“Would I be a good real estate agent?” You may have asked yourself this question while watching “Property Brothers” or “Million Dollar Beach House.” Perhaps you are motivated by the excitement or income potential that comes with high-end transactions. Of course, real estate agents on TV make the profession seem glamorous. Still, it's worth noting that the average real estate agent makes a good salary in Arizona ($115,274, according to a Colibri Real Estate School study.)
Related article: How Much Do Real Estate Agents Make in Arizona?
While real estate is a career filled with opportunities, it also demands a unique blend of skills, traits, and dedication. Before diving into this dynamic industry, it's crucial to conduct a thorough self-assessment to determine if this career choice aligns with your strengths, interests, and career goals.
Here are things to consider before choosing real estate as a career in Arizona. We’ll discuss essential skills, educational and licensing requirements, and other considerations regarding this popular career.
Real estate agents must earn a state-specific license to help buyers, sellers, and renters with transactions. Part of that licensing process includes pre-licensing coursework. You’ll learn a lot in real estate school – including the national and state laws and regulations related to real estate transactions. But you’ll also learn how to be a member of this illustrious profession, including how to use real estate technology and negotiate on behalf of your clients.
That said, some innate traits are helpful as a real estate agent. As you ask yourself, “Would I be a good real estate agent?” complete a self-assessment to see if you have the following qualities.
Related article: Is a Career in Real Estate Right for You?
Clear and effective communication is the cornerstone of real estate success. Agents must convey information accurately and persuasively to clients, colleagues, and other stakeholders.
Effective communication helps build rapport, foster trust, and ensure all parties are on the same page during transactions. Misunderstandings can lead to missed opportunities and unsatisfied clients.
Real estate is a highly competitive field that requires a strong sense of motivation and self-discipline.
Like any other sales professional, you’ll face rejection as a real estate agent. And since real estate agents work solely on commission, some struggle to stay motivated during slow seasons. Those with a high level of determination are able to stay strong and power through the challenging aspects of their careers.
Agents often work independently, setting their own schedules and managing their workloads. They must always be aware of their sales funnel and continually work to find leads. Staying focused and driven can be difficult for some.
Successful agents are proactive, consistently seeking new leads, following up with clients, and continuously improving their skills.
The ability to stay focused and driven is an essential skill for real estate agents.
The real estate market is ever-changing, and agents must be adaptable and skilled at problem-solving and handling unexpected challenges. Whether dealing with market fluctuations, client demands, or unforeseen obstacles during transactions, the ability to think on your feet and find effective solutions is invaluable. Adaptability ensures agents can navigate challenges and turn potential issues into opportunities.
Integrity and ethical behavior are non-negotiable traits for real estate agents. Clients trust agents to help them make significant financial decisions. Also, having a reputation for integrity will make it easier to build professional relationships in a high-stakes industry. The ability to build trust with clients and industry professionals is crucial in the industry.
Exceptional customer service is the heart of real estate success. Agents must prioritize their clients' needs, ensuring a smooth and satisfying experience throughout the buying or selling process.
Real estate agents must be responsive, attentive, and committed to ensuring client satisfaction. Satisfied clients are more likely to refer others and return for future transactions, making customer service a vital trait.
Being a good communicator and having the heart of a servant are traits that will help you succeed as a real estate agent. However, you need to acquire a lot of knowledge and learn a lot of skills as well.
Here are a few essential skills you’ll need to develop to succeed as a real estate salesperson in Arizona.
Real estate agents must stay updated on local market trends. This in-depth market knowledge is essential for real estate agents. Understanding local market trends, property values, and neighborhood dynamics enables agents to provide accurate advice and make informed decisions. Continuous research and staying updated with market changes help agents remain competitive and provide the best service to their clients.
Real estate agents make money by successfully closing deals. Negotiation is a fundamental skill in real estate. Agents must negotiate terms, prices, and conditions on behalf of their clients. Effective negotiation ensures favorable outcomes and smooth transactions. In addition, real estate agents must negotiate their rates with their clients.
Become a better negotiator - and a better real estate agent -- by getting certified through the Real Estate Negotiation Institute (RENI). RENI offers two certifications: the Certified Negotiation Expert and Certified Buyer Agent Expert. RENI's courses will teach you practical, disciplined approaches tailored to ensure you thrive as an Arizona real estate agent.
Marketing and sales expertise are crucial for promoting properties effectively and attracting potential buyers. Agents must develop compelling listings, utilize digital marketing strategies, and leverage social media platforms to reach a broader audience. Effective marketing increases visibility and interest in properties, leading to quicker sales and higher client satisfaction.
Real estate agents must be skilled in managing multiple tasks efficiently. Strong time management and organizational skills are essential to handle these responsibilities efficiently. Prioritizing tasks, maintaining a structured schedule, and staying organized help agents meet deadlines and provide timely service to clients.
While you may not currently be an organizational wiz, you’ll learn tools and techniques to improve your time management and organization during real estate school and brokerage training.
You will become skilled at utilizing real estate software and tools as a real estate agent. Digital tools enhance efficiency and productivity. Technology aids in managing client information, marketing properties, and streamlining transactions, making it an indispensable skill for modern agents.
As you consider whether you are right for a real estate career, knowing what you are in for regarding the Arizona licensing process might be helpful. Here’s a brief overview.
Pursuing a career in real estate begins with a 90-hour salesperson pre-licensing course from a state-approved real estate school. In addition, Arizona requires a 6-hour course called Introduction To Contract Writing. These courses provide foundational knowledge and prepare candidates for the licensing exam.
Real estate licensing requirements vary by state. Arizona requires prospective real estate agents to be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen or legal alien. They must also complete an application and pass a background check.
Continuing education is vital for real estate agents to stay updated with industry changes, enhance their skills, and stay licensed. The Arizona Department of Real Estate requires licensed agents to complete 24 hours of continuing education courses every two years.
Related article: How to Get Your Real Estate License in Arizona
What else do you need to know before enrolling in your Arizona real estate pre-licensing courses? Here are some essential considerations for becoming a member of this lucrative industry.
Real estate agents typically earn income through commissions, which are a percentage of the property sale price. Understanding commission structures and how they impact earnings is crucial. Agents must also budget for expenses such as marketing, transportation, and licensing fees to ensure financial stability.
One of the appeals of a real estate career is the flexibility it offers. Agents can often set their own schedules and work from various locations. However, it’s important to note that real estate agents are often called to work evenings and weekends – when others are free from work obligations.
Managing a flexible schedule requires discipline to ensure productivity and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Balancing client demands with personal time is key to long-term satisfaction in this career.
Real estate offers diverse career paths and advancement opportunities. Agents can specialize in residential or commercial properties, property management, real estate development, or (eventually) own their own brokerage. Exploring these options and identifying areas of interest can lead to career growth and fulfillment.
A good real estate agent possesses a combination of key traits and skills, including strong communication, motivation, adaptability, integrity, and customer service orientation. Success in real estate also requires continuous learning and a commitment to providing exceptional service to clients.
Do you have the right real estate agent personality traits? Enroll in this real estate agent starter kit. You’ll receive access to a quiz assessing your skills to see if they are compatible with others who enjoy success in the industry.
Self-assessment is crucial to determining if real estate is the right career for you. Consider your strengths, interests, and willingness to face the industry's challenges. Speaking with experienced agents, shadowing professionals, and gaining firsthand experience can also help you make an informed decision.
There are challenges in a real estate career. New real estate agents often face challenges such as building a client base, managing finances, and navigating market fluctuations. Staying motivated, continuously improving skills, and seeking mentorship can help overcome these obstacles and pave the way for a successful career.
There’s only one way to know whether you would be a good real estate agent – and that’s to work in the industry. It only takes a few months to complete all the licensing requirements in Arizona, and the process is very affordable.
Get started today by enrolling in pre-licensing courses with the Arizona School of Real Estate and Business (ASREB). ASREB has the highest real estate exam pass rates in Arizona. We have provided quality education to real estate professionals since the late 1960s, and we can’t wait to help you earn your license. Questions? Contact an ASREB enrollment advisor to find out more.
Are you already licensed and want to improve your negotiation skills? Become a top agent in Arizona by enrolling in the Real Estate Negotiation Institute.
