What were some challenges you faced as a new agent?

Question

As I press through my pre-licensing course I begin to think about the "unknown" as I pursue a career as an agent. For agents that have been in the game for a while, what are some challenges you faced as a new agent? When did you decide to commit to RE full time? What are some things you wish you could have done differently? What are some challenges I should prepare to face as a new agent? As excited as I am to begin this journey, I also have a few doubts that I am trying to overcome.

Any and all advice/commentary is welcomed.

Account Closed · Answer

What @Sarah Ziehr said.

I believe the best way to learn is hands-on experience. I would suggest finding a mentor. Perhaps act as an assistant?

Oh, and TAXES. Be sure you are putting away money for taxes with every commission check so you aren't surprised at the end of the year come tax time!

I have a separate tax savings account and deposit money into it as soon as the check hits my account. I also have the account view disabled on my bank homepage so I completely forget the money is even there!

Sarah Ziehr · Answer

Biggest Challenges-

1. You don't know what you don't know. I've been licensed since 2010 and I still learn new things every day.

2. Cash flow issues.

Russell Brazil · Answer

I did not make the leap into becoming an agent full time until I had a rental portfolio in place that provided enough income to pay my living expenses.  I firmly believe that if you treat being an agent as a small business as opposed to a job that you have a better chance of success. However treating it like a business means you may not be able to draw a salary for a long time. What revenue is generated should be put back into growing the business initially.  Being a successful agent takes time and capital.  Many do not have that luxury which is why there is a high failure rate for the industry.

Shane Hedeen · Answer

Lisa,

Wonderful questions. I too, am currently going through licensure while working full time. I am considering shifting into an agent role in the near future, and have wondered everything you wonder. There is a lot of great stuff here on BP. I have also found another podcast, called Super Agents Live, that I'm listening to when I workout or have free time. The podcast host (honestly can't think of his name at moment), interviews top real estate agents and talks to each of them about their challenges, successes, etc. I would highly recommend giving that a listen as it's insight from people in the business. Wish I had more direct insight from experience, but being in your shoes right now, the best thing you can do is be persistent, follow your dreams and always continue to learn more each day! Best of luck as you go through the process!!!

Lisa Jones · Answer

@Shane Hedeen I really do appreciate your feedback! I will definately look into that podcast. See, that's why I enjoy forums like this because SOMEONE always have helpful advice to give. Thanks again shane! I appreciate it!

What were some challenges you faced as a new agent?

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