.png)
Why Are You In Real Estate?
Quick Take:
Real estate is rewarding but challenging- Stay resilient, adapt, and prioritize your well-being. Redefine your "whys" as needed
Success is personal- Set your own goals and stay authentic. Work through setbacks, dust yourself off, and keep moving forward
Choose your clients wisely- Set clear boundaries and avoid unrealistic expectations
In dry seasons, keep prospecting- Stay engaged with your database and actively seek new opportunities
Stay consistent- The business will follow
Why Are You in Real Estate?
Whatever your reasons, you’re likely a multifaceted individual who enjoys achieving your goals while helping others accomplish theirs—buying or selling properties. Real estate is a fascinating industry, filled with highs of joy and prosperity and lows of challenge and uncertainty. It can be stressful but also deeply fulfilling. Nothing is permanent—embrace the ebb and flow of the job.
Most of us remember our first listing. Mine was about 135 miles from Seattle, near the Canadian border—four hours from home with moderate traffic. It came through a second-degree referral, and after covering gas, paying my mentor, my broker, both referral fees, and marketing, I ended up owing myself! But it sold. That single transaction taught me so much and led to two more buyers—who are still my clients today. Real estate can be surprising.
The Most Important Person in Your Business
The most important person in your business is you. Your clients will also benefit from having an agent who prioritizes their well-being. Whether you’re full-time or part-time, this job requires full commitment, but it doesn’t have to take over your life. Take breaks throughout your workday. Eat away from your desk (and not in the car), and walk around the block between appointments. Every step counts.
Success Is Personal
"Success" is often thrown around, but only you can define what it means for you. When things get rough—and they will, because that’s life—taking care of yourself will keep you going. Be kind to yourself. When things don’t go as expected, allow yourself to feel disappointed, work through the emotions, then dust yourself off and get back in the game. Real estate is an empowering but demanding career. It requires constant attention and dedication, but when managed well, it balances out.
Be Selective
I understand the desire to help every client no-matter-what, but sometimes that “what” can become too much. Learn when to walk away from difficult situations or clients who are unrealistic or unresponsive. Setting healthy boundaries and working with people who align with your values will help you stay motivated and successful in the long run.
Dry Season
If you hit a slow period (it happens), have a Plan B in case a commission check doesn’t come through fast enough. Look into programs that offer commission advances, and talk to your broker—they’ve rescued me in times of hardship. Nothing to be embarrassed about—Plan B’s helped put food on the table when I was a single mom, waiting for deals to close.
Offer Help and Build Relationships
When business is quiet, seek out new connections with lenders for referrals, visit new construction sites, or host open houses to meet prospective clients. Consider offering assistance to a busy colleague or team—not only does this keep you engaged with the market but it’s a great way to build relationships, which can sometimes lead to compensation or future collaborations.
Stay Focused
In real estate, there’s always something to learn and new opportunities to pursue. In every market condition, consistency is key. Stay visible and valuable to your clients by reaching out with useful content—market updates, complimentary home valuations, or tips for buyers and sellers. Keep learning. The business will follow.
By Claudia Castillo, a real estate agent and consultant with a passion for the industry and writing.
Learn more at castillocm.com
Comments