Real estate agent
Help people buy and sell homes, and build your own client list.
- Median pay
- $52,830 a year
- Cost to start
- $300 to $1,200
- Time to start
- 2 to 6 months
If you like people, enjoy a bit of hustle and want to be your own boss, real estate can be a great fit. You can get licensed in a few months without a college degree.
A day in the job
Most days mix time at your desk with time on the road. Mornings often go to answering messages, finding homes that match what your buyers want, and following up with people who might sell soon.
Afternoons and evenings are when clients are free, so that's when you show homes, meet sellers and host open houses. Weekends are busy.
You'll work under a licensed broker who helps with contracts and paperwork, especially in your first year.
Is this for you?
Good signs
- You enjoy meeting new people and don't mind reaching out first
- You can stay motivated without a boss checking on you
- You're okay with a schedule that changes week to week
- You can get by for a few months while your first deals come together
Maybe not, if
- You need a steady, predictable paycheck right away
- Weekends and evenings are off limits for you
- You'd rather not talk about money or negotiate
What it really pays
$52,830 a year (median)
The lowest-paid 10% earn about $32,970 or less, which is closer to where many beginners start.
Most agents are paid by commission, so the first year often earns less.
National median for all workers in this job, including experienced ones. Pay varies by state, employer and experience, and isn't guaranteed. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (opens in a new tab)
Agents are usually paid a share of the commission when a sale closes. Your first deal can take 2 to 6 months, so it helps to have savings or a part-time job while you build up.
Your path, step by step
Tick off each step as you go. We'll remember your progress on this device.
0 of 6 steps done
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Check your state's rules
Every state requires a pre-license course, from 40 to 180 hours. Pick your state below to see what yours asks for.
Rules last checked October 2026. Always confirm on your state's official site.
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Take the pre-license course
Most people take it online at their own pace. Make sure the course is approved for your state.
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Pass the state exam
The exam usually has a national part and a state part. Most courses include practice tests, and you can retake the exam if you need to.
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Get fingerprinted and apply
Your state will run a background check and you'll pay a license fee, usually $100 to $300 total.
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Join a brokerage
You need a sponsoring broker to work. Interview two or three. Ask about training, mentoring, and how commission is split.
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Find your first clients
Tell everyone you know. Host open houses for other agents in your office. Your first year is about building relationships.