Hi, Im 18 and Ive just recentely taken a real estate course. In the next month I plan on taking the california state test. I would appreciate any valuable advice from someone with knowledge of this field. Thanks!
2007-01-08 10:41:45 · 5 answers · asked by 11223344 1 in Business & Finance ➔ Renting & Real Estate
Find a successful agent to mentor you, or become a licensed assistant to a successful agent. Either is invaluable towards your success.
Also, take as many classes as you can - keep up on all of the new information. An informed Realtor is a busy one.
Best of luck!
2007-01-08 10:51:17 · answer #1 · answered by trblmkr30 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I got my California license three years ago and have been a full time real estate agent ever since. Word of advice: Take a "cram course" the weekend before your test date. Because by the time your test date rolls around, you will have forgotten much of what you learned.
Also, don't waste too much time on the math, if you are not good with math. All versions of the California test have a very small number of questions that force you to use the math.
DO take all of the practice quizzes at the end of each chapter of your textbooks. If you didn't do this while taking the class or while reading the book(s) then I recommend you go back, re-read each chapter, and then take the practice test. Then go back through and review your answers, especially which ones you got wrong and why.
Your first year expect to make little or no money. Make sure you have financial reserves (or a spouse supporting you) to survive that first year. I only closed four transactions my first year and that was way better than average. And it was not nearly enough to live on. Especially with all the other expenses: Association of Realtor's dues, MLS fees, business cards, professional photo, open house signs and business supplies, etc.
My other and perhaps most important piece of advice: When deciding what broker to work for, make sure they offer PLENTY OF FREE TRAINING. Because what you learn in getting the license and what you actually need to know in order to be successful are two entirely different things for the most part. It might help if you pick a broker that is larger, perhaps a well known name like Century 21 or Re/Max (but not necessarily) but definitely a broker where there are a minimum of thirty or forty agents employed, so you know they have a training program in place. Of secondary importance is the commission split structure.
Lastly, be prepared to work your butt off. People get into this business thinking it's easy money, and it is absolutely NOT!! Your earning potential is virtually unlimited, but you will earn every penny of it and then some. Trust me. This might be why over 80% of new agents in California fail in the first year and move on to some other type of employment. If you are not self-motivated, and aren't willing to put in the effort to succeed, do yourself a favor and quit now. But if you're willing to do what it takes, then good luck and I hope you do great!
2007-01-08 10:56:20 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
A seasoned agent should be better at negotiating on your behalf but ultimately, the price you pay for a new house is up to the people selling it, not anyone's connections. My last agent had only been in the business for a short time but I really felt she did a good job. Remember you can always spend a few "shopping" trips with this agent and get someone else if you aren't happy. I don't believe you have to sign any contract that will bind you to that person. A good agent is going to give you a lot of options to choose from and not push you into making a decision, especially one you can't afford. Just take a step back and analyze this agent's behavior occasionally and you'll be fine. I also suggest reading "Home Buying for Dummies." I thought that was very helpful. Good luck.
2016-05-23 15:19:32 · answer #3 · answered by Renee 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The best advice I can give, is choose the correct broker to work for. This is goining to be the most important decision you make. You need to find someone that does not carge you a ton of money to work for them, provides training, and gives you a good split. If one of these three things is off, your chances of success will dwindle. If your in San Diego I need people. I offer 70% splits, no desk fees and training for new agents. Call Ron @ 619-379-2063.
2007-01-08 11:09:51 · answer #4 · answered by Ron B 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If your in Vegas--- come to Liberty-- the largest and Best real estate company in Nevada.
2007-01-08 11:12:51 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋