How to Become a Real Estate Agent with No Experience

Starting a career in real estate can seem overwhelming, especially if you have no prior experience. But don’t worry; real estate is one of the few industries where you can start fresh and build a successful career with the proper steps and mindset. In fact, many experienced real estate professionals began their careers without any experience at all!

This guide will take you through the essential steps of how to become a real estate agent with no experience, as well as give you tips to get hired and thrive in this competitive industry.

What does a real estate agent do?

Before getting into the steps to get hired, there is a need to understand what a real estate agent does. A real estate agent’s main job is to assist clients in buying, selling, or renting properties. Here is a breakdown of typical responsibilities you will handle:

• Communication: You will engage in dialogue with the clients to work closely with them to understand their needs for either buying a home, selling a property, or leasing space.
• Property Search and Location: Agents research properties that match the client’s needs and arrange viewings.
• Offer negotiation: You will also be involved in helping clients make and negotiate offers to get them the best deal.
• Paperwork management: preparation, review, and signing of contracts, deeds, and other documents affecting real estate.
• Networking and marketing: You’ll also build relationships with other professionals (e.g., lawyers, inspectors) and market properties through listings and open houses.

If it is your passion to help people find their dream home or further investment properties, then real estate could be such a rewarding career.

How to get hired as a real estate agent with no experience

Becoming a real estate agent is achievable with a well-defined roadmap. Your journey from ‘novice’ to ‘experienced real estate agent’ involves education, licensing, networking, and commitment. Following is a step-by-step guide on how to get hired as a real estate agent, even from scratch:

Step 1: Meet the educational and licensing requirements

While you don’t need a formal college degree to become a real estate agent, you must have at least a high school diploma or GED.

Pre-licensing education: Most states would not let anyone sit for a license examination before completing specific hours in pre-licensing courses on the subjects of real estate laws, ethics, finance, and property management.

Besides education, most minimum requirements differ according to a particular state statute. Example:

• Age: Most states require that applicants be at least 18, 19, or even 21 years of age in some cases.
• Background checks: Many states require a background check, including fingerprints.
• Licensing fees: It encompasses various charges related to the licensing exam as well as the application process for obtaining your real estate license, with costs generally falling between $200 and $500.

Step 2: Pass the real estate licensing exam

The real estate licensing exam can be challenging, especially if you’re new to the industry. Here’s how to prepare:

• Format: Understand that most real estate exams are based on a combination of national questions and state-specific questions.
  A useful way of getting familiar with the structure of the exam is through study guides, review materials, and free real estate practice tests.
• Practice tests: Practice is the only key to boosting your confidence and success on test day. Do practice exams that simulate the actual test.

Preparation tip: Create a study schedule that allows for a daily review of your materials.

Actually, passing that examination is a sine qua non in receiving your license, but having some industry experience is not required for success. The secret is consistent preparation!

Step 3: Create an impressive resume and personal brand

Having acquired your license, the next thing would be creating an effective resume that will reflect the best qualities and potential in you, even without any real estate experience.

• Highlight transferrable skills: If you’ve worked in sales, customer service, or any job that required negotiation or organization, make sure these are prominently featured.
• Set career objectives: Incorporate distinct goals into your resume, such as assisting clients in locating properties that fulfill their requirements or expanding your expertise in particular real estate markets.
• Real estate branding: Remember, you’re also selling yourself as a real estate agent. Build the persona of an expert, friendly professional who will be worthy of trust. Create a professional LinkedIn profile to share your experience and goals with the world.

Step 4: Network, network, network

Building your professional network is crucial when starting out as a new real estate agent, especially without experience. Here’s how to expand your connections:

• Attend real estate networking events: Search for real estate conferences, seminars, or networking events that can connect you to experienced professionals. You would really learn things here, and there’s a chance that you could be introduced to job opportunities.
• Use social media: Platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and even Instagram are great for connecting with potential clients and fellow agents. Join local real estate groups and actively engage with others in the industry.
• Shadow experienced agents: Reach out to real estate agents in your area and ask if you can shadow them for a few days. This will help you learn the ropes while making important connections.

Alternative entry-level positions to get your foot in the door

If you’re finding it difficult to jump straight into a real estate agent role, consider starting in an entry-level position within a real estate agency or even thinking about other ways to leverage your real estate salesperson license. This allows you to learn the ins and outs of the industry while building your network and gaining hands-on experience.

Showing agent

One great option to get started is working as a showing agent. As a showing agent, you focus primarily on showing properties to clients on behalf of a licensed broker. This role is less about negotiating deals and more about helping clients explore their options. By working with potential buyers and answering questions, you can develop strong communication skills, understand what clients are looking for, and learn how to present properties effectively.

• Key benefits: You’ll gain valuable experience in client interaction, property presentation, and even learn more about the market in your area, all while building your reputation with brokers and clients.

Executive assistant in a brokerage

Another fantastic way to break into the industry is by working as an executive assistant at a real estate brokerage. This position allows you to learn from experienced professionals without needing to hold a real estate license. As an assistant, you’ll handle administrative tasks like managing appointments, organizing paperwork, and assisting with client communication. This behind-the-scenes work will give you an understanding of how real estate transactions are conducted, which is crucial knowledge for future success as an agent.

• Key benefits: You’ll build relationships with experienced real estate professionals, learn how the office operates, and potentially get promoted to an agent role down the line.

Starting in an entry-level position, whether as a showing agent or an executive assistant, can help you learn the business, develop valuable skills, and ease your transition into a full real estate agent role.

Pros and cons of working in real estate

Like any profession, real estate has its perks and challenges. Here’s a quick look at both:

Pros:

• High earning potential: Real estate agents often work on commission, meaning your income potential is unlimited.
• Flexible schedule: Many agents enjoy flexibility, allowing them to set their own hours and work at their own pace.
• Personal satisfaction: Helping clients find their dream home or make a profitable sale is incredibly rewarding.

Cons:

• Inconsistent income: Pay can fluctuate month to month, depending on the market and your sales.
• Competitive industry: The real estate field is highly competitive, especially in densely populated areas.
• No guaranteed benefits: Many agents work as independent contractors, so benefits like health insurance and retirement plans are typically not included.

Summary

The great thing about the real estate industry is that it’s open to anyone willing to put in the effort, even if you have no prior experience. By following these steps, you can build a successful career from the ground up. Remember, the key to success is persistence, networking, and continuously honing your skills.

If you’re preparing for your real estate licensing exams, consider Lexawise. With comprehensive study materials and free real estate practice tests, Lexawise is your go-to resource for exam preparation. Start your real estate career with confidence by getting the prep you need.