The Truths Other Recruiters Don’t Tell You About a Real Estate Career

When you hear about a career in real estate, it’s often painted as a dream job. Flexible hours, the potential to make six figures, and the joy of helping people find their dream homes—what’s not to love? But let’s pull back the curtain and talk about the realities of this career. There’s a reason not everyone who starts in real estate makes it. The truth is, while this career has its rewards, it’s also filled with challenges that most recruiters won’t tell you about. But I believe in being honest because the more prepared you are, the more successful you’ll be.

Flexibility and Money: Blessings or Burdens?

Yes, real estate offers flexibility, but that flexibility can easily become a trap. Without the discipline to structure your day and prioritize tasks, your career can quickly go off course. Real estate is not a 9-to-5 job, and that’s both its blessing and its curse. If you’re not careful, the very freedom you crave can lead to procrastination, missed opportunities, and ultimately, failure.

The potential to make good money in real estate is real, but it doesn’t happen overnight. Building a successful career takes time, effort, and a whole lot of hustle. If you’re in it just for the money, without a passion for the work or a plan for managing the highs and lows, you’ll find yourself frustrated and burnt out.

The Reality Behind Every Transaction

When people think of real estate, they often picture happy families moving into their dream homes. And yes, that’s part of it, but it’s not the whole story. As a REALTOR®, you’ll also work with people in the midst of difficult, even heartbreaking, situations. Divorce, death, financial hardship—these are all reasons why people buy or sell homes. Navigating these emotional landscapes requires empathy, patience, and resilience. It’s not always easy, but it’s a crucial part of the job.

Interviewing Brokerages: Finding the Right Fit

Here’s something you might not hear from other recruiters: You should interview multiple brokerages before deciding where to hang your license. Every brokerage has its strengths and weaknesses, and it’s important to find one that aligns with your goals and values. At CENTURY 21 ProLink, we’re confident in what we offer, but we also know that we’re not the perfect fit for everyone. By exploring your options, you’ll make a more informed decision and ultimately be happier with your choice.

The Bottom Line

A career in real estate can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s not without its challenges. Success requires discipline, emotional resilience, and a willingness to find the right environment for your growth. At CENTURY 21 ProLink, we believe in setting you up for success by being honest about what it takes to thrive in this industry. If you’re ready to face these truths head-on, we’d love to talk with you about joining our team. Give Cassie Risetter a call at 712-224-2300 or email at yourcareer@c21prolink.com.