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What does a Real Estate Agent do?

A real estate agent is responsible for arranging the buying, selling and renting of property, including homes, commercial property and land. They work closely with buyers, sellers and other agents to help people find the property they want and need. They often work in a brokerage firm, but they essentially run their own small businesses, managing their expenses, running their offices, communicating with clients and marketing their properties.

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Working as a Real Estate Agent

A real estate agent has many duties both before and after making sales. They are responsible for:

  • Researching their local area to see what is available and to answer their buyers' questions about the community
  • Helping their buyers and sellers understand the market and determine a reasonable price for their property
  • Traveling to attend meetings, have showings and arrange open houses
  • Developing marketing plans for their properties, which involves managing all social media sites associated with their work
  • Completing all necessary paperwork
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How much does a Real Estate Agent make in the United States?

Average base salary

$95,016
Average $95,016
Low $47,645
High $189,487
Non-cash benefit
401(k)
View more benefits

The average salary for a real estate agent is $95,016 per year in the United States. 97.2k salaries reported, updated at September 19, 2023

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Where can a Real Estate Agent earn more?

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How much do similar professions get paid in United States?

Sales Representative

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Average $73,488 per year

Administrative Assistant

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Average $18.69 per hour

Outside Sales Representative

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Average $80,704 per year

Customer Service Representative

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Average $17.46 per hour

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Common questions about for a Real Estate Agent

What does the real estate agent exam cover?

The courses real estate agents take during their pre-licensing exam cover the different subjects on the test. These subjects often include customer service skills, closing deals and negotiating with buyers and sellers. The required percentage they need to receive on the exam varies by state.

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Can real estate agents work from home?

Real estate agents can usually work from home, however, there are parts of their job such as showing homes to prospective buyers and hosting open houses that must be done in-person.

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Is becoming a real estate agent worth it?

Becoming a real estate agent is a worthwhile career choice for many people. Many real estate agents enjoy having flexible hours and the ability to earn uncapped income.

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Is it hard to get a real estate license?

How do real estate agents get paid?

How long do you have to go to school to become a real estate agent?

Do you need good credit to be a real estate agent?

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