Hi, I just met with the local ERA to discuss joining their office as soon as I take my state exam next month. I don't know if this is a mistake. Why did it feel like I was being sold a water softener system or a used car? Why would they want someone new?

I'm currently a government employee, great benefits, security and a pay check every two weeks that I can count on. I have waited for 22 years to get into real estate (now that my kids are grown) and I'm very scared to just walk away from my secure job.

Should I do this? Should I start part time? When would I know that it's time to go full time? Does the agency expect someone to just walk away from their current job? Will I ever see my family again if I go into real estate?

I'm a responsible person, but I want so much to work as hard as I do now, but for myself, have fun and achieve financial success. I want to do this because I'm an honest person, care about people, and would enjoy helping them with something that is so important....sorry for going on. Can you guess that I'm a little anxious? Thanks!!!!!!

Hi
Relax, take a deep breath and say, "Everything will be alright..."

Yes, it is scary getting into Real Estate. Too many unknown factors. However, it can be very exciting. Especially if you're the kind of person who enjoys a challenge and pitting your wits against the world.

I'm not a realtor. I'm a national builder who works with realtors throughout the U.S. I can tell you that even those who've been at it for awhile, are still anxious. Still not sure if they made the right choice.

The key to success is start networking with other professionals. Build a team. This is where you'll get most of your referrals. As builders we train our realtors to build an infrastructure. Exactly how to generate leads and how to bypass local contractors and work directly with developers.

You'll do great...if you can handle government red tape, you can handle Real Estate.

Good Luck!

I just lost my post - darn! I'll have to condense it. I was a divorcee & mother of 3 when I started in R.E. & worked at the USPS. My office offered zero training so I kept my full-time job & paid for my own training. I didn't quit my job until I had bought a house, a new car & had a certain amount of savings. BTW, when I got my license interest rates hit 18%. I wasn't ready to quit my job for that!

Although I've been with the same Broker all these years I have interviewed with others. I was surprised by the "reverse interviews" where those Brokers/managers were selling me their company & could care less about my goals or visions. Remember, they're not hiring an employee, they're taking on another independent contractor. A lot of new people bring a few quick deals in with them from family & friends, plus they're fresh & motivated.

It's difficult to work this profession properly on a part-time basis; meaning having another job. You just won't be available for clients. And as far as seeing your family, if you work smart in today's market with all of the wonderful tools available you shouldn't have to worry about working so much your family won't see you (unless you want it that way).

When I started we didn't have computers and didn't even have fax machines-LOL! I had to run into the office for one stinking print-out. And forget about cell phones or voice mail. My first car phone was so huge in it's own little suitcase that there was no way I was carrying that thing around (but boy was that bag phone cool-so we thought)! Now I work out of my home office as much as I possibly can since I have most everything here that I need & I like it this way.

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Southwest Chicago Suburbs Real Estate is an affordable area with close access to downtown Chicago. Money Magazine says that Orland Park real estate is one of the best places to live in the U.S. Next door you can find Tinley Park homes for sale and get Orland Park amenities at a more affordable price.

Thanks for the encouraging words. You said, "Especially if you're the kind of person who enjoys a challenge and pitting your wits against the world." That's me!! I will take that deep breath, calm down, and move forward. Thanks again!!! ZC, Tampa, FL

You were definately determined, and you deserve your success...good for you!!!

"Reverse Interviews." That's just what happened. Why is that? They do offer a four week, 4 hour a day training program and the office seems to have a good sales record. According to the trainer, they are #1 in our area, #3 in Florida and 30th in the nation. But I should meet with a couple of other offices before making up my mind.

Thanks to both of you for responding and being so nice. You've been very helpful, and I truly appreciate the encouraging words.

ZC, Tampa, FL

Just keep in mind they ALL say they're #1 in the area. I have yet to run into a realtor who doesn't make that claim. <lol> Wouldn't be good for their image to say they were last or the worst. <lol>

Look me up when you get your broker and ready to sell. We're always looking for a good realtor to work with. Florida is a hot area to be selling real estate in at the moment, espeically with the Affluent.

Good luck and much success!

Storm