A brand-new real estate agent often complains that there is nothing to do. Some real estate brokerages will train new agents. Yet many times the sales agent is on her own, and has to figure things out herself. Later in a real estate agent's career the complaint is that there is not enough time to complete all the necessary tasks. For a new agent, time should be spent learning about the industry, the local market and becoming organized.
Instructions
1. Guard your reputation. A real estate agent's career often hinges on reputation. Live your life by the golden rule, promptly return phone calls, honor your promises and treat people with respect.
2. Learn the difference between a real estate agent and Realtor. Many new real estate agents believe once they get their license, they become Realtors. A Realtor is a member of a professional real estate organization. There are many benefits to joining. Depending on where you go to work, membership may be required by your broker. There is a fee associated with membership. Find out what your annual fees will be, along with additional local or MLS fees.
3. Find a broker. A real estate sales agent must work under a licensed broker. Before signing with a broker, come to an understanding on the percentage of your commission. Some brokers take a percentage of the agents' commissions, and some charge a transaction fee, desk fee or combination. Ask if the broker supplies Errors and Omission insurance. If not, you might want to get your own.
4. Investigate the terms of the lock boxes and signs. Some agents are required to provide their own lock boxes or for-sale signs. In some instances, it is provided by the broker. This information should be obtained from your prospective broker.
5. Get your own professional email address. Do not use a free email service, as it looks unprofessional. Unless it is required by your broker, do not use an email address supplied by your broker. For example, if you go to work for Sunny Real Estate Company, do not use JohnSmith@SunnyStateREC.com. Use one unique to you, one that you control. Real estate agents typically change companies from time to time. If you leave to go to another company, you want your clients to be able to easily contact you.
6. Get a cell phone and use that number on your riders. When you put up real estate signs on your listings, be sure to include a rider listing your cell phone number. This way the potential buyer may contact you rather than an office number listed on the sign.
7. Send a letter to all of your contacts. Make a list of friends, family, neighbors, community members, everyone you know. Send out letters letting them know what you are doing and contact you if they need your services.
8. Learn about the local inventory. You may not have clients at first, which will give you some free time. Take this time to get familiar with listings in your area. When someone does ask you for information, you will then sound informed.
9. Learn about the community. If buyers are new to the area, be able to answer their questions. This includes learning local history and available entertainment.
10. Take additional real estate courses. You will need renewal courses each year. While you have free time, start taking the classes right away. Look for classes that focus on improving sales. Later you may be too busy to fit in classes. Learning the information now will give you a jump start on your career.
11. Begin networking. Find ways to meet more people. Join community organizations and volunteer locally.
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