What does a realtor do?

I'm curious about what being a realtor entails. What kind of work does a realtor typically do on a daily basis, and what skills are needed? Is this a good career to consider right after high school, or should I aim for college first?

A realtor, or real estate agent, helps people buy, sell, or rent properties. Here's a brief rundown of their daily tasks:

- They advise clients on the market conditions, prices, mortgages, and legal requirements.

- They show properties to prospective buyers or renters.

- They negotiate price or rental terms on behalf of the client.

- They promote properties through open houses, listings, and advertisements.

- They prepare contracts, deeds, and other relevant documentation.

As for the skills needed, strong communication, negotiation, and customer service skills are crucial. Knowledge about your local real estate market is also key so as to effectively advise clients on their decisions.

In terms of where to start, becoming a realtor doesn't require a college degree, but it does necessitate obtaining a real estate license. This process involves taking a pre-licensing course and passing an exam. However, having a college degree can be beneficial, especially in a related field like business or finance. College education can help you gain a deeper understanding of the industry making it easier to navigate complex aspects of real estate.

That said, numerous successful realtors have launched their careers straight out of high school. What's important is having a passion for the field, a commitment to learning, and excellent interpersonal skills. It can be a challenging career due to the variable income and intense competition, but it's very rewarding if you enjoy helping people navigate one of the most significant financial decisions of their lives.