Looking to become a successful real estate agent? San Diego Realtor Mel Roark shares five important steps you need to know and take when starting out in real estate.

Today, I'd like to share with you five things that you probably want to know and do when becoming a real estate agent.

So number one, make sure you have a good, strong support system. That includes family, friends, and colleagues. You're going to really need these people in your first year or two. Yes, I said two. And don't be shy to ask for help. You will need help.

Number two, don't go solo. You're going to have to contract with a brokerage regardless. And when you do, they're going to take a portion of your commissions and leave you with all of the business expenses. You don't know everything you need to know regarding a transaction. And even if you're with one of the big companies, it doesn't mean that somebody's going to be able to help you when you need help.

Number three, becoming a real estate agent is very expensive. You're going to want to become a part of an association in order to become a realtor. And in order to access the MLS and the Century Lock, which you'll need to show homes, there's also marketing, lead sourcing, office fees, and administrative fees. This can cost in excess and up to $10,000, especially if you're a solo agent. Four, join a team. Find a team that will give you the proper training, tools, and resources for you to be successful in this business. Joining a team means sharing your commissions, but in return, you gain credibility, office space to do your work in, CRM for your database, marketing access, printing, and it will absolutely save you thousands of dollars versus going solo. The only thing you'll have to pay for your own association fees and incidentals here and there.

And number five, don't quit your regular job. You're going to need access to money. What that means is, in addition to the expenses that comes along with being a real estate agent, if you're the primary income earner in your household, you're also going to need to take care of all of your regular monthly responsibilities until you've completed your first transaction. A first transaction can take anywhere from weeks to months to complete, and this is just something that you need to be prepared for. In closing, this can be a very lucrative and rewarding career if you're aware of the initial investment and you're willing to do the continuous work to keep your career going.

If you have any questions or comments, I want you to feel free to reach out to me at 619-313-1285. And again, my name is Mel Roark.

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