Consider yourself as a good salesperson? Then why not give real estate business a shot? How about becoming a real estate agent? A career as a real estate agent offers a good flow of income, with flexible work hours and you be your own boss.

As interesting as the job might sound, becoming a real estate agent is not everyone’s cup of tea. So before you jump into the business, ask yourself if you are really interested in it. It’s about dealing with a huge amount of task in your everyday life which varies from your own office management, never-ending paperwork, generating leads, developing relationships with your clients and maintaining them, managing contacts, and dealing with buyers and sellers. If this excites you and if your answer is ‘yes’, then here is a detailed guide on ‘how to become a real estate agent’.

Okay, if you are too ambitious in life and want to a become real estate agent even before you turn 18, then that’s not happening. You need to get your real estate license before you become a successful real estate agent and that requires your age to be at least 18 years or more for some states. Next and the most important criteria is you need to be a legal resident of the particular country where you want to practice your business with proper proof of your residency. Though some countries and states offer reciprocal licensing agreements, which means you can get your license in one state and use it in another without having to take an additional license examination. This varies from state to state and country to country. So you need to do your research based on which country you want to practise your business.

With the above criteria in place, you can start preparing for real estate license examination. Yes, to get your license, you need to clear the examination. Though every country or state might have their own set of rules and regulations for real estate licensing process, clearing the examination stands mandatory for all. If you are not sure about how to prepare for the examination, there are several online and offline accredited real estate licensing schools which will guide you through the course. The duration of the course varies from place to place. Once the course is over, you need to register for the exam, which involves certain documentation along with a fee. On clearing the exam, you will receive your real estate license certificate and become a member of your state and local Multiple Listing Services.

There it is, you are good to go!

Next, you need to find a broker to practice with and complete the final paperwork, on completion of which, you will get your trading license. Some states ask the candidates to find a broker even before sitting for the real estate license examination. These are the small researches you need to do before getting into the process. But keep in mind that you may not be able to work as a real estate agent independently for the first few years and have to simply work under your selected broker. So be careful while selecting your broker and do your homework on the reputation of the company. Moreover, it depends upon the broker, what percentage of the real estate sales commission you will earn from your practice. Some brokers even ask you to pay for your desk as well.

For better success and flawless business, familiarise yourself with the real estate and federal laws of your state. Since the laws vary according to states, you need to be very specific about this. Any anomaly can lead to a major loss in your business. Moreover, as a new real estate agent, you need to get your marketing game straight. Develop your business website and make sure it is unique and professional. If needed seek the help of web developers. Get your business cards printed! And yes, promote yourself and your business. Go old-school and print some fliers. There are people who still read those. Use the power of social media and advertise on your new business. And the most crucial part, build and grow your personal networking. Start interacting with potential buyers and sellers, and in no time, you will find yourself sailing smoothly through the business!

To become a successful real estate agent, all it takes is to do thorough research, take some clever decisions and a do lot of hard work.