OVERVIEW
What is a Real Estate Broker?
Real estate brokers play an integral role in property transactions, serving as trusted advisors in guiding clients through the complexity of making real estate decisions.
A real estate broker is a licensed professional who acts as an intermediary between buyers and sellers, assisting them in the process of buying, selling, and leasing commercial, industrial, and residential properties. Real estate brokers should have extensive knowledge of the local real estate market, legal regulations, and industry practices in order to provide support to their clients.
The main responsibility of a real estate broker is to represent their clients through the intricacies of a real estate transaction. This includes overseeing inspections, repairs, and legal documentation that must be completed before a sale can be finalized. By coordinating with different professionals throughout the process, brokers ensure that all necessary steps are taken to protect their clients' interests and facilitate a smooth and successful transaction.
While brokers usually employ sales agents to work directly with clients and handle many of the previously mentioned tasks, they retain ultimate responsibility for all transactions that pass through their brokerage. In this capacity, they're often referred to as principal brokers. Principal brokers also assist with property showings, provide detailed market analysis, and guide buyers through the process of making competitive offers.
RESPONSIBILITIES
What Does a Real Estate Broker Do?
Successful real estate brokers need more than just keen market knowledge and the ability to negotiate deals. The outcome of their brokerage depends on their ability to attract potential clients, effectively manage employees, and maintain a firm grasp on their brokerage's financial matters.
Here are some of the most important responsibilities that go into running a successful brokerage:
- Creating property listings. Real estate brokers are responsible for writing compelling property listings that showcase the unique features and selling points of each property. They leverage their understanding of market trends and buyer preferences to highlight the most attractive aspects of a property and capture potential buyers' attention.
- Advertising available properties. To facilitate maximum exposure and reach the right audiences, real estate brokers use a variety of advertising methods. These include online platforms, social media, print media, and other marketing channels to promote their properties.
- Taking photographs of properties. Visual representation plays a major role in garnering excitement from potential buyers. Real estate brokers take high-quality photographs of properties to create appealing listings and marketing materials.
- Scheduling open houses and showings. Real estate brokers coordinate open houses and showings to give future buyers an opportunity to see the property in person. They manage appointments, organize property tours, and create a welcoming environment to help clients make informed decisions.
- Helping clients determine their property needs and budget. Real estate brokers have to nurture an intimate understanding of their clients' specific needs and financial capabilities. Through in-depth consultations, brokers help clients decide on details like location, size, amenities, and budget. If needed, brokers may consult with government departments like the U.S. Department of State regarding mortgage loans or subsidies.
Where Does a Real Estate Broker Work?
Real estate brokers operate in various settings. They can choose to work as self-employed professionals, establishing their own independent real estate business, which allows them the freedom to set their own schedules, define their business strategies, and build their brand.
Alternatively, brokers can work within established real estate agencies, collaborating with other professionals, benefiting from established networks and resources, and accessing a wider range of listings. They also work at rental and leasing companies, assisting clients in finding suitable properties to rent or lease.
Brokers can also be employed by property management firms to oversee the operations and maintenance of real estate assets, ensuring efficient property management. Additionally, licensed brokers can work as associate brokers, meaning they work as an agent under an existing brokerage. In all these settings, real estate brokers provide their expertise to clients, guiding them through the real estate market and ensuring successful transactions.
EDUCATION & BEST DEGREES
How Do I Become a Real Estate Broker?
The journey to becoming a real estate broker involves a combination of education, experience, and licensure. Here are the steps you should take to pursue this career:
1. Consider getting a bachelor’s degree in business or finance.
While a bachelor's degree is not always a requirement to become a real estate broker, having a degree in business or finance should provide you with a strong foundation of knowledge and skills that can benefit your career. The coursework in these degrees covers topics such as economics, marketing, accounting, and real estate principles.
2. Complete a state-approved real estate sales course.
Most states require individuals to complete a state-approved real estate sales course to become a real estate professional. These courses impart knowledge about real estate laws, practices, contracts, and ethics. The duration and content of the course vary depending on your state's requirements.
3. Pass your state's real estate agent licensing exam.
After completing the real estate sales course, you must pass your state's licensing exam. This exam tests your knowledge of real estate principles, laws, and practices. Once you pass, you'll receive your real estate license, allowing you to work under a licensed broker's supervision.
4. Obtain work experience as a real estate agent or salesperson.
Practical experience is an important step to becoming a real estate broker. Working as a listing agent provides valuable insights, builds networks, and strengthens your understanding of the buying and selling process.
5. Get certified in real estate.
While not required, obtaining professional certifications in real estate demonstrates expertise and commitment to the field. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) offers certifications like Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) and Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager (CRB), which typically require experience, education, and passing an exam.
6. Complete a state-approved real estate broker course.
To qualify for the real estate broker licensure, you’ll need to complete a state-approved real estate broker course. This course delves deeper into advanced topics such as real estate law, finance, property management, and brokerage operations.
7. Pass the real estate broker exam.
After completing the real estate broker course, you'll take the exam specific to your state. It typically covers a broader range of topics and assesses your understanding of complex real estate concepts, ethics, and broker responsibilities. Passing the exam will grant you the real estate broker license, allowing you to operate independently and open your own brokerage.
Best Degrees for a Real Estate Broker
Business
Marketing – B.S.
For those who want to lead brands and steer consumer markets:...
For those who want to lead brands and steer consumer markets:
- Time: 60% of graduates finish within 19 months.
- Tuition: $3,755 per 6-month term.
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Skills for your résumé you will learn in this program include:
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Marketing is a creative and exciting field—and one where an undergraduate degree will open better opportunities.
Business
Supply Chain and Operations Management - B.S.
This online supply chain and operations management program will prepare...
This online supply chain and operations management program will prepare you for real-world experiences in business.
- Time: 61% of graduates finish similar programs within 19 months.
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- Courses: 36 courses in this program.
Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:
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Business
Accounting – B.S.
Have a knack for numbers or fine-tuning finances?...
Have a knack for numbers or fine-tuning finances?
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Skills for your résumé you will learn in this program include:
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Take your first step toward CPA certification and learn how to use GAAP, ledgers, and journals.
Business
Finance – B.S.
This online finance program is career-focused so you will gain relevant...
This online finance program is career-focused so you will gain relevant industry skills.
- Time: 62% of graduates finish similar programs within 24 months
- Tuition: $3,755 per 6-month term
- Courses: 41 courses in this program
Some careers and jobs this business degree will prepare you for:
- Management
- Accounting
- Finance
- Spreadsheets
- Financial Analysis
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The competency-based model at WGU allows you to move as quickly as you can master the material, and do your coursework on your schedule. Flexibility is key with the B.S. in finance at WGU.
Business
Supply Chain Fundamentals Certificate – School of Business
Boost your résumé and gain valuable experience with a supply chain...
Boost your résumé and gain valuable experience with a supply chain fundamentals certificate from the School of Business.
- Time: 6 months from start to finish.
- Cost: $2,500 for the certificate.
- Courses: 4 courses total in this program.
This program is designed for individuals who are ready to take their supply chain experience to the next level and become a front-line leader in their organization.
Whether you want to advance your career in this field, or you're just getting started, a supply chain fundamentals certificate can help you be ready for your next career step. You'll be prepared to work in a variety of industries including:
- Startups
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- E-Commerce
How Much Does a Real Estate Broker Make?
$63,060
Real estate brokers have the potential to earn a significant income, primarily through commissions earned from real estate transactions. The actual earnings hinge on factors like years of experience, location, market conditions, and individual performance.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for real estate brokers in May 2023 was $63,060. However, this figure can vary significantly depending on the aforementioned various factors. The true earning potential for real estate brokers is incredibly broad.
With salaries ranging from around $30,000 to $160,000 per year or more, real estate brokers stand to make an attractive income depending on some important factors. The lower end of the income spectrum may reflect entry-level or part-time positions, while experienced brokers operating in lucrative markets usually earn more.
Commissions are a percentage of the transaction value and are typically split between the broker and the brokerage. The commission structure may vary, but it is common for brokers to earn a percentage of the sale price when representing buyers or sellers. This means that the more transactions a broker successfully facilitates, the higher their income potential.
What Is the Job Outlook?
2%
The BLS states that employment of real estate brokers is projected to grow by 2% from 2023 to 2033. This growth will be driven by factors such as population expansion, increasing real estate transactions, and the ongoing demand for professionals well versed in property transactions.
Approximately 46,000 job openings for real estate brokers are projected each year on average over the decade. This encompasses both new positions and those resulting from retirements or career transitions. While the industry offers promising opportunities, the competition remains significant. Aspiring brokers can enhance their prospects by acquiring a strong skill set, building a professional network, and staying up to date on industry trends.
SKILLS
What Skills Does a Real Estate Broker Need?
Real estate brokers need a versatile skill set to thrive in the competitive and ever-evolving real estate industry. To effectively serve clients and navigate the complexities of property transactions, real estate brokers must possess diverse skills, including the following:
- Written and verbal communication skills, including presenting information
- Strong negotiating skills
- Marketing knowledge
- Analytical and research skills
- Understanding of legal matters
- Leadership skills
By continuously honing and developing these skills, brokers can differentiate themselves, provide exceptional service to their clients, and build a successful real estate career.
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