Proactive Networking: Speak Up About Your Ambitions
One of the initial steps to take before obtaining your real estate license involves a simple action: communicate. Many prospective agents hesitate to share their aspirations until they receive their license or even until they close a few deals. However, this approach may not be the most beneficial. Instead, tell people about your dreams, your ongoing efforts, and your passion for real estate right from the start.
Don’t Keep Your Real Estate Journey a Secret
Sharing your journey towards becoming a licensed real estate agent allows others to grow accustomed to the idea. Show them your growing knowledge and share your experience of obtaining your license. While you may assume that your established connections will automatically become your clients, this isn’t always the case. Many people prefer working with experienced agents, including friends and family. Therefore, showcasing your dedication and learning journey can help secure their trust.
Tools to Build Your Career Before Licensing
You can prepare for a successful real estate career even before you have your license. Here’s how:
- Newsletter Sign-Up: Subscribe to newsletters from real estate agents within and outside your area. Learn from their practices and stay updated with industry trends.
- Market Research: Get accustomed to browsing real estate websites. Understand their search functions and learn how to evaluate houses online. This practice will help you learn about the market from the public’s perspective.
- Networking with Mortgage Lenders and Banks: Understanding the financial aspect of the real estate market is crucial. Initiate conversations with mortgage lenders and banks to learn more about this side of the industry.
- Meet Title Company Representatives: Title company representatives can provide valuable guidance. Start building relationships with them.
- Build a Contact List: Start compiling a list of contractors, plumbers, electricians, landscapers, stagers, real estate photographers, and sign installers. These contacts will be invaluable once you start your career.
- Visit Open Houses: Attend open houses and engage with real estate agents. You can learn a lot from these interactions, and you might even find a mentor.
Defining Your Real Estate Career Goals
Before you acquire your real estate license, it’s crucial to define your goals. Understand why you’re entering this field and what you hope to achieve. Having a well-thought-out plan will enable you to hit the ground running and set you apart from others.
Here’s a podcast where I talk about some of these things: