The short answer to that question is easy: to make lots of money and be my own boss! Of course we know that making a lot of money as a REALTOR® requires hard work and dedication, not to mention a good moral compass. The last several years have been effective in weeding out those that were only in it for the money. Most of us who actively pursue real estate on a full time basis have weathered the storm and are doing whatever it takes to remain productive and successful in this economy.
As for being my own boss, that is a great perk, but funny thing is, as a REALTOR® and independent contractor, I am at the beck and call of my customers. The broker has an opinion on how I do business, as does the state of Florida. Moreover, my family is affected by my choices and that means they have input as well. So while I am my own "boss", I am decidedly not my own boss!
But here is the compelling reason I became a REALTOR®: I like the feeling I get when I come home from a closing knowing that I have improved someones life by my actions. I like creating opportunities for people to realize their dream of home ownership, whether they are seeking their first home, a move-up home, retirement home, or the need to sell their home due to life changes.
Money aside, there is a true sense of empowerment that comes with being a REALTOR®. Despite the ebb and flow of demands around you - from buyers, sellers, lenders and appraisers - there is a sense of self that changes as you achieve success in real estate.
This post has been authored by Eric Slifkin, REALTOR® serving South Florida's Treasure Coast. You can reach me at 888-288-1765, or visit my Web site at http://www.TreasureCoastHomeSales.com. As your resource for information on new or resale homes throughout the Treasure Coast, please be sure to contact me about any home you may find on the Web, yard sign or ad and I will research the property, arrange showings and handle all the details.
Well said Eric...it is not always about the money. Getting the gooood feeling when you help someone can be very rewarding in itself.
Eric,
i agree with your comments, since i have been in the lending biz for a long time i have found it hard to find really good agents that really look after there clients, i guess it is the 80/20 rule. where 20% of the people are the cream of the crop and that is like any biz.
I agree Eric, that pretty much sums it up for me as well.
Thanks Dennis. I think most would agree.
That is the same for me. I got in to make a living but the feeling you get when you help someone is phenomenal.