the client and not negatively impact your business.