Steps After Getting a Real Estate License

Congratulations on obtaining your real estate license! You’ve put in the hard work and dedication to reach this milestone, and now you’re ready to embark on an exciting and rewarding career in real estate.

However, getting your license is just the beginning, with the true journey starting now that you are actually stepping into the professional world.

In this Steps After Getting Real Estate License guide, we will break down everything you need to know to launch your real estate career, from selecting a supportive brokerage and finding the right mentor to crafting a marketing strategy and creating a professional network.

Steps After Getting Your Real Estate License

You will need to complete seven steps in order to successfully start your new career as a real estate agent.

We have broken these down in more detail below.

Step 1: Find a Sponsoring Broker/Brokerage

In most states, you will likely have already completed this step prior to being licensed. However, if you haven’t done so already, you should make this your top priority.

You’ll want to look for a brokerage that offers comprehensive training programs and ongoing professional development opportunities; these programs will help you build your skills and confidence as you start out.

The culture of the brokerage is also an important consideration. A supportive and collaborative environment can make a significant difference in your overall success.

This is why you’ll want to choose a brokerage that aligns with your values and work style, as the right environment will foster growth, encourage collaboration, and provide the support you need to thrive in your real estate career.

It’s also important to understand the financial aspects of your relationship with the brokerage; some brokerages offer a higher level of support and resources in exchange for a larger share of your commission, while others might have lower fees but provide less support.

You will need to determine what level of support and resources you require and how much of your commission you are willing to share in return for these benefits.

For more information on this step, you can have a look at our How to Choose the Right Real Estate Broker article.

Step 2: Find a Mentor

A common mistake newly licensed agents make is confusing their supervising broker with a mentor. While your supervising broker may provide guidance in certain situations, finding a mentor is a personal decision that should align with your values and career aspirations.

Regardless of your brokerage, you should seek out a mentor who can offer personalized guidance, share industry insights, and help you navigate the complexities of real estate transactions. This relationship can provide you with practical advice, emotional support, and help you avoid common pitfalls.

When choosing a mentor, you should consider the following:

• Experience and Success: Look for someone with extensive industry experience and a proven track record
• Alignment with Values: Select a mentor whose values and approach to real estate align with your own
• Willingness to Invest Time: Choose someone who is genuinely interested in helping you grow and succeed

You should also join and attend industry events, network within your local real estate community, and become a member of professional associations. This will help you meet and connect with established agents who might be willing to mentor you as you start your career.

Step 3: Join an MLS

One of the most important steps you can take as a new real estate agent is to join an MLS (Multiple Listing Service).

An MLS is a comprehensive database that offers detailed information about properties for sale in a specific geographic region, including listing prices, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, square footage, and property history.

Access to an MLS will give you an edge in understanding the market, allowing you to see the latest listings and sales data; this information is invaluable when advising clients and setting competitive prices for listings.

Moreover, being a member of an MLS increases the visibility of your listings to other agents, expanding your potential buyer pool.

To join a Multiple Listing Service, you will typically need to pay around $20 to $50 per month for access; some MLSs also require you to be a member of a local real estate board or association.

While this might seem like an extra expense, think of it as a strategic investment — it helps you stay competitive and serve your clients.

Step 4: Build Your Professional Network

After joining an MLS, you should start thinking about building your professional network; a great way to start is by focusing on your immediate community.

You should get to know local business owners, attend neighborhood events, and join community organizations; these activities can lay the groundwork for building your initial clientele.

Keep in mind that volunteering for community projects is another excellent way to build your reputation and network when you are just starting out, and it costs nothing.

As you gain experience and become more well-known, your network will naturally expand, allowing you to connect with other real estate professionals like mortgage brokers, home inspectors, and attorneys to enhance your services and further grow your business.

Step 5: Develop a Marketing Strategy

With your MLS membership and professional network in place, the next step you will want to take is to develop a marketing strategy.

To do this, you will need to decide whether you want to build a personal brand or focus on marketing your listings and services.

If you choose to market yourself, you will need to create a professional website that highlights your expertise, showcases your services, and features client testimonials to build credibility.

If you go down this path, using social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn is a must, as your online presence and attention to detail will set you apart from the competition.

Alternatively, if you prefer to focus on your listings, you will have to invest in high-quality photography and virtual tours to make your properties stand out; remember to use a combination of digital advertising, email marketing, and online property platforms to effectively reach prospective clients.

Note: The latest trend for new agents is to combine both approaches, leveraging their personal brand to attract clients while using targeted marketing strategies to showcase their listings. This method maximizes reach and effectiveness, helping you establish a strong presence in the real estate market.

Step 6: Establish Strong Client Relationships

While a well-crafted marketing strategy will attract clients, it’s up to you to cultivate and maintain strong relationships to ensure their long-term loyalty and satisfaction.

You should always respond to calls, emails, and messages promptly; this consistent attentiveness demonstrates your respect for your clients’ time and concerns, which in turn builds trust and fosters a supportive relationship.

You should also listen attentively to your clients’ needs and preferences, and tailor your advice and solutions to align with their specific goals. Consistently keeping them informed about the transaction process and any market changes reinforces their confidence in your expertise and helps them feel secure throughout their real estate journey.

Moreover, you should continue to engage with clients after the transaction has concluded. You can do that by sending a thank-you note, periodically checking in to inquire about their satisfaction with their new home, and offering assistance for any future real estate needs.

Step 7: Continuously Improve and Adapt

With your client base established and a solid track record in place, you might be tempted to lay back and relax. Having said that, the real estate game is relentless — it demands constant hustle and perpetual growth.

To stay ahead in this competitive market, you must always strive to improve and adapt your practices.You should:

1. Pursue Further Education: You will need to regularly attend courses, workshops, and seminars to deepen your real estate knowledge and stay updated on legal and market changes.
2. Embrace Technology: You will need to utilize the latest tools and technologies, such as CRM systems and virtual tour software, to streamline your operations and enhance client services.
3. Gather Feedback: You will need to actively solicit feedback from clients and peers to identify strengths and areas for improvement, helping you refine your approach and services.
4. Monitor Market Trends: You will need to keep a vigilant eye on market trends and economic indicators to provide your clients with valuable insights and solidify your status as an industry expert.
5. Network Continuously: You will need to broaden your professional network both locally and online, opening doors to new ideas, partnerships, and referrals.

Becoming a Licensed Real Estate Broker

Once you have reached a stage in your real estate career where you’re ready for greater challenges and opportunities, you should consider advancing to become a licensed real estate broker.

This role expands your responsibilities beyond those of a standard agent, allowing you to manage other agents and run your own firm.

The requirements for transitioning to this role will depend on the specific state that you are applying in but typically include accumulating relevant work experience, undergoing additional educational training, and successfully passing a comprehensive licensing exam.

For more information on this topic, you can refer to our state-specific How to Become a Real Estate Broker guide.