Do You Have What it Takes to Become a Realtor?
The Honest Truth About Being a Real Estate Agent
All right, let’s get a little real for a moment. People often ask me what it takes to become a real estate agent. And I’ll tell you straight: becoming one is the easy part. Yes, real estate school can be challenging, but getting the license is just the first step.
Where it really gets hard? That’s in being a real estate agent day after day.
A lot of people have this dreamy idea of the job:
“You can make your own schedule!”
“You just get to show beautiful houses all day!”
Sounds lovely, right? But here’s the truth:
Early Mornings, Late Nights
My workday usually starts around 6:00 a.m. and doesn’t wrap up until 8:00 p.m.—and that’s on a normal day. It’s an all day, every day kind of commitment.
Sure, I try to keep Sundays off. But you know what? Real estate doesn’t always respect weekends. Emergencies happen, deals need saving, clients need answers.
You’re the One in the Hot Seat
Another tough truth? If something goes wrong, the blame often lands squarely on your shoulders. You have to be the problem-solver, the negotiator, the therapist. It’s a lot—and yes, it can be draining.
Dealing With... Everyone
Let’s be honest: people can be a little crazy sometimes. Emotions run high during moves, and agents are on the front lines of that stress.
The Highs Make It Worth It
But here’s the thing that keeps me coming back every day:
When you
hand the keys to that first-time homebuyer? There’s no better feeling in the world.
When you help a widow who’s terrified about selling the family home so she can move closer to her kids—and you’re the one who says, “I know exactly what to do. Let me help you.”—there’s nothing more rewarding.
A Commission-Based Life
This job means waking up “unemployed” every single day, knowing you don’t get paid unless you close deals. It’s stressful. It’s risky. But it’s also incredibly fulfilling.
Honestly? I can’t imagine doing anything else for the rest of my life.
It’s hard work. But it’s amazing work.
That’s the scoop.
Edna Wilson—Your Hometown Realtor, as Hometown as Apple Pie.
