Single Mother Needs Help on Becoming a Realtor in Florida

[Rakin]

Who's going to pay her rent, food, car and child expenses for the next 2-3 years while she get's her business started ?

[399083453]

Originally Posted by HomesForAllVA

It's not as cheap as it may look. That amount above is JUST to get licensed but she wouldn't be able to do anything with just a license. Now she needs to join her local MLS, pay for her sentrilock (or other system) access, join a brokerage (monthly fees and commission splits), and pay for business cards/signage. And that doesn't even cover marketing expenses... I tell new agents that it can cost up to $10,000 your first year in Real Estate.

One doesn't buy a Mercedes as their first car..... You simply start small. Keep expenses limited until you get on your feet.

- Sure, MLS access is a must.
- Sentrilock or other system access isnt needed. If the listing agent/broker uses them, they will be there to open it anyway.
- Brokerage fees are negotiable. You can make a deal with the boss until you get on your feet.
- Business cards you can get for $5 from places like vistaprint
- Signs - Simply use the signs from the broker. You dont need your own sign yet.

Point is...... you can start small and work your way up. You dont need to buy all the bells and whistles the industry is trying to sell you.

[HomesForAllVA]

Originally Posted by 399083453

- Sentrilock or other system access isnt needed. If the listing agent/broker uses them, they will be there to open it anyway.
- Brokerage fees are negotiable. You can make a deal with the boss until you get on your feet.
- Signs - Simply use the signs from the broker. You dont need your own sign yet.

I realize things are different in different parts of the country but in my area (DC Metro) the listing agent is NOT at the property when the buyer's agent in showing the home - so yes - she will NEED lockbox access or she won't be showing any homes to any buyers.

Brokers are in the business to make money. Unless your friend finds a bleeding heart mom and pop shop that is willing to take her under their wing, an agent with no recent track record will not be able to negotiate their fees. I wouldn't want anyone to think that was easy.

Yes - she can use the broker signs but only if she wants all of her leads going to the broker. She needs her own signs so that her leads come to her. It's one of the fastest ways to build the business.

I still think having her get in touch with a team is her best bet.