Updated: November 19, 2015
Once you've completed your required education, passed your state's real estate licensing exam, and chosen a broker to hang your license with, you're ready to begin your career! But there may be additional steps you need to take. Does your state require any additional education for newly licensed agents? Does your broker offer any training for new agents? How will you build your leads list and get your first listing?
Strong negotiation skills are essential to success as a real estate salesperson. Knowing all of the factors that affect how you negotiate can create additional value for your buyers and sellers, and also lead to a bigger commission payday for you. Polish your skills with this 17-tip guide to successful real estate negotiation.
If your state requires post-licensing or first renewal courses, it's wise to start these sooner than later. They're generally designed to encompass everything a first-year agent is supposed to know in real estate, so don't put off the education. In fact, you'll find that you can further your career faster doing education than just about anything else.
Complete any and all new agent training your broker offers. The good news is you're probably not the first person going through the training program, and some brokerages offer extensive new agent training programs. Take advantage. Go through it all. It will get you up to speed faster and quicker than just about anything else. Begin spreading the word within your sphere of influence. People like to work with people they know, and the first listing is always the toughest one to get. Get the word out to people you know. You are now their go-to when buying or selling a home.
