Real Estate Agent Definition
A real estate agent acts as an intermediary between a buyer and a seller in a property transaction. Whether dealing with residential, commercial, or industrial properties, the role of a licensed professional is extremely important, which is why the real estate sales industry is one of the most popular among job seekers today.
The new licensed agents are employed by companies run by brokers. No matter where in the world you live, you can always find sellers who want to sell and buyers who want to buy. Training requirements and licensing regulations to become an agent vary from state to state in the US and also from country to country.
real estate jobs
There are a variety of job opportunities available to people who are interested in pursuing a career in property sales. As long as you meet the requirements and have completed the appropriate training (again, license requirements depend on your geographic location), you are one step closer to being hired.
Whether through a private brokerage looking to hire their own agents or a company that offers rental property management, business exchange, investment services or land development, your chances of getting hired are excellent.
Get your license
Every state requires an agent to be licensed, without a license you are breaking the law.
Most states require that you first obtain a license before joining a brokerage as an agent. In other states, a new agent must obtain a sponsoring brokerage before being licensed.
The steps vary from state to state, but generally involve minimum age and education requirements, as well as application and other state-specific fees. Licensing requirements also involve extensive coursework and passing a state exam.
How much does it cost to get a real estate license?
Making a commitment to a career in property sales also includes a number of financial considerations. In general, students will be required to pay course and exam fees, license fees, and state-specific fees.
The costs associated with obtaining a real estate license vary from state to state.
The following is a sample of various beginning and continuing budget line items that should be considered:
- Licensing Course Fees
- License Registration Fees
- Background Check Fee
- Board/State Fees
- Brokerage Desk Fees
- insurance rates
- training fees
- continuing education fees
- Advertising and marketing costs (for example, business cards, professional signage, website design and hosting, flyers and brochures)
- Communication costs (for example, telephone, computer, printer, Internet access)
- Transportation costs (for example, car payments, insurance, gas)