If you are researching ways to start a career in real estate, look no further than the expert knowledge provided below by members of the Haute Residence Network of top real estate professionals. They share the insights that don't appear in the books!
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What should one do or not do when considering a career in real estate?
Alex Min, Lake Tahoe, NV: "Make sure you are ready to jump in head first. In today's market, this is not a hobby job. You have to commit to working long and odd hours. If you aren't an expert on your market and inventory, you won't be able to service your clients properly."
Anne Perry, Honolulu, HI: "Develop a strong and current data base; constant growth; strong market knowledge, and leave your ego at the door."
Brian Pearl of the Pearl Antonacci Group, Boca Raton, FL: "Join a team where you receive leads, work and close them, and you'll establish yourself organically by being in the field learning the business."
Debra Johnston, Atlanta, GA: "Be prepared to spend six months in business development and getting set up for business."
Elisa Linton, Humble/Kingwood (Houston metro area), TX: "I say this is hard work. You have to be disciplined, approachable, and determined to protect your clients' interests throughout each stage of the transaction. You are assisting them with a large financial decision."
Frank D. Isoldi, Westfield, NJ: "Be patient and honest. Your integrity is everything."
Heidi Bintz, Vail Valley, CO: "Be prepared for a full time job that can be seven days a week."
James Beasley, Las Vegas, NV: "Start building your data base (databank)."
Jeff Hyland, Bel-Air, CA: “Stay calm and work through it. You might not sell your first listing, but with time, due diligence and a bit of luck, the world could be your market.”
Kathleen Floryan, Jacksonville, FL: "Your 'why' has to be very clear. Your choice of realty companies and the future education, support, plus mentorship is critical to your success."
Kelly Ringer-Radetich, Redwood City, CA: "If this is your very first introduction into real estate, I would recommend assisting an agent. If I had it to do all over again from the start, that is what I would do. Giving up something to gain the knowledge and experience can be priceless."
Kim Martin-Fisher, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL: "You must be vigilant, patient, and genuine."
Kristine Farra, Chicago, IL: "Work hard. Build relationships, not leads. Take marketing and branding seriously."
Maggie Gold Seelig, Boston, MA: "Find the nicest and smarter person from whom to learn the business, as real estate is an apprenticeship profession."
Mark Salmon, South Tahoe, CA: "Do not enter this business thinking it’s easy money -- it takes a lot of tremendous amount of time, devotion and capital to become established in order to have a lasting career."
Toni Itkin, Sandy Springs, GA: "Join a brokerage that provides the best training and technology, not the one that gives the highest commission split! Know that this is a full time business, not a part time job or a hobby. Then, network, network, network!!"
For more, visit www.hauteresidence.com.
