Real Estate Sales Agents
Real estate sales agents help people buy, sell, and rent homes and properties by showing them around, handling paperwork, and negotiating deals. They use digital listing services and social media to advertise properties, prepare contracts and legal documents, and advise clients on market prices and mortgage options. This career involves lots of client interaction, flexible schedules, and the opportunity to work independently while collaborating with brokers, lenders, and other professionals. Most agents need a high school diploma plus specialized real estate licensing courses and training.
Did you know?
Real estate agents must obtain state-specific licenses through pre-licensing education, state exams, and ongoing continuing education requirements.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$54,600 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top skill
Active Listening
Things to consider
Commission-Based Income Variability
Income is typically commission-based, resulting in highly variable earnings that depend on market conditions and individual sales performance.
Competitive Market Environment
The American real estate market is highly competitive, requiring strong networking, marketing skills, and effective client relationship management.
Key responsibilities
Locate and appraise undeveloped areas for building sites, based on evaluations of area market conditions.
Accompany buyers during visits to and inspections of property, advising them on the suitability and value of the homes they are visiting.
Contact property owners and advertise services to solicit property sales listings.
Coordinate appointments to show homes to prospective buyers.
Interview clients to determine what kinds of properties they are seeking.