Career Snapshot: Real Estate Agent
- Median Pay (Real Estate Brokers & Sales Agents, BLS 2024): $52,690 per year
- Typical Range: $40,000–$80,000, with higher earnings possible depending on sales volume, market, and commission structure (Indeed, 2025; Salary.com, 2025)
- Top Earners: $100,000+ in competitive or high-cost markets
- Job Growth (2023–2033): +3% projected, about as fast as average (BLS, 2024)
- Annual Openings: ~51,700 across the U.S.
- Key Insight: Earnings vary significantly because income is often commission-based. Agents with strong networks, marketing skills, and local expertise can build six-figure incomes.
Essential Skills for Success
- Real estate law and regulatory compliance
- Client service and relationship building
- Negotiation and sales strategies
- Market research, pricing, and property valuation
- Marketing and digital advertising for listings
- Business management and entrepreneurship
- Financial literacy and mortgage basics
- Communication, presentation, and networking
- Time management and self-motivation
Education Pathways
- Typical Route: High school diploma followed by real estate pre-licensing courses and a state licensing exam.
- Alternative Paths: Certificates in sales, business, or property management provide useful skills before licensure.
- Continuous Learning: Ongoing professional development in marketing, finance, and local law is required to maintain licensure and stay competitive.
Credentials & Certifications
Available through SchoolDay Academy, powered by Coursera, the credential listed on the Real Estate Agent role page is:
Keller Williams Real Estate Agent Professional Certificate — 3 courses
Provides training in real estate fundamentals, client engagement, property transactions, and professional practices, developed by one of the largest real estate organizations in the world.
Related Career Pathways
- Real Estate Broker
- Property Manager
- Leasing Consultant
- Mortgage Loan Officer
- Real Estate Marketing Specialist
- Commercial Real Estate Analyst
How to Get Started
- Begin with SchoolDay Academy — Enroll in the Real Estate Sales Professional Certificate to gain essential knowledge in property transactions and client service.
- Meet State Licensing Requirements — Complete required pre-licensing courses and pass your state’s real estate licensing exam.
- Join a Brokerage — Start your career under an established broker to build experience, networks, and credibility.
- Build Your Client Base — Use marketing, networking, and digital platforms to attract and retain clients.
- Expand Your Expertise — Add specializations in commercial property, luxury homes, or property management to increase marketability.
Why SchoolDay Academy Recommends This Pathway
SchoolDay Academy recommends the Real Estate Agent pathway because it combines entrepreneurial independence with people-centered service—skills that empower learners to create their own opportunities.
- Strong Income Potential: Commission-based earnings allow motivated agents to scale their income.
- Flexible Career: Work independently or within brokerages across residential and commercial markets.
- Credential-First Training: The professional certificate provides a career-ready foundation.
- Perkins V Alignment: Develops financial literacy, communication, and client service skills critical to employability.
Conclusion
The Real Estate Agent Career Pathway empowers learners to build careers in property sales, marketing, and client service. With licensing, credentialing, and strong communication skills, students can launch into a flexible and rewarding profession.
Explore the Real Estate Agent Career Pathway on SchoolDay Academy and start building your future today.