My first two years

Well, here I am on my second year in the industry. I've had total of 8 transactions since I started in the spring of 2004. Not the great start I had hoped for. Had such high expectations of making easy money selling real estate. Not the case. It is hard work trying to drum up business. Competition is fierce ...lots of new agents and veteran agents vying for the same business. In my opinion, passing the real estate exam is easier than actually being an agent. What an eye-opening experience. For all of you thinking of a career move to this industry, my advice: have sufficient "rainy day" savings account because in your first year alone you will spend money on seminars, classes, professional dues, memberships, marketing, supplies, and tools of the trade. There will be more money going out than coming in. A bit frustrating, truth be told. So why am I still in it? I thrive on the challenges of becoming a successful agent. I love the flexibility of managing my schedule for the day. I love the fact that I can put my family time ahead of work. This has given me the opportunity to attend my children's sports activities without feeling guilty about leaving work early to get there on time. I used to work in the IT industry. There were long hours at work and never seem to have enough time for family. I am happier now than I ever was. Fortunately, my husband's salary is sufficient enough to sustain the family when I do not make a sale. Otherwise, I would not be able to afford the luxury of not having a pay check. It's also great that I have a supportive hubbie....although he'd be much happier if I were earning some money for the occassional splurging.

2006 is here and my business plan still needs tweaking. Part of the tasks I set out to accomplish is to set up a blog that will provide information about all things real estate. I hope this year will be successful for all of us. Here's to 2006!