Career Options
If you want to pursue a career in real estate sales, the two main options are either real estate broker or real estate sales agent. These two options are closely related, but there are certain responsibilities and requirements needed to become one. Be aware that you can be both a broker and an agent at the same time if you successfully test for both licences.
Real Estate BrokerSalary Range for Brokers: $23,000 to $59,000 to $100,000 per year
What they do: Real estate brokers require more education than real estate agents. Usually, brokers are the owners of a real estate firm and oversee real estate agents that work for them. One of the main duties that brokers are required to do is to oversee legal affairs between associates. If there is a legal or insurance issue, brokers are usually the first person agents and clients turn to. In addition to legal responsibilities, they can also help their own clients sell, buy, or lease a property. However, brokers usually handle commercial properties and advertising instead of dealing with homes. |
Real Estate AgentsSalary Range for Brokers: $18,000 to $36,000 to $93,000 per year
What they do: These are the people that directly make contact with clients and help them sell, buy, or lease a property. They often put the buyer or seller's interests as a priority in order to serve them fully. Real estate agents often have a busy schedule trying to listen to each and every buyer's requests so that he or she can have the perfect house or apartment. They also need to be knowledgeable about the local housing markets, tax laws, zoning laws, many other things. In order to keep up to date with everything, agents may hire assistants in order to keep files and information in order. |