Is being a REALTOR® a hard job? It can be extremely rewarding and demanding at the same time. Real estate agents can be successful and have a lot of freedom. That does not mean it is an easy career or that everyone succeeds. It takes hard work, dedication, and perseverance to become a successful real estate agent. You must take classes, pass a state test, and find a broker to sponsor you. Once you get your license, the training begins. You will learn to sell houses, know the ins and outs of listing and purchase agreements and always work in the best interest of your buyers and sellers. If you can make it through the licensing process and the first few months, real estate can be a great career.
Being successful and making a sustainable income as a real estate agent is hard work and, in most cases, it requires a substantial commitment of time and effort. REALTORS® do not work from 9 to 5. In this market, of multiple offers and showings, many of us are working 7 days a week and many long hours. You must be ready to show at a moment’s notice.
One of the hardest things about being in real estate, for newer agents, is the financial aspect. It is financially challenging because most people are used to salaried positions. They are accustomed to getting a paycheck every two weeks after putting in a certain amount of work. The REALTOR® is the last one to get paid. If the transaction falls through, we do not get a commission. You must develop a strict budget to be prepared for such instances.
We often wear multiple “hats”. We are advertisers, counselors, cleaners, jugglers and more. We must figure out marketing budgets, methods, branding, and generating leads all while trying to pay the bills. When working with multiple buyers and sellers, it can sometimes be overwhelming, so you need to be organized. As a REALTOR®, it is important to keep track of your transactions and communicate often with your buyers and sellers.
Because we are constantly growing our business, we feel the need to work all the time. There is always more work that could be completed. This creates a compulsion to work as hard as possible and a feeling of ‘slacking off’ when trying to relax. We work on our vacations, during family dinners and events often taking away from quality time with our loved ones.
What are the benefits of becoming a REALTOR®? We meet some awesome people from all over the state and country. We get to help people buy and sell homes to fulfill their dreams of homeownership. Everyone has a different story. Whether they are first time homebuyers, relocating to a warmer client or downsizing due to becoming an empty nester, the REALTOR® is there to help! So, if you are ready for a career change, check out the West Virginia Real Estate Commission for more information.
The market in North Central West Virginia is hot! Find your REALTOR® and make your move today! Have a great week of sunshine and remember to do good things!
Stephanie Lemley, 2021 MBOR President
