Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents
Key Insights
Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents are a dynamic career within the sector, offering a unique blend of opportunities and challenges for professionals seeking meaningful work.
The median annual salary for this occupation is $58,960, which is below the typical salary for this field. Over the next decade, employment is projected to grow by 3.0%, reflecting modest demand and new opportunities . The automation risk for this occupation is 38.0%. This suggests a high degree of job security, as automation is less likely to impact this role in the near future. Work-life balance is rated as 5.6, which can be an important factor for job satisfaction and overall well-being.
Individuals with Enterprising, Social, or Conventional personality traits tend to thrive in this career. Key skills for success include Business skills, Interpersonal skills, Organizational skills, Problem-solving skills, Self-motivated. Developing and refining these abilities can set you apart from other candidates and help you excel in your role. Notable strengths for this occupation are High Demand, Flexible Work, Continuous Learning. Leveraging these strengths can lead to greater job satisfaction and career advancement. Some common challenges professionals may encounter include Burnout Risk, Rapid Technological Change. Being aware of these potential obstacles can help you prepare and develop strategies to overcome them.
The highest employment levels for this occupation are found in California, offering strong job prospects in that region. The leading industry for this role is Real estate and rental and leasing, which may provide additional opportunities for specialization and growth.
Whether you are just starting your career journey or looking to make a change, Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents offers a compelling mix of salary potential, job outlook, and personal fit. By understanding the key factors that influence success in this field, you can make informed decisions and position yourself for long-term achievement.
What They Do
Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents assist clients in buying, selling, and renting properties. They guide transactions, market properties, and negotiate contracts. Their work is critical in housing, commercial real estate, and property investment.
This career is well suited for individuals who enjoy sales, customer service, and the real estate industry.
What Do Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents Do?
These professionals help clients navigate the property market and complete transactions successfully.
Common responsibilities include:
- Listing properties and marketing them to potential buyers or renters
- Conducting property showings and open houses
- Advising clients on market conditions, pricing, and property values
- Negotiating purchase, sale, or lease agreements
- Preparing contracts and coordinating with legal and financial professionals
- Maintaining client relationships and managing client expectations
- Staying informed about local real estate trends and regulations
Key Areas of Real Estate Practice
Brokers and agents may focus on specific property types or services:
- Residential Real Estate: Buying and selling homes, condos, or apartments
- Commercial Real Estate: Facilitating sales or leases of office, retail, or industrial properties
- Property Leasing and Rentals: Managing tenant relations and rental agreements
- Market Analysis and Pricing: Evaluating property values and trends
- Client Relationship Management: Building trust and long-term client connections
Skills and Abilities Needed
Real estate professionals combine sales, negotiation, and analytical skills.
Core Professional Skills
- Property marketing and sales strategies - Market research and property valuation - Negotiation and contract management - Customer service and client relationship management - Knowledge of real estate laws, regulations, and financing - Communication and presentation skillsPersonal Qualities That Matter
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills - Persuasiveness and confidence in negotiation - Attention to detail and organizational skills - Self-motivation and goal orientation - Ethical judgment and professionalism - Adaptability and problem-solving abilityEducation and Career Pathway
This role typically requires formal education and licensure:
- High School Diploma or GED (minimum): Basic math, communication, and business skills
- Postsecondary Education (optional but beneficial): Courses in business, finance, or real estate
- Licensing: Required by state to practice as a broker or agent
- On-the-Job Experience: Gaining experience in sales, marketing, and property transactions
- Continuing Education: Maintaining licensure and staying current on real estate laws and market trends
Where Do Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents Work?
They are employed in industries that facilitate property transactions:
- Real Estate Agencies
- Brokerage Firms
- Property Management Companies
- Independent or Self-Employed Practice
- Commercial and Residential Development Companies
Work environments include offices, client meetings, property sites, and remote work locations.
Is This Career Difficult?
This career requires strong sales skills, persistence, and knowledge of real estate markets. Brokers and agents must manage client expectations, negotiate deals, and navigate complex transactions.
Who Should Consider This Career?
This career may be a strong fit if you:
- Enjoy sales, negotiation, and customer service
- Are self-motivated and goal-oriented
- Can analyze market trends and property values
- Have strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Want a career in real estate and property management
How to Prepare Early
- Take courses in business, finance, or real estate
- Gain experience in sales, marketing, or customer service
- Develop negotiation, communication, and organizational skills
- Learn about property markets, contracts, and real estate laws
- Network with professionals in the real estate industry
Real estate brokers and sales agents help clients buy, sell, and rent properties, providing guidance, negotiation, and expertise to facilitate successful transactions.
Career Video
Key facts
Top Skills
StartRight Career Intelligence Metrics
Job Growth Outlook
+3.0%Automation Risk Assessment
Medium RiskWork-Life Balance Score
5.6/10Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)
Powered by O*NET Career Profiling
Personality Match: The higher the score (out of 10), the better this career matches that personality type. People with similar interests and work styles tend to be most satisfied in careers that match their personality profile.
Official assessment tool by the U.S. Department of Labor
Strengths
- High Demand
- Flexible Work
- Continuous Learning
Challenges
- Burnout Risk
- Rapid Technological Change
Median Salary Comparison
Employment projection (2024–2034)
Geographic Employment & Wage Analysis
BLS OEWS Data Updated 2024-05States with Highest Employment
- California 70,730
- Texas 61,550
- Florida 42,540
- Virginia 18,120
- Georgia 17,450
- New York 17,260
- North Carolina 17,150
- Washington 14,590
- Arizona 14,340
- Illinois 14,120
Regional Wage Variations
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California +10%$65,056
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Texas -7%$54,837
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Florida -17%$48,728
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Virginia -11%$52,556
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New York +54%$90,583
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North Carolina -9%$53,490
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Washington +10%$64,638
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Arizona -3%$57,114
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Illinois -19%$47,749
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Pennsylvania -1%$58,590