Fresh Profile: Real Estate Agent

Published on 2008-03-07

Real estate is an exciting industry, and indeed is an economy unto itself. There are many directions one could take when considering jobs in real estate, but perhaps the most recognizable is that of the real estate agent.

Real estate agents assist in the buying and selling of houses. This requires extensive knowledge of the housing market, the general state of micro and macro economies, and legal and financial issues attached to buying and selling property. Realty jobs also require excellent interpersonal skills and a flexible schedule. It is the responsibility of the real estate agent to connect and assist buyers and sellers, and to manage the necessary legal matters involved.

One benefit of a real estate career is that agents usually have a certain degree of flexibility when designing their work hours. Many agents work part-time to accommodate other work or family commitments. The bulk of a real estate agent's work will be done on evenings and weekends, which is when buyers and sellers are more readily available.

Real estate agent jobs tend to offer an annual salary between $24,000 and $60,000, but there is potential to earn more depending on the location and market an agent lives in, as well as their own commitment and the number of clients they work with.

Many people don't realize that there is a distinction between a real estate agent and a realtor. The title of realtor only applies to real estate professionals belonging to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). This membership ensures that realtors have completed and continue to enroll in official education courses and abide by a strict code of ethics. Realtor jobs may come with better salaries and benefits compared to agents. While it is advisable that any professional affiliated with the real estate industry become a member of the NAR, non-member real estate agents will share similar responsibilities and opportunities.