Transitioning from Nursing to Real Estate

Are you an Arizona nurse ready for a career change? You aren’t alone. Pay, stress, and poor work/life balance are often cited as the main reasons that RNs and LPNs are leaving the healthcare industry. While some nurses switch to other healthcare-related careers, others are eager to try something new, such as switching from nursing to real estate.

We want to help you with your new career goals. Here’s everything you need to know if you are leaving nursing for real estate in Arizona.

Key Takeaways

• Nurses possess valuable skills such as communication, empathy, problem-solving, and time management that directly apply to a successful real estate career. These transferable abilities make the career switch more seamless than many realize.
• Real estate can be a lucrative profession, with Arizona agents earning an average of $120,538 annually. Additionally, the profession offers a better work/life balance, allowing agents to set their schedules and reduce the stress associated with hospital shifts.
• Transitioning from nursing to real estate involves clear steps, including completing a 90-hour pre-licensing course, passing the state exam, and submitting the required documents. With the right support, the process can be completed in two to three months.
• Starting as a part-time agent, leveraging your healthcare network for referrals, and staying updated on real estate market trends through education are essential strategies for overcoming challenges during the career switch and thriving in your first year.

Why Nurses Consider Switching to Real Estate

Many nurses in Arizona are exploring new career paths due to challenges within the healthcare industry. Real estate offers an appealing alternative for those looking to leverage their skills in a new way while enjoying greater flexibility and financial potential. Let’s explore the key reasons nurses are drawn to real estate:

Nurses possess skills that are transferable to real estate

Nurses possess a unique list of skills that translate seamlessly into a successful real estate career.

• Communication and empathy: Nurses excel in understanding and addressing patient needs, a critical skill when guiding homebuyers or sellers through emotionally charged decisions.
• Attention to detail: Just as accuracy is essential when caring for a patient, attention to detail helps ensure contracts, property inspections, and negotiations are handled flawlessly.
• Time management: Managing multiple patients in a fast-paced environment prepares nurses for juggling clients, property showings, and deadlines.
• Problem-solving: Nurses are skilled at thinking on their feet and resolving issues quickly—a trait invaluable when navigating the complexities of real estate transactions.

In short, entering the real estate industry from healthcare may not be as challenging as you think. You already have the right skills – all you need is knowledge about Arizona real estate laws and regulations. And you’ll learn this information in real estate school.

Real estate can be a lucrative profession.

Real estate agents in Arizona make an average income of $120,538, according to Indeed in January 2025. However, it’s worth noting that real estate agents don’t earn a regular salary. Instead, they work on commission, which is based on the property's sale price. A real estate agent’s salary can vary greatly depending on niche, location, experience, and skill.

Better work/life balance

One of the main reasons nurses consider switching to real estate is the opportunity for a more flexible schedule and improved work/life balance. Unlike hospital shifts, real estate professionals can plan their schedules to accommodate personal priorities. According to stats from the National Association of REALTORS®, member agents work an average of 35 hours per week.

Reduced stress

We don't mean to imply that your life as a real estate agent will be stress-free. While real estate has its challenges, it often lacks the high-stakes pressure of life-and-death situations that many nurses face daily.

Steps to Transition from Nursing to Real Estate

If you’re transitioning from nursing or another career to real estate, follow these steps to getting your license in Arizona

Step 1: Enroll in Arizona real estate classes

Complete a 90-hour pre-licensing course and a 6-hour Introduction to Contract Writing course from a state-approved school, such as the Arizona School of Real Estate and Business (ASREB). ASREB courses are flexible, offered online, live-streamed, or in-person.

Step 2: Complete the fingerprinting process

Get fingerprinted for your background check. (ASREB can help you with this process!) Submit your completed fingerprint card, application, and a $67 fee to the Arizona Department of Public Safety.

Step 3: Take the Arizona Real Estate Sales Agent Exam

Schedule your exam through PearsonVue after completing the pre-licensing course. Pay the $75 exam fee and bring two forms of I.D. along with your Salesperson Education Certificate on test day. You must achieve a score of 75% or higher on the exam.

Step 4: Submit Your Arizona Salesperson Application and supporting documents

After passing the exam, submit your application and supporting documents through the Arizona Department of Real Estate's online message center. Required documents include your education certificates, exam score report, fingerprint clearance card, and proof of legal presence. Applications must be submitted within one year of passing the exam.

You’ll be surprised by how long it takes to become a real estate agent in AZ. ASREB instructors and staff will help you get through the process in two to three months.

Overcoming Challenges During the Career Switch

Your first year of nursing probably wasn’t easy. It's worth noting that your first year in real estate may also be challenging. Here are a few tips to help you through your career switch and first year.

Start as a part-time agent to test the waters.

Many successful real estate agents start by working part-time. Since your income as a real estate agent will be irregular, it might be a good idea to work a few shifts at the hospital per week while transitioning to your new career.

Leverage your healthcare network for leads and referrals.

Let others know that you’re starting your own real estate business. Networking is critical in real estate, so ask for leads and referrals from all your friends in healthcare.

Continuously educate yourself about the real estate market.

As a nurse, you must continuously learn and practice your skills to give your patients the best care. Real estate also requires practice and education. Learn as much as you can by enrolling in professional development and continuing education courses, attending seminars and workshops, and working with a mentor.

Are you ready to quit nursing for real estate? Enroll in your pre-licensing courses for Arizona with ASREB.