How to: Become a Real Estate Agent
Starting a career in real estate is a relatively short process and offers a great opportunity for advancement. People thriving in this field are very hard working and know how to deal with the public. Agents help regular people buy and sell houses and only receive payment upon the closing of these deals. Average agents make about $54,000 yearly as of 2008, depending of course on the area and market.
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Instructions
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Graduate from high school, as the main prerequisites before attempting to obtain your real estate license are a high school diploma (or equivalent) and 18 years of age. In some cases, depending on the state, you must be at least 21 years old.
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Take a real estate program and related classes at a local college. English, finance, business administration, statistics and economics are all helpful classes that will contribute to your real estate knowledge and education. Research the school to ensure they have the proper credentials and will give you the best education for your money. Upon completing the course, you will receive a certificate. You may take additional courses to further your learning and obtain a bachelor's degree.
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Pass a written examination and have acquired between 30 and 90 hours of classroom instruction to receive the license. You must work in the same state in which you receive your license. Licenses are renewed every 1 to 2 years without having to take the exam over again.
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Be personable and professional. Real estate agents work with the public on a regular basis so they need to be friendly, mature and trustworthy. You must dress to impress and look presentable on all occasions. Don't be afraid of odd hours and long nights, and always be ready to show a house or place for sale. Knowledge of the neighborhoods in your town is helpful.
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References
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