Deciding on a new career path comes with plenty of questions, and one of the biggest is, “How much can I earn?” If you’re considering becoming a real estate agent, it’s natural to wonder about income potential.
The good news is that a career in real estate offers both flexibility and the possibility of high earnings. In this guide, we break down the average real estate agent salary, what new and experienced agents can expect, and how to increase your earning potential.
Key Takeaways
- Real Estate Agent Salary Varies by Experience and Effort: Income ranges from $20,000 for new agents to $500,000+ for top producers, with the national average around $58,960.
- Full-Time Agents Earn More Than Part-Time Agents: Colibri Real Estate alumni report average earnings of $153,000 for full-time agents compared to $30,000 for those working part-time.
- Multiple Factors Influence Earning Potential: Location, brokerage support, marketing strategies, and consistent lead generation all play a role in how much agents can earn.
- Real Estate Is A Flexible, High-Growth Career: With unlimited income potential and personal fulfillment, real estate is an ideal path for motivated individuals.
What Is the Average Real Estate Agent Salary?
According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average real estate agent salary in the United States is approximately $58,960 per year. However, real estate is a commission-based profession, meaning income varies significantly depending on how many deals you close and the price of the homes you sell.
The wide range makes it important to understand what impacts earnings and how you can position yourself for success. For example, in a 2024 survey of Colibri Real Estate School alumni, full-time agents report making $153,000.
Learn more by downloading the full report.
Real Estate Agent Salary by Career Stage
Your earning potential can grow significantly as you gain expertise, build a strong network, and refine your skills. By focusing on professional development and staying informed about industry trends, you can take proactive steps to achieve your income goals and advance your career.
First-year real estate agent salary
In your first year as a real estate agent, income can vary widely. Many first-year agents earn between $20,000 and $50,000, depending on their level of commitment, market conditions, and the support they receive from their brokerage.
Give yourself time to learn the business. After all, your first year or two are learning years, where you’re building your network, gaining experience, and becoming familiar with the local market.
Established real estate agent salary
Once you’ve got a few years under your belt, your income potential increases. By this point, many agents have developed a client base, built referral networks, and refined their marketing strategies. With more experience, agents are often able to work smarter and close higher-value transactions.
According to the Colibri Real Estate survey, alumni with 11 to 25 years of experience report an average annual income of $363,700.
Top-Producing Real Estate Agent Salary
Top real estate agents can earn $500,000+ per year. These agents usually specialize in luxury properties, manage teams, or focus on commercial real estate.
Their success comes from years of experience, strategic marketing, and high-value networks. While these earnings aren’t typical for every agent, they’re entirely possible with the right drive and support.
Part-Time vs. Full-Time Real Estate Agent Income
One of the great advantages of becoming a real estate agent is flexibility. Some professionals choose to start part-time or remain part-time while balancing other responsibilities.
Part-time real estate agents typically earn $30,000 annually, according to the Colibri survey. This option works well for parents, retirees, or career changers testing the waters.
Full-time agents, on the other hand, often earn significantly more, thanks to a higher volume of deals and more time to focus on marketing and lead generation.
Other Factors That Influence Real Estate Agent Salary
Several factors can affect how much a real estate agent earns, including the following:
- Location: Agents in high-cost-of-living areas often earn more due to higher home prices.
- Brokerage: Commission splits and brokerage fees vary. Some brokerages offer more extensive training and support, which can help new agents succeed more quickly.
- Marketing Efforts: Agents who invest in online presence, social media, and local networking often see better results.
- Lead Generation: Successful agents consistently generate and convert leads.
- Market Conditions: Economic health, interest rates, and housing supply affect the real estate market.
Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions and maximize your earnings potential.
Why Real Estate Is a High-Potential Career
Real estate offers more than just a paycheck. It’s a career that provides:
- Entrepreneurship: Be your own boss and control your schedule.
- Unlimited Income Potential: The more effort you put in, the more you can earn.
- Work-Life Balance: Many agents enjoy flexible hours and remote work.
- Personal Fulfillment: Helping clients find their dream home or make a profitable sale is deeply rewarding.
If you’re looking for a career where hard work pays off and no two days are the same, real estate could be your perfect fit.
How to Launch a Lucrative Career in Real Estate
At Colibri Real Estate School, we specialize in preparing aspiring agents for success. Here’s how we support you:
- Online Licensing Courses: Learn at your own pace with state-approved pre-licensing courses.
- Exam Prep Tools: Access practice exams, study guides, and other exam prep tools to help you pass on the first try.
- Career Support: We offer ongoing professional training and CE courses to help you grow.
Our mission is to empower you with the knowledge and tools you need to thrive as a real estate professional.
Your Earning Potential Starts with the Right Foundation
The salary of a real estate agent can vary, but one thing is clear: your income potential is in your hands. Whether you’re just starting out or considering a career change, real estate offers flexibility, growth, and financial opportunity.
Ready to take the first step? Explore Colibri Real Estate School’s flexible online courses and start your journey to becoming a successful real estate agent today.
Disclaimer: This guide is for general informational purposes only, based on an August 2024 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.
