Working As A Real Estate Agent Part-Time

Entering the real estate industry part-time is one of the most accessible ways to earn extra income and explore a potential career shift. With no prior experience required, it’s possible to get started simply by obtaining a license and completing basic training.

Many part-time agents begin while holding full-time jobs or managing family responsibilities, taking advantage of the flexibility to set their own schedules and work when it suits them. For those who are curious but cautious, part-time work offers a low-risk way to gain real-world experience and build a client base before committing to full-time real estate.

However, working part-time in real estate does come with its challenges. Initial costs for licensure, marketing, and association fees can add up, and balancing another job or personal life requires solid time management. Income is inconsistent and based entirely on commissions, but with strong systems, targeted marketing, and consistent effort, part-time agents can build a profitable side business. This path is ideal for self-starters who want to test the waters and gradually transition into a new professional chapter.

Why Work as a Part-Time Realtor?

A part-time real estate career lets you explore the field without committing fully. Whether you’re unsure about switching careers, or you want extra income without leaving your current job, it offers flexibility and a low-pressure entry point. If you have a full-time job, being a part-time agent gives you a foothold in the industry while minimizing risk.

This setup gives you real-world exposure and lets you decide whether the work aligns with your interests and strengths. You’ll also gain valuable industry insight and build your network slowly—without the pressure of immediate success.

Pros and Cons

There are clear benefits to working as a part-time real estate agent, especially around scheduling freedom and supplemental income. You can meet with clients in the evenings or on weekends, and the income from even a few closed deals a year can help reduce debt or boost your savings.

That said, there are costs and sacrifices to consider. Licensing and association fees add up quickly. If you’re juggling another job, your free time will likely become work time. You may also miss out on networking events or training opportunities held during business hours. Ultimately, success depends on how well you manage your time, finances, and expectations.

Balancing Part-Time Real Estate with a Full-Time Job

Balancing real estate with a full-time job means being intentional with your time. You’ll need to set clear boundaries and designate certain hours each week for your real estate activities. Treat it like a business and hold yourself accountable.

Technology can help lighten the load. Use a digital calendar to block time, and set up a CRM to track leads and follow-ups. Virtual assistants can handle small tasks, and automation can streamline client communication. Just be ready to use evenings and weekends wisely, and communicate your new schedule with family or roommates to avoid friction.

How Much Can You Earn as a Part-Time Agent?

Earnings range widely depending on your market, broker support, and personal hustle. National data suggests median annual earnings for part-time agents are around $20,000 to $37,000, depending on the source and level of experience.

Your income will depend on how many deals you close, how your commissions are structured, and whether you supplement income with side gigs like staging or mortgage brokering. Networking, local market trends, and your availability also play a big role in how much you can earn.

Getting Started

To begin, you’ll need to get licensed in your state. This usually requires a pre-licensing course and passing a state exam. Some states also require background checks or fingerprinting.

Once you’re licensed, you’ll need to align with a broker. Shop around—some brokerages are more part-time-friendly than others. Ask about training, mentorship, commission splits, and fees. After signing on, the next step is marketing yourself. Set up a basic website, get business cards, and announce your new venture to your network.

Systems for Success

As a part-time agent, your systems will make or break your business. Start with a CRM to track all your contacts, appointments, and follow-ups. Popular options include Follow Up Boss, HubSpot, or LionDesk.

Lead capture is another critical system. This could be as simple as a contact form on your site or more robust strategies like Facebook Lead Ads or QR codes on open house flyers. Once you have prospects, a simple marketing plan—blending social media with local networking—can help keep your pipeline full.

Time-saving tools like Calendly can help you avoid back-and-forth scheduling. The goal is to automate and delegate what you can so you can focus on what really matters: connecting with clients and closing deals.

Time Management Tips

You won’t succeed as a part-time agent if you treat it like a hobby. Prioritize tasks that generate income, such as showing homes or following up with leads. Batch administrative tasks together to reduce distractions.

Set realistic goals. A few hours per week spent well can make a big difference. But be honest about the time you can commit, and make sure you schedule downtime to avoid burnout. Most client activity happens after work hours, so plan accordingly.

Transitioning to Full-Time

As your part-time success grows, transitioning to full-time becomes more viable. Start by gradually increasing your hours, reinvesting your income in marketing or tools, and letting your contacts know you’re making the shift.

A strong pipeline and a supportive brokerage can make the leap smoother. If you’re consistent and strategic, you can build a full-time career rooted in the experience and credibility you’ve already earned.

Becoming a part-time real estate agent can be a rewarding way to earn extra income, develop professional skills, and test a new career path without upending your current one. With the right systems, schedule, and broker support, you can build a profitable business that may eventually grow into a full-time endeavor.

If you’re ready to explore this path, reach out to The Ocean School of Real Estate to start your training and licensure journey.