Most people think of real estate agents when they consider getting a career in this industry. However, the National Association of Realtors requires agents to get and renew their licenses every two years. Fortunately, you don’t have to be an agent to start a career in real estate.
5 Types of real estate jobs without license requirements
There are plenty of jobs in the real estate industry that don’t require a license. With that said, a real estate license can come in handy if you’re interested in selling properties in the future.
Here are five types of real estate jobs you may be interested in:
- Real Estate Investor: Anyone can invest in real estate without a license. They simply have to apply for a home loan online to buy a residential property. Depending on their skills, they may invest via crowdfunding or REITs, or flip or rent out their properties.
- Property Manager: As a property manager, you’ll be responsible for finding tenants, collecting rent, and maintaining the property. You don’t need any specific academic credentials, but courses and experience can help you get a job faster.
- Real Estate Consultant: Leasing agents or consultants are responsible for finding quality tenants for landlords. They’re in charge of marketing, drafting lease documents, tenant screening, and answering inquiries. They’re also called “real estate scouters.” While you don’t need a license, knowledge of the area is required for employment.
- Real Estate Courier: If you want to get into wholesaling but you don’t have enough experience, start as a courier. While they do take on most of the time-consuming and repetitive real estate tasks in a brokerage, you get to network with many professionals.
- Real Estate Developer: Developers plan, design, and renovate properties. They typically work with large teams and networks who help supply employees or maintain and build their properties. You’ll need a high level of real estate knowledge to succeed.
If you’re not interested in these careers, it’s also possible to become a wholesaler, house flipper, real estate assistant, marketing assistant, and real estate handyman without a license.
5 Tips to get a career in real estate without a license
A great resume and a bit of luck aren’t all you’ll need to start a career in real estate without a license. If you want to succeed in your career of choice, consider following these five tips.
1. Know what you’re good at
It’s very possible to learn the skills you need to move into any career, but you can adjust faster if you already know what you’re good at. For example, if you have writing skills, you could be a great marketer. Other skills are always necessary for this industry, such as negotiation skills.
2. Take a few courses
Say you want to become a real estate investor, but you’ve never invested in a single property. You should never jump in without taking a few courses first, or you could lose money. The more real estate knowledge you have going in, the more likely you are to find long-term success.
3. Find a mentor to shadow
Mentors can kickstart your professional development, help you clarify your goals, and keep you accountable for said goals. They can even teach you fundamental soft skills for your career and instill confidence in you. To find a mentor, search on social media or attend relevant events.
4. Bring in a business partner
Many real estate careers are flexible and allow you to be your own boss. If you’re nervous going at it alone, or you want someone more skilled than you to guide the way, consider finding a business partner. Make sure they have enough time and money to invest in your business.
5. Never stop networking
Networking can help you find a job much quicker than cold applying, and referrals can get you into a new industry right away. Take every opportunity to flex your people skills at conferences, seminars, and events, because you may find an industry professional who’s willing to help.
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