Are you dreaming of a career that offers financial freedom without demanding every waking hour of your day? You aren’t alone. Many aspiring agents are drawn to real estate for the potential to earn a significant income while maintaining flexibility for family, hobbies, or other jobs. But the big question remains: Is a part-time real estate agent salary enough to make the leap worth it?
The short answer is yes—but there’s more to the story. Your earnings depend on strategy, market conditions, and how effectively you use your time. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what you can expect to earn, the factors that influence that number, and actionable steps to maximize your income as a part-time agent.
Let’s explore the potential of your new career path.
Key Takeaways
- Hours Matter, But Strategy Wins: While working more hours generally correlates with higher income, 1 in 8 agents who work fewer than 20 hours still earn up to $149,000.
- Niche Down to Level Up: Specializing in high-value niches like luxury or commercial real estate can significantly boost part-time earnings.
- Leverage Technology for Efficiency: Using modern tools such as CRM software, virtual tours, and digital marketing can help you manage your time more effectively and close deals faster, even with limited availability.
- Build a Strong Network: Cultivating meaningful relationships through referrals, social media, and community involvement can open doors to lucrative opportunities and steady client streams, amplifying your part-time success.
Part-time Real Estate Agent Income
One of the most common myths about real estate is that you have to work 60 hours a week to make a living. While full-time agents often earn more due to volume, part-time agents can still generate impressive income streams.
Recent data from a 2025 survey of Colibri Real Estate alumni reveals a clear correlation between hours worked and income earned. However, it also highlights that efficiency and strategy can drive strong earnings, even on a part-time schedule.
Annual income by hours worked
- Less than 20 Hours a Week: For many, real estate is a “side hustle.” Nearly two-thirds of agents in this category report earning under $25,000 annually. However, about 1 in 8 manage to crack the code, reaching up to $149,000 while working limited hours.
- 20-39 Hours a Week: This “part-time plus” schedule results in income rising significantly. While many earn between $25,000 and $50,000, more than 1 in 3 report six-figure incomes—with some earning up to $149,000 and others exceeding $200,000.
Other Factors that Impact Part-time Real Estate Agent Income
It’s not just the hours you dedicate that shape your earning potential. Our survey identified several additional factors that influence how much you can earn as a real estate agent.
1. Your local real estate market
The stronger your market, the more likely you’ll make top dollar as a part-time real estate agent. High-demand areas with higher property values naturally lead to larger commissions. For example, selling three homes a year in a luxury market could net you more than selling ten properties in a lower-cost area.
2. Your real estate niche
Your niche can significantly impact your earnings. Our survey asked real estate agents to report their income, and agents specializing in investment properties consistently reported higher earnings than those in other niches. Investment properties tend to generate larger commissions due to the potential for repeat business.
For part-time real estate agents, choosing the right niche is even more critical since you’ll have less time to dedicate compared to full-time agents. If you want to maximize your income, consider focusing on investment properties or think strategically about your niche before committing.
3. How long you’ve been in real estate
Gaining momentum in real estate takes time, and as a part-time real estate agent, your initial income might be sparse. But here’s the good news: Our research indicates that agents see significant and consistent gains in their pay the longer they stay in the business.
State-Specific Income Data
While specific salary data fluctuates year to year, location remains a massive driver of income potential. States with higher costs of living and booming housing markets generally offer higher commission checks.
According to recent trends, New York, California, Hawaii, and Massachusetts often top the lists of states with the highest average agent incomes. Conversely, states with lower property values may require a higher volume of sales to match those earnings.
If you’re considering a part-time career, research your specific state’s average commission rates and home prices to set realistic goals. Use our commission calculator to learn how many deals you need to close to meet your income goals.
Pros and Cons of Being a Part-Time Real Estate Agent
Before you dive in, it is important to weigh the benefits against the challenges.
Pros
- Flexibility: You set your own schedule, making it easier to balance family, school, or another job.
- Low Barrier to Entry: Compared with other high-earning careers, the time and cost to get licensed are relatively low.
- Unlimited Earning Potential: Unlike a salaried job, your income is not capped. You get out what you put in.
Cons
- Inconsistent Income: Commissions are not guaranteed, and you may go months without a paycheck, especially when starting.
- Competition: You’ll be competing with full-time agents who may have more availability for clients.
- Client Demands: Real estate does not always stick to a 9-to-5 schedule. Clients may need you on evenings or weekends.
Steps to Becoming a Part-Time Real Estate Agent
Ready to start your journey? Here is the roadmap to launching your part-time career.
- Research State Requirements: Every state has different rules regarding pre-licensing education hours and exams.
- Complete Pre-Licensing Education: Choose a flexible, state-approved school like Colibri Real Estate that allows you to learn at your own pace.
- Pass the Licensing Exam: Use exam prep tools to ensure you pass on the first try.
- Find a Sponsoring Broker: Look for a brokerage that supports part-time agents and offers mentorship.
- Join the MLS and Local Board: This gives you access to property listings and legal forms.
- Start Networking: Tell everyone you know that you are in real estate!
Tips for Maximizing Earnings as a Part-time Real Estate Agent
What does it take to be a high earner as a part-time real estate agent? Let’s explore some invaluable tips to help you maximize your venture into this field.
Efficient time management
Balancing part-time work with other commitments requires exceptional time management skills. Use tools like calendar apps and Customer Relationship Management (CRMs) to keep track of leads and appointments so nothing slips through the cracks.
Leverage your network
Your personal and professional network can be a goldmine for referrals and potential clients. Inform friends, family, and acquaintances about your real estate services. Don’t hesitate to ask for referrals, either.
Specialize wisely
Consider focusing on a specific niche within the real estate market. You can position yourself as an expert in a particular area by specializing. This makes it easier to attract clients seeking your unique expertise.
Stay tech-savvy
Embrace technology to streamline your processes and reach a wider audience. Utilize social media platforms, online listings, and virtual tours. These tools will help you showcase properties and engage with potential clients.
Learn how to use AI tools for real estate agents by completing a Real Estate AI Specialist certification.
Embrace continuous learning
As a part-time agent, committing to learning about the latest industry trends and best practices can set you apart. Explore continuing education courses to expand your knowledge base and keep your license current. Attend workshops, webinars, and seminars to stay updated and enhance your skills.
Provide exceptional service
Your reputation as an agent is invaluable. Make it a priority to deliver exceptional service to every client. Positive word-of-mouth can lead to a steady stream of referrals.
Collaborate with full-timers
Partnering with full-time agents on larger projects can provide you with valuable experience and exposure. These collaborations can also lead to shared clientele, further expanding your network.
Is Being a Part-time Real Estate Agent the Right Job for You?
Knowing how much money you’ll make as a part-time real estate agent can be essential to discover if it’s a path you’ll want to pursue. If you’re looking for a side gig in real estate or a way to keep busy without committing to the scheduling demands of a full-time career, you might find fulfillment in being your own boss and helping people find their dream homes, which is something every real estate agent gets to experience.
The notion that success in real estate is reserved solely for full-time professionals is being challenged by the growing cohort of part-time real estate agents. By carefully managing your time and utilizing tools to your advantage, you can maximize your earning potential while allowing yourself the flexibility of part-time work.
Your real estate career is calling. Let’s answer it together.
No matter how many hours you plan to dedicate to your real estate career, you must first earn your real estate license. Learn more about becoming a real estate agent by connecting with a trusted real estate school – Colibri Real Estate. Colibri offers all the courses you need to get licensed and stay licensed, and we offer a Pass or Don’t Pay Guarantee.
Disclaimer: This guide is for general informational purposes only, based on a September 2025 survey of Colibri Real Estate alumni and publicly available industry sources. While Colibri Real Estate strives for accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, reliability, or applicability of the information. Earnings and outcomes vary widely based on factors like location, experience, and market conditions and should not be considered guarantees. This guide does not constitute professional advice. Users should consult additional sources for personalized guidance.
